Both contenders are well-established: EA Sports’ annual blockbuster, FIFA, remains one of the best-selling games globally. Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), now branded as eFootball, continues as the persistent challenger. As is tradition, we present a comparative analysis to address the common question:
Which football game should I buy in 2020 (2021)?
Note: eFootball PES 2021 Season Update retains its naming convention due to utilizing the same base game as its predecessor, eFootball PES 2020, albeit with updated player rosters and team data. This decision is likely attributable to Konami’s development of a new game engine tailored for next-generation consoles.
Let’s begin the analysis!
Graphics
FIFA 21 secures a relatively straightforward victory in this category against PES 21, which, in essence, is based on older technology. EA delivers polished animations, realistic and detailed player models, and an overall presentation aligned with contemporary standards. Conversely, PES 2021 largely retains familiar, less refined menus, and this iteration lacks visual enhancements. The graphics resemble those of the previous generation, exhibiting a wax-like quality, although with improved resolution and decent animations on PS4 Pro. The only notable advantage for PES lies in its slightly improved crowd visuals compared to its competitor.
FIFA 21 establishes an early lead, 1-0.
Sound
This category proves more difficult to assess. FIFA typically boasts more dynamic commentary, but in FIFA 21, repetition becomes noticeable, and the commentary often lacks specificity. PES 21, in contrast, exhibits slight improvements, with tighter and more accurate play-by-play commentary, according to our testing team. The surround sound effect within the stadium environments is comparable in quality across both titles.
No definitive winner emerges in this category, with PES 21 narrowly leveling the score to 1-1.
Gameplay
Gameplay is paramount. While visual fidelity and authentic player likenesses (an area where FIFA typically excels) are important, the overall experience hinges on the quality and enjoyment of the core gameplay. Given its significance, this category carries double weight in our assessment.
Beginning with eFootball PES 2021, the game retains the finesse and precision that has defined the series throughout the 2000s. It emphasizes skill, accuracy, and realistic scoring opportunities. As in real football, unpredictable events can occur; crosses may inadvertently find the net, and goalkeepers might commit errors. PES delivers a football experience that prioritizes strategic play and challenging defensive maneuvers, demanding skillful attacks to create scoring chances.
FIFA 21 has been characterized by some reviewers as “arcade football” with an emphasis on high-scoring matches. Indeed, goals are plentiful; one of our test matches concluded with a score of 10-7, a result rarely seen in hockey, let alone professional football. However, this isn’t necessarily due to exceptional attacking prowess in FIFA 21. Rather, it stems from a perceived breakdown in defensive mechanics. Defensive play often feels ineffective, with limited engagement from defenders positioned ahead of the attacker, leaving the goalkeeper exposed. Fast attackers can exploit this weakness, facing minimal resistance as the defense retreats. This can create a sense of imbalance and a lack of control. The phenomenon is sometimes attributed to “scripting,” where the game’s algorithm dynamically adjusts difficulty levels to influence match outcomes. While EA denies the existence of such scripting, there are noticeable inconsistencies in the level of control offered in FIFA 21.
Winner 2020 (2021) – PES eFootball 2021
eFootball PES 21 secures a decisive victory this year, with a final score of 3-1. The value of updated team rosters is subjective and depends on whether you already own the previous iteration. However, if you do not own PES 2020, then the asking price represents exceptional value for a well-executed game. FIFA 21 is encouraged to continue refining its vision of high-octane, attack-oriented gameplay, but not at the expense of core footballing principles. The defensive experience proved frustrating. While enhanced attacking capabilities are welcome, players should retain a reasonable opportunity to effectively counter their progress.
Footnote: FIFA 21 will receive a complimentary patch for next-generation consoles, namely the Xbox Series S/X and PlayStation 5. PES 2021 has no such patch confirmed, owing to the reasons outlined in the review’s introduction. A full assessment of these next-gen versions will feature in our dedicated console reviews, coming soon.
