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In conjunction with Eurogamer we have created the FIFA 08 Group to help you keep track of the development of FIFA 08.
What do you think of what you have read and seen so far on FIFA 08? Post your thoughts by clicking here.
Check out our ever growing FIFA 08 Gallery
As more and more images of the game are released we are collecting them up in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to keep on top of all the latest views of this awesome game. Click on the image below to visit the Gallery.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
FIFA News - Would you like a "Create-a-play" feature for FIFA?
Over in the EA Sports UK Forums there has been a great poll started looking at your views on if you would like to see a "Create-a-play" feature (as included in the NHL series, click here to see video).
In short, you know how you can call for run support by pressing Q on keyboard (L1 on gamepad) and players would simply run forward in a predetermined path. Well, this feature (create-a-play) lets you define the paths for each player to run to (of course if there's a defender in the middle he'll move around him). So you can do tons of things like switching the two wingers (left goes to right, right goes to left) or anything really.
You choose a general area to where you can activate the runs, and during the game you simply click one button and players will start following the path you gave them.
Online, it'd probably give more fun to games having to play against people each with their own unique tactics even though they're using the same formation.
Get on over and place your vote and join in the excellent discussion that is developing by clicking here.
Over at GameSpot they have been lucky enough to have a kick-about with the PS2 version of FIFA 08.
All of the subtle additions mean that you have a lot to think about as you play this year's FIFA. Sure, the trademark polish remains intact and it's as easy as ever to dribble the ball around, but the designers are set to offer the edge to those players who are willing to learn the extra moves. This isn't the last FIFA game that will be made for the PlayStation 2, expect the games to continue for another couple of years at least, but the team looks like it's on track to produce the definitive version for the platform so far.
Excited by what you have seen so far of FIFA 08 on the PS2? Then why not pre-order your copy today by either clicking here or visiting our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World).
FIFA 08 News - PS2 Producer Interview and Manual Controls Video
Over at IGN they have an exclusive interview with EA Sports Producer of FIFA 08 on the PS2, Paul Hossack, to find out more about this year's manual controls and other new features that will be included when the game is released this September.
The interview includes questions such as:
Manual controls are a big focus in FIFA 08. Can you give us an example of how through passes and crosses will work now? (Check out the video below for an insight into this improved area of the game)
Can you play as the keeper?
Are there any other new features within the online games that we don't know about?
Excited by what you have seen so far of FIFA 08 on the PS2? Then pre-order your copy today by either clicking here or visiting our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World).
Over with our friends at FIFPlay.com they have been lucky enough to get an interview with Darren Hedges, FIFA 08 Online Producer and a Manchester United fan.
Darren has been a Producer on FIFA for the Next Gen Platforms for the last two years and in this interview he answers questions such as:
What is the difference between FIFA 07 Online Play and FIFA 08’s?
Will EA expand its servers through other countries for 2008?
Disconnections, scoring direct from corner-kicks, cheating on online rating, low speed of servers and some other issues are the bugs in FIFA 07 online, will we see them in FIFA 08 Play Online?
Check out the full interview by clicking here and check back here regularly as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news as it becomes available.
Whilst everything is quiet on the FIFA 08 news front, today we recommend you check out a new FIFA news site in the community, FIFA 2008 News. The site is run by Dennis Bjørn Petersen and his latest news includes:
Real Time Ads In EA Sports Games
FIFA 08 On Playstation 2 - Yes EA Sports Won’t Forget You - This Time
It’s Interview Time - Darren Hedges Online Producer FIFA 2008
Check out the site by clicking here and check back here regularly as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news as it becomes available.
Our friends over at FIFA08.de have also found some interesting information about the release dates of FIFA 08 plus the demo.
The official release date of FIFA 08 has been apparently set as 28th September 2007. Furthermore there are already predicted dates for the demo from EA Sports who have apparently said that this years demo will appear on:
Our friends over at FIFA08.de have news of the official Product Descriptions of FIFA 08 on all the different system versions (PC / Playstation 2 / Xbox, Xbox360 / Playstation 3, Sony PSP, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS) - but at present they are only available in German language. Click here for an English translation.
