Most people know that the eternal battle isn’t good Vs evil or red Vs blue, but is actually FIFA Vs PES. Only the most rabid PES fanboy would fail to see that over the past couple of years EA’s juggernaut has come off the subs bench played a neat one-two and has gone 2-0 up. A short while ago we had a look at the wealth of improvements that EA are looking to cram in to FIFA 10, and now it’s Konami’s turn to spill the beans.

First up is the news that Liverpool’s Fernando Torres will be joining Barcelona’s Lionel Messi on the cover, “Everyone knows that when it comes to football simulation, Konami’s PES series is by far the most realistic title available” said Torres in a Konami press release, whom obviously has never having played FIFA 09. The improvements thankfully just don’t stop at the games cover though as Konami have been tinkering with the actual game as well:

Gameplay: New zonal defending intuitively covers spaces meaning players constantly need to look for new ways to attack. The game’s referees have also been reworked with smarter AI elements allowing them to make more balanced calls during matches.

Improved Visuals: PES 2010 has undergone a major visual revamp, with improved player likeness’s and animations even closer to those of real life players. Several elements have been reworked with the dribbling turning and kicking animations greatly enhanced, there is also a notable change in pace when a player passes the ball from a standing position rather than from within a run.

Match Day Atmosphere: Crowd reactions to the on field action are now more varied, with all new chants and cheers. The subtle difference between home and away matches will also be reproduced, with the crowd reacting to specific situations in a game either showing their disdain or pleasure as fouls are committed and goals scored.

AI: Midfielders and defenders now work together to cover open space and close down attacks, meaning that cover can be provided for low ranked defenders. This also has the effect of removing soft goals, thus returning PES to its simulation roots.

Individual Play Characteristics: PES 2010 introduces a new system wherein the individual attacking and defending nature of the players is integral to the way they play. Each player enjoys unique AI tied into their best abilities, with this reflected in the actions of their teammates – i.e. if a player who is known to be a good crosser of the ball is in possession, more players will flood the penalty area to receive it.

Obviously there is a corporate spin in there and the real key will be how these improvements are implemented, but what do you think, can PES recapture former glories or is FIFA on a roll? Let us know in the comments below, personally I’m disappointed to see no mention of overhauling the shambles of online play which is utterly dreadful at the moment.

Source: PES 2010 Official Site.