Out Today: PES 2018 - Footy Headlines Review
Sep 14, 2017, by Pat
Over the past few weeks, we had the chance to give the new Pro Evolution Soccer 2018, which is out today, an extensive run, first with the Demo and later with a test sample that Konami was kind enough to supply us with.
Gameplay
First off, for all those who have played the Beta and Demo before it, it's safe to say that not too much has changed in regards to those two early versions of PES 2018 in terms of gameplay.
Evaluating the gameplay is a bit tricky we thought as everything felt too restricted and rigid on the default passing assistance level 1 - putting it on zero, which is more manual but not 'full manual' makes it a pretty different affair altogether. So, if you felt similarly about the default setup, it might be worth giving that a shot.
In more general terms, PES 2018's gameplay feels like a clear improvement over its predecessor, with a lot of new, more realistic animations and added unpredictability. It's a game which can be played successfully in a lot of different ways, from counter attacks to possession football or a long ball tactic - something that definitely could not be said about most recently released football simulations and recalls Pro Evo's mid-2000s heydays.
Unfortunately, a lot of the bad points from years past haven't been eradicated. These include the odd tactical awareness and defensive positioning, both with human and CPU controlled teams, as well as the rather strange and too often unrealistically playing CPU. Often it felt more difficult to play against the smaller teams, a sentiment shared by many PES players in recent years as well. At least for those that find the highest difficulty level too easy, Konami added in another tier called 'Legend', which unlocks after five wins against 'Superstar'.
Smaller gameplay-related improvements include the new freekick and penalty system. Shooting has also been revamped and feels a bit less rocked-like than before - a step in the right direction but by not pefect or on par with FIFA's still.
Modes and Licenses
Looking at modes, it's clear that Konami's priorities lay with gameplay this year, with Master League, MyClub and Become a Legend receiving just cosmetic updates for the most part.
A big problem with PES ever since it's been included has been the online mode, which we've unfortunately not been able to test yet. We'll possibly have another look at it once those servers are up - the Beta offered more than just a glimpse of hope in that department back in July.
Something totally new is the return of the 'random selection mode' in an improved way which sees options expanded and online functionality added to iconic mode from many years ago. It's a fun little addition that allows to mix up things with randomly selected teams - the pool of players the game chooses from can be adjusted to include only certain teams, leagues and more.
Licensing and graphics wise it's similar. There are some additions and changes, generally towards the positive and of the scale, but nothing out of the ordinary can be noted. For a full overview, check out this from Konami.
Thankfully, the edit mode has only been improvement, and thanks to the changes introduced last year, a number of high-quality patches supplying correct kits for Premier League, La Liga and Bundesliga should be out on release day or shortly after. We'll soon follow up with an overview over the best ones.
Verdict
PES 2018 is an easy choice over FIFA for anyone who enjoyed its predecessor, but FIFA regulars should probably have a good look at both demos before making a final decision. 3.5/5.
This review was conducted on the PC and PS4 versions of the game.
Macron Showcases Rimini Calcio Hooped Shirt in 'Unveilievable' Campaign
Italian sportswear brand Macron has spotlighted an eye-catching Rimini Calcio 1912 shirt as part of its ongoing 26-27 "Unveilievable" campaign. Celebrating the club's identity under the label's "Fashion in Sport" banner, the design offers a sharp, vintage-inspired hooped aesthetic that complements the team's traditional red and white quartered look.
The shirt is defined by bold red and white horizontal hoops, each red band carrying subtle fine lines running horizontally across the fabric. A ribbed V-neck collar and matching cuffs feature coordinated red and white striped trims, while a raised, metallic-effect heritage crest sits prominently on the chest. The historic emblem incorporates the Arch of Augustus, the city's red cross shield, and an old-school leather football. Sleeve graphics round out the local touch, featuring the pirate motif of Rimini landmark Bounty on the right sleeve alongside La Mi Ma branding on the left.
Rolled out as part of Macron's broader 26-27 portfolio campaign, the release demonstrates the Italian brand's emphasis on bespoke design across every tier of its club roster. While Rimini continue their campaign on the pitch in their signature checkered shirts, this hooped edition offers a stylish tribute to more than a century of club heritage.
CD Guadalajara 26-27 Away Kit Released
Spanish side CD Guadalajara has unveiled its new away kit for the 26-27 season. Produced once again by Kappa, the new release offers a sharp, colorful alternative that directly complements the club's primary identity.
The Kappa CD Guadalajara 26-27 away shirt is predominantly bright yellow, paired with bold purple accents honoring the club's signature morado shade. Purple covers the rounded crew collar, sleeve trim, and sponsor branding, including the Hercesa chest sponsor. Kappa's iconic Omini logos run in purple along the shoulders and right chest, while matching yellow shorts with purple hems and side logo tracks complete the full kit.
This away strip follows the launch of Guadalajara's 26-27 home shirt earlier in September, which brought a classic all-purple foundation detailed with crisp white piping and logos.
Wydad 26-27 Home Kit Released
Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club and Kappa have officially unveiled their new home kit for the 26-27 season. Built around the club's traditional red base, the shirt features subtle tonal geometric striping across the front panel for a clean and textured appearance. A retro-inspired red and white striped V-neck collar anchors the classic design, complemented by contrasting white Kappa Omini logos on the chest and shoulders alongside a monochrome white club crest.
Albacete Balompié 26-27 Third Kit Released & Debuted
Spanish club Albacete Balompié debuted their new adidas third kit for the 26-27 season during their La Liga 2 fixture against Girona at Montilivi. The Adidas Locker Room shirt features a black base adorned with a red geometric gradient stripe pattern across the front, highlighted by vibrant orange accents on the crew collar, the adidas Three Stripes running down the shoulders, and a monochrome orange edition of the club crest. Completed with matching black shorts and socks featuring orange detailing, the kit joins the club's traditional white home and away strips for the ongoing campaign.
Atalanta 26-27 Third Kit Released
Atalanta and New Balance have officially unveiled the club's new third kit for the 26-27 season. Completing the Italian side's set alongside the previously launched home and away strips, the jersey introduces an elegant aesthetic rooted in the architectural heritage of Bergamo.
The New Balance Atalanta 26-27 third shirt is finished in a warm beige base officially dubbed 'Toasted Sesame', accented by black and 'Taffy Blue' trim on the V-neck collar and sleeve cuffs. Subtly woven across the body is a geometric jacquard pattern inspired by the famous sundial of Bergamo's Palazzo della Ragione. The chest prominently features Atalanta's retro 1964 crest, which depicts the running goddess alongside traditional black and blue stripes.
The New Balance branding appears in black, while Lete's red logo and SNAIFUN complete the front sponsorship. Inside the collar, a bespoke graphic highlights the Bergamo skyline accompanied by the motto 'LA MAGLIA SUDATA SEMPRE'. Crafted with breathable NB DRYx technology, the new kit is available now via the club's official channels.