To celebrate all the great FIFA 08 news that has become available visit our dedicated FIFA 08 homepage, where on one page you can keep up to date with all the latest FIFA 08 news, images and features.
You can also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news.
Check out the images released so far in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery and please also post and share your thoughts about FIFA 08 by clicking here.
It's no secret that Nintendo's Wii console has, more than any system before it, helped bridge the gap between hardcore players and non-gamers alike. While the Big N's innovative remote has proved to be a big component to building that bridge, so has quality software that makes smart use of the device. Like, for example, Wii Sports, a title that de-emphasizes complex controls and enables intuitive, lifelike gameplay simply by reenacting motions we already know. It was just a matter of time until more companies adopted Nintendo's approach, and that time has arrived, as EA announces "Family Play".
So what is Family Play? Quite simply, it's an optional mode incorporated into EA sports titles that takes the nunchuk controller out of play, making it easy for non-gamers to get into the action utilizing intuitive motions and AI-controlled characters. Think of it as "highlight reel mode" for gamers.
Instead of worrying about maneuvering players or taking on more complex gamer actions, it's all about using the Wii-mote for gesture-only control. With the computer taking over all character movement and play orchestration, it's simply up to you to make the big plays happen.
Family Play can be incorporated at any time during play by taking the nunchuk controller out, and is seamlessly integrated into Madden 08, FIFA 08 , and NBA Live 08. Want to play against your younger brother in FIFA? Just switch him over to Family Play and keep your advanced controls in tact. Once he gets a feel for the gesture control, plug in the nunchuk and let him have total control over the game. It's seamless, easy, and intuitive.
"EA Sports Family Play on the Wii creates an incredibly accessible and user-friendly experience that the whole family will enjoy," said Dave McCarthy, executive producer for the three games developed at EA Canada. "While many fans love to control every piece of the action, novice players can have just as much fun jumping in to throw a touchdown pass, nail a three pointer or take a shot on goal. Family Play brings together fans of all ages to enjoy playing EA Sports games, and even lets them ease in to Advanced play if they desire."
With FIFA 08, leave the running and ball-handling to the computer and line up a perfect shot with Wii motion. Take over throw-ins, passes, punts and corner kicks without the need for buttons, and plug back in the nunchuk once you think you have what it takes to step up to Ronaldinho. If you're a hardcore FIFA fan, crank up the AI difficulty and pass an extra Wii-mote to a friend or family member. It's not so easy when your human opponents know all the right moves.
We have 6 new images for you with this news and you must check out all the FIFA 08 images we have in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery by clicking here.
Excited by what you have seen so far of FIFA 08 on the Wii? Then visit our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and pre-order your copy today.
We would also love to hear your views on this new Family Play Wii feature by clicking here.
Catching up with all the latest FIFA 08 news, we have IGN's extensive look at EA's Wii-customized game of soccer.
This fall, publisher EA is set to bring out FIFA 08 for Nintendo's next-generation console. Not some sloppy port with a list of omissions from the other builds, but a full-blown game of soccer that actually plays on Wii's strengths - specifically, the motion-sensory functionality of its unique controller, the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and yes, even its personalized Mii avatars.
If you're a soccer fan, you're in luck because the newest entry into EA's acclaimed series is on track to be the best yet and Nintendo fans are absolutely not being made to settle for second best.
IGN recently had the chance to play both FIFA 08's main mode and some of its Wii-exclusive mini-games and they walked away excited about the product to come.
Check out one of the 4 videos below, the other 3 by clicking here and read their whole article by clicking here.
Excited by what you have seen so far of FIFA 08 on the Wii? Then visit our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and pre-order your copy today.
