The key to PES 2008 is a proprietary adaptive AI
system entitled Teamvision. Unique to the Konami
game, Teamvision is a sophisticated AI programming
that learns and adapts according to an
individual's style of play. As such, it will learn
new ways to build attacks and to counter specific
movements and previous attacking or defensive
errors, ensuring games are more in line with the
tactical but flowing nature of the real thing.
With the Pro Evolution Soccer
series renowned for its fluid, realistic gameplay,
the new game builds on the implementation of
Teamvision with additional key advances. As with
previous releases since its inception in 1996, the
ball is again treated as a separate entity, with
the timing of shots entirely down to the player,
while the new AI ensures that defenders work to
close down space and block efforts on goal.
Similarly, distribution of passes works along the
same lines, with players using the space available
to them to switch the ball. Close control has also
been enhanced with more control when dribbling the
ball, and a number of subtle moves added to bypass
defenders and move the ball into space.
Working in conjunction with the
Teamvision system, every aspect of Pro Evolution
Soccer 2008's on-field play has been reworked and
fine-tuned to create the balanced and strategic
play of a high stakes match. Set-pieces have been
improved, with full control given over the number
of players and the position of the defensive wall.
A wider range of set piece options are also
available to make use of specific talents within
the team.
Player detail has been taken to
incredible levels with full facial animation and
the high-definition detail afforded by the
hardware used to show full movement and subtle
details to the various kits during the course of a
match. All 'Next Gen' versions will also benefit
from an extensive Edit mode, allowing gamers to
customise their PES experience.