YouTube member 08fifa08, aka Martin Welzl, has created his very own FIFA 08 Trailer for you from all the official news released so far. Check it out below:
FIFA 08 News - Special Motion Capture Feature @ GFO
Our partners over at GFO 2007 have a special FIFA 08 feature for you which takes an in depth look at the motion capture techniques used to develop the player movements in FIFA 08.
Check out the full translated article by clicking here and check out the 2 new images released with this news in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery. Please also post and share your thoughts about FIFA 08 so far by clicking here.
Today we have new information from our friends at www.fifa08.de about the leagues included in the upcoming FIFA 08 . It has been already anncounced that FIFA 08 will contain 30 leagues, that means 3 more leagues than FIFA07!
Now it is not offically confirmend, but rated as truthful that:
Gambrinus Liga (Czech Republic)
FAI Eircom League (Ireland)
A-League (Australia)
will be those 3 new leagues. All these leagues will be available on all platforms.
You can also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news.
To celebrate all the great FIFA 08 news that has become available we recently opened up our dedicated FIFA 08 homepage, where on one page you can keep up to date with all the latest FIFA 08 news, images and features.
You can also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news.
It has been a crazy week for the PlayStation 3 magazine with a last minute announcement of PES 2008 and FIFA 08 causing a flurry of activity at the editor's desk, some manic writing and late, late nights. All of which has culminated in issue 4 of P3Zine, published online today.
This issue includes the first coverage of both Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 and FIFA 08, as well as an exclusive interview with Free Radical, of TimeSplitters fame, who are working the PlayStation lead title, Haze. They still found room for GTA IV, Burnout Paradise, Ninja Gaiden Sigma, Warhawk and many more, so there's plenty to keep everyone happy.
Over at GameTrailers they have a German video of the recent FIFA 08 Mo-Cap event in Barcelona. In FIFA 08 the stars of the world's number one sport will lend themselves to the game to bring you the ultimate experience. Check out the video below.
Got any strong views or are very excited after seeing this? Then please post your feelings by clicking here.News Reporter:
Dave
- Click here to post/view comments
FIFA 08 News - Wii is as powerful as original Xbox
FIFA 08 producer Tim Tschirner has said that he believes the Nintendo Wii matches up to the first Xbox in terms of power.
"It's about as powerful as the original Xbox," he said. "The video hardware unfortunately is not as powerful. There's just a couple of key things that you can do on Xbox like shaders which you just cannot do on the Wii... Overall though it's pretty much what the original Xbox was."
Tschirner went on to observe that he has found the Wii "very straightforward to write code for", adding, "I think from a creative point of view it's been awesome working on this platform because there's obviously stuff we couldn't do before."
He also praised Nintendo for attempting to broaden the market with the Wii by appealing to people who don't normally play games.
"That's a bit of a philosophy that we wanted to get into this game as well - that people don't have to be afraid of finding the control scheme overwhelming or overly demanding," Tschirner explained.
"And then on the flip-side, we wanted to make sure that long-term FIFA players would find everything they love in the game still in place."
Check out all the Wii images we have in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery by clicking here and please also post and share your thoughts with the world about FIFA 08 on the Wii by clicking here.
FIFA 08 News - PC version will still be CurrentGen
German gaming magazine Games Aktuell have confirmed that FIFA 08 on PC DVD will be still CurrentGen, basically an improved PS2 version. NextGen on PC is awaited in FIFA 09.
As part of their report they also have the first two PC version screenshots for the upcoming FIFA 08.
Over at Gamespot and Eurogamer, they have both got news of their unique Q&A sessions with FIFA 08 Producer on the Wii, Tim Tschirner.
Check out the full interviews which include comments such as:
"We tried sticking the Wii Remote to the bottom of a sock. I used a needle and thread."
"Footii Party offers three party games: Table Soccer, Boot It, and a party game right now we are tentatively calling Keep Up. Table Soccer allows you to play a game of foosball, Boot It is a fast-paced game where you take turns shooting the ball at the goalie, and Keep Up is a game where you juggle the ball and try to keep it in the air. Each game supports up to four players and can only be played with the Wii Remote."
Check out the 13 new images released with this news in our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery and please also post and share your thoughts about FIFA 08 on the Wii by clicking here.
FIFA 08 News - Ronaldinho turns into Customised Character on the Wii
FIFA 08 cover athlete Ronaldinho, one of the most talented and recognizable athletes in the world, will become the first professional football player to appear as a customized character exclusively for the Wii™, Electronic Arts Inc. has announced yesterday.
EA has created a unique character of the celebrated Brazilian International football star that will be playable in FIFA 08 on Wii. The Wii-exclusive Ronaldinho will host a game mode designed and created exclusively for Wii called Footii Party with Ronaldinho. With this mode, EA introduces unique party games - including Table Football and Shoot Off – where you can play as your self-created Mii™ character to unlock Ronaldinho and take on the champ. Each Footii Party game is created as a multiplayer, social experience designed to engage and entertain fans of all ages.
Ronaldinho commented on the character, “My character looks like he enjoys playing football and shares my passion for the game. This is important to me. Whether you are playing football on the pitch or my party games in FIFA 08 on the Wii, it should be a fun and enjoyable experience.”
“When Ronaldinho steps on to the football pitch, he plays with passion and energy. We’ve brought that same spirit to FIFA 08 on Wii – it is fun, high-energy entertainment the entire family can enjoy,” said senior producer Tim Tschirner.
The game’s revolutionary FreeMotion™ controls help level the playing field for all players and turns FIFA 08 on Wii into a physical, social activity. It also provides gamers with a truly authentic football experience with more control than ever before. It's easy to pick-up and play and with the in-game Football Academy you can learn basic and advanced controls in more than 30 interactive tutorials. Each lesson teaches you how to master the FreeMotion controls and perform all the necessary movements to dominate on the pitch.
Play FIFA 08 to take your favorite team and players to Cup glory. Mesmerize defenders with authentic individual skill and play like a real football player. Now you pass, shoot, and perform trick moves all with a flick of the wrist. Dictate the play with all-new controls for through-passing and crossing, or control your goalkeeper in one-on-one situations to deny an onrushing striker.
FIFA 08 delivers complete authenticity with licenses for all of the world’s top leagues, including MLS and Mexican 1st Division in North America, and 28 others from more than 20 nations. This year you can choose to play with one of over 570 licensed teams and more than 14,000 players to win glory with or against up to three of your friends.
There were also 13 new images released with this news, which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
Please also post and share your thoughts about FIFA 08 on the Wii by clicking here.
To celebrate all the great FIFA 08 news that has been released recently, we now have our dedicated FIFA 08 homepage, where on one page you can keep up to date with all the latest FIFA 08 news, images and features.
You can now also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Please post your thoughts about FIFA 08 so far by clicking here and check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news as it becomes available.
Soccer fans rejoice as EA is preparing to unveil the 2008 edition of the world's most popular sport and they have released their first teaser video for FIFA 08. Check it out below, but don't be too disappointed as it is only a teaser!
Got any strong views after seeing this? Then please post them by clicking here. News Reporter:
Dave
- Click here to post/view comments
FIFA News - A new FIFA feature every year... but which ones stuck?
Over at Games Radar they have a great feature looking back at some 15 years of FIFA and the amazing new features it's introduced.
Every year, FIFA starts boasting about the new tricks up its sleeve. But how many of them actually stick around for the next installment?
Click here to check out this great look back over the "FIFA Years".
To celebrate all the great FIFA 08 news that has been released recently, we now have our dedicated FIFA 08 homepage, where on one page you can keep up to date with all the latest FIFA 08 news, images and features.
You can now also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news as it becomes available.
Over at Eurogamer TV as part of their Eurogamer TV Show - Episode 12 they watch footy stars in motion capture mayhem for FIFA 08, at the recent Mo-Cap event in Barcelona.
The team over at IGN have been lucky enough to test out an early version of FIFA 08 on the Wii at EA Canada and have their feedback for you.
The Wii version of the EA Sports soccer title was in very early form at the company's press event in Vancouver last month, so a lot of what they saw was in very prototype form that would be getting a good amount of tweaking over the course of its continued development.
In their early playtest, we got a peek at what the company plans for the Wii version of FIFA Soccer 08. The game will use much of the core assets and engine from "last-gen" versions of the game, so the main game will look on par with what the other teams are doing with the PlayStation 2 version of the series.
There will be specific changes - for example, the default camera will switch from the familar side-scrolling television style presentation to a very NHL Hockey top-down, vertically scrolling movement. The decision to go to this camera was so that a lot of the Wii-centric motion controls wouldn't feel "off" since they're sensitive to your character's position.
For example, if you want to pass the ball to a teammate, it's a flick of the remote in the direction that you want to send the ball - flick it to the left or right to pass the ball left or right, or flick it forward to pass it ahead. Kicking the ball towards the goal used a "scooping" motion to mimic the foot - dig it hard and fast and the ball will go in that direction. If you need to throw the ball in from the side, raise the Nunchuk and Remote controls over your head and make a tossing motion...easy as that. Slide tackles were also applied to the motion controls that makes it as simple as flicking the wrist when you want to go for the ball.
Other than the "toss in" motion, the pass and kick controls were very touchy and somewhat disconnecting in our early playtest, but the team is still tuning the game to really give Wii owners a good, unique experience. And judging from the brand new screenshots, the experience isn't just going to be applied to the Wii controls.
Check out the video we posted yesterday which gives updated progress with the Wii version of the game.
Post your thoughts about FIFA 08 on the Wii by clicking here.
Thanks to IGN you can learn how EA have adapted the use of the Wii controllers to enable game players to interact with the game and actually play soccer in your front room (including goalkeeper saves!).
Also learn about the Soccer Academy which is a tutorial mode to allow you to learn all the basic controls before you venture into a real match, or in the game at key points such as corners to improve or practice your technique.
Check out the full interview below.
There were also 9 new images released with this news, which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
Please post your thoughts about FIFA 08 on the Wii by clicking here.
FIFA 08 News - Ronaldinho's Motion Capture Session
We have come across this video following Ronaldinho through the motion capture event in Barcelona for EA Sports' upcoming video game FIFA 08. Check it out by clicking here. News Reporter:
Dave
- Click here to post/view comments
Friday, June 8, 2007
FIFA 08 News - The next chapter in the FIFA v PES debate
The team over at Eurogamer squabble over the relative merits of Pro Evolution Soccer and the latest FIFA 08.
Check out their good humoured debate and see what their conclusion is by clicking here.
You may have already seen this news, but as we have 4 new images to go with the story we thought we would update you anyway. Better to be told twice than not at all.
FIFA World Player of the Year Ronaldinho will headline a global lineup of superstar athletes to be featured on the front packs of FIFA Soccer 08, the next chapter in the internationally acclaimed videogame franchise from EA Sports.
The spotlight will shine on FC Barcelona’s world-class midfielder Ronaldinho who will be the center-piece of FIFA Soccer 08 global packaging and marketing campaigns. Selected FIFA World Player 2004 and 2005, and a finalist last season, Ronaldinho will take his place on FIFA Soccer 08 covers alongside star players from other select teams in countries around the world.
Ronaldinho will join:
2006 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner Miroslav Klose of Werder Bremen on packaging in Germany,
rising star Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid on the cover in Spain,
attacking midfielder and captain of the Austrian national team Andreas Ivanschitz of Panathinaikos FC on the cover in Austria,
Swiss international Tranquillo Barnetta of Bayer Leverkusen on front packaging in Switzerland, and
Midfielder Florent Malouda of Olympique Lyonnais and winger Frank Ribery of Olympique Marseille will be paired on covers in France.
There were also 4 new images with this news, which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
Check out what versions you can pre-order so far from our UK and World Sweetpatch Shops by passing your mouse over the following links:
FIFA 08 News - Master the Skills required to Play Like a Pro
EA Sports have revealed the tremendous depth of gameplay features in FIFA 08 for Xbox 360™ and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system which will create a football experience that matches the complexity, finesse and beauty of the real-world game.
FIFA 08 challenges players to master the skills required to play like a pro football player. Fans around the world can experience the same highs and lows of real-world players and tackle the challenges they face on a daily basis. FIFA 08 allows you on the pitch to defy the odds, perfect your skills, elevate your game and rise up to win glory for your club.
Next-Gen Gameplay Engine The FIFA 08 next-gen gameplay engine, built to maximize the power of Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3, delivers animations and ball control that is so responsive you feel like you are actually on the pitch. Footballers in FIFA 08 now benefit from A.I. so smart, it features a 35-point decision engine which enables players to process multiple decisions and reactions in real-time. The A.I.’s dynamic ‘Threat Map’ system captures the excitement and realism of football. Players are now aware of their surroundings, reacting authentically to threats and opportunities to make intelligent football decisions.
Shooting System Now with the FIFA 08 shooting system you can enjoy even more control and precision in front of the goal to become a true marksman. The next-generation ball-striking engine calculates shot success by combining an almost infinite number of different contexts, including ball spin, pressure from defenders, player attributes, and even air pressure to recreate the drama and unpredictable nature of shooting.
Be A Pro Mode For the first time ever, fans playing FIFA 08 will face the pressure to improve their game that real-world players endure every day. A new play mode called Be A Pro locks you in the role of a single player and challenges you to master the same disciplines as a real football player—from positioning and tackling to reading the field and passing.
“This year, FIFA 08 takes its second step into the next-generation. Last year, we kicked off the next-generation by introducing a new engine and stunning ball physics. This year, we are introducing new gameplay, new modes and a new feeling of football finesse,” said Andrew Wilson, Executive Producer for FIFA 08. “Be A Pro forces you to think and react like a professional player - you will experience the whole range of emotions players go through during the course of a game. This feature, along with advancements to our gameplay engine, will deliver on our promise of authentic football gameplay.”
Skill Moves FIFA 08 introduces skill moves with a true next-generation organic ‘building-block’ system enabling you to combine tricks and skill moves together to recreate signature moves from the real-world superstars or define your own style of play. Animations can be interrupted at any time to transition into a new move, enabling you to read and respond to the defence, just like real life. Master the skills to break down the defence, elude your marker and lead your team to victory.
Interactive Leagues The award-winning Interactive Leagues feature that was first introduced in FIFA 07, now makes its debut on Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3. Represent your club online against your rivals throughout the season in the F.A. Premier League, Bundesliga, French League or Mexican 1st Division. When they play, you play.
“The Interactive Leagues is the most successful online tournament we’ve had for the FIFA franchise and I am thrilled to bring it into this year’s next-gen game. As a Leeds United fan I was pained to see Manchester United win the first Interactive Premier League last season. However, I’m looking forward to redressing the balance this year through FIFA 08,” said Joe Booth, Producer for FIFA 08 on Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3. “One of my favourite things about Interactive Leagues is how it connects me and the development team with the FIFA gamers via our weekly in-game pod-cast. We have just broken the one million downloads mark and It’s been a fantastic way to interact with other fans, share experiences and answer questions.”
Licences In addition, FIFA 08 is dramatically more real and exhilarating with the inclusion of 620 licensed teams, 30 leagues, and more than 15,000 players making it 20% larger than FIFA 07 on current generation formats.
FIFA 08 is developed by EA Canada in Vancouver, B.C. and is scheduled for worldwide release this autumn on the:
Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft,
the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system,
the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system,
Wii™,
Nintendo DS™,
PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system,
PC and
mobile.
EA will reveal the specific features available in the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Wii, Nintendo DS, PSP system, PC and mobile versions in the coming weeks.
What do you think of all this excellent oficial FIFA 08 news? Please post your thoughts by clicking here.
There were also 3 new images with this press release, which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
Richard Melville over at Eurogamer previews FIFA 08 for the PlayStation 2 with EA Producer Paul Hossack.
So, while FIFA 08 is set to be dramatically reborn on next-gen platforms, FIFA 08 on PS2 is a solid, finely tuned finale to the series.
Producer Paul Hossack is keen to stress that, on his 7th FIFA, this is a very different game to the one appearing on PS3: "we're not told what to do, we're not looking at the next-gen version and doing the same. Internally, we see what they're doing but we get the chance to polish the core system we've been working on for seven years," he explains.
The key difference with 08 on PS2 is the custom-designed co-op mode. It's called Be A Pro Co-Op Season and it gives you and a mate the chance to pick a team member and play with a team of PS2-controlled players.
Elsewhere, there's tweaks designed solely to keep multiplayer matches exciting. When a throw in or free-kick occurs, you can hide the player selection marker, so your rival won't have a clue which way the ball is heading. It seems like a small touch, but in addition to the ability to take full control of the keeper, it gives the game a strategic edge that just wasn't there before.
Watching FIFA 08 in action, it looks more like a real match of football. Players make proper runs and keepers scramble to make saves instead of staring at the ball until a player enters the box.
Play feels more open, less on rails and - with the co-op mode - gives gamers the chance to learn what future 11-versus-11 multiplayer games might feel like in the future. "It's going to happen, it's part of the evolution towards 11-versus-11 matches" says Hossack, giving a teasing insight into how FIFA is rapidly evolving in the face of increased competition and the shift to next-gen.
On PS2, FIFA 08 is the most innovative game in the series yet. The overall structure, key gameplay and the new co-op mode all conspire to show how innovation in the beautiful game isn't exclusive to the bigger, shinier black brother of PS2.
There were also 2 new images with this preview for the PS2, which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
GameSpot have reported that while the rest of EA Sports has borrowed the animations from FIFA, the soccer series isn't above borrowing some ideas from other games.
Since its migration to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, the FIFA series has come to be the standard-bearer for player movement, so much so that practically all EA Sports games, from Madden to NBA Live, are now using the improved player animations that had their beginnings in the FIFA series.
Take, for instance, the new "Be a Pro" mode, a simplified, soccer-centric version of the Madden NFL series' superstar mode that will be available only in offline exhibition games in FIFA 08.
Here you'll play the position of one player - from striker to sweeper - on the field and will be responsible for his assignments and roles accordingly. As you play, the camera will follow you on the field (complete with a Gears of War-inspired chase cam when you break into a full sprint with the ball) and will pull back to show you more of the field to give you a general idea of where you need to be.
In addition, helpful arrows will show your areas of responsibility on the pitch and, additionally, which members of the opposite team you're assigned to cover.
At halftime you'll get a feedback on your progress as a player, and after the match is over, you'll be ranked depending on how much you contributed (which will also tie into the 360 version's achievements system).
While Be a Pro mode will be limited in FIFA 08 (no online play and only in exhibition mode), producers said they are very excited about the possibilities the feature holds for the future of the FIFA series. Specifically, they referred to the ultimate goal of having 11-on-11 play online in the series - something that's unfortunately still a few years away (but hopefully ready for the World Cup in 2010!).
What do you think of this Be a Pro feature? Post your thoughts by clicking here.
Our friends over at FIFA 4 Fans have a chance for you to win prizes in their FIFA 08 Cover Contest.
Still the FIFA 08 cover is unknown. Therefore they want your ideas for the new cover. Your task: Create a customised FIFA 08 cover based on all your wishes! The appearance is all up to you, you decide on all pictures and ideas, but please follow these rules:
Please use the provided Templates (either the psd or png file);
The cover has to be in size 908x600 pixels (like the template); and
On the cover, all logos (EA Sports, FIFA 08, FIFA, 3+) have to be included.
The closing date is Saturday June 16th 2007 @ 11:59pm!
At the end of this contest, all covers that have been sent in will be published in a gallery over at FIFA 4 Fans. A jury of some of the FIFA 4 Fans Members will choose the best 3 covers! Have fun and take part in this contest!
You can download the two templates (the logos in a .png file and as a .psd file) by clicking here.
FIFA 08 News - New Homepage for FIFA 08 and Shop Updated
To celebrate all the great FIFA 08 news that has become available this weekend we have opened up our dedicated FIFA 08 homepage where on one page you can keep up to date with all the latest FIFA 08 news and features.
You can now also pre-order your copy of the FIFA 08 game from our Sweetpatch Shops (UK, US, World) and make BIG savings at the same time.
Check back every day as we bring you all the latest and up to date FIFA 08 news.
The greatest footballer in the world talks exclusively to IGN about FIFA, playing soccer in a motion capture suit and beating his Barcelona mates at video games.
This interview took place in Barcelona last week at EA Sports motion capture event where they also started the launch of information regarding FIFA 08. Read the full interview by clicking here.
IGN also took some great photos there which we have added to our ever expanding FIFA 08 Gallery for you to check out by clicking here.
As the FIFA 08 news starts to fly in, IGN bring us Joe Booth's dream for the FIFA series on the Next Gen platforms. They have an interview (with accompanying video below).
With more than 600 teams, skill moves and the new Be a Pro mode, EA finally puts its best foot forward. Check out the video below and then click here to read the full article.
What do you think of what you have read and seen so far on FIFA 08? Post your thoughts by clicking here.
The 1st June seems to have triggered the start of detailed information on EA Sports next installment of their FIFA football/soccer franchise, FIFA 08.
In conjunction with Eurogamer we have created the FIFA 08 group to help you keep track of the development of FIFA 08 and post all your views on what you think about it. Most importantly this group is where you have fun and enjoy the game of FIFA 08.
Join this group so that everyone can start to share their views on the development of the game.
What do you think of what you have read and seen so far on FIFA 08? Post your thoughts by clicking here.
As well as interviewing the top FIFA 08 staff at EA Canada, Tom Bramwell over at Eurogamer has got his hands on an early version of the game and learnt all about the fascinating new system for when players interact with the ball.
FIFA 08 News - 11-versus-11 FIFA by 2010 World Cup
Electronic Arts hopes that FIFA will be able to support 11-versus-11 play in time for the 2010 World Cup - so that its "Virtual World Cup" will consist of each country's best 11 players competing side by side.
Speaking to Eurogamer, FIFA 08 producer Joe Booth unveiled this year's "Be A Pro" mode, which lays the foundations for 11-versus-11 play in the next two years. Be A Pro gives you control of one player on a football team, with reward systems built around how well you contribute to the team.
"In the long term we have big plans. We'd like for the 2010 World Cup to have a virtual World Cup at the same time, and build an organisation in each territory that finds the best 11 players and flies them out to South Africa, and have a full-on tournament there," Booth said.
Tom Bramwell over at Eurogamer has been lucky enough to mark the start of their great FIFA 08 coverage with an interview with Joe Booth, producer on FIFA 08 for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
FIFA 08 is taking shape, and it's a shape Eurogamer like. It's taking ball physics and simulation to new levels of fanciness, introducing a control-one-player-only mode, and developing a skill blending system that rivals the best beat-'em-ups for versatility of gaming expression. Among many other things.
Having shown them the game and let them play around with it, producer Joe Booth sat them down in one of EA Canada's swanky boardrooms and answered some more of their silly questions.
FIFA 08 News - Early information from French PSM3 magazine
If you can speak French then check out these photos from the French edition of the PSM3 magazine and see what they have to say about the game. Any translations would be greatly received by clicking here.
If you can't speak French then still check out the photos as you will see some great new images.
Excited by this FIFA 08 news? Then get on over to our Sweetpatch Shop now where you can already pre-order your copy so it arrives with you on its day of release.
The latest issue of the Nintendo Power magazine has confirmed that Electronic Art's soccer game FIFA 08 will release on Wii this fall with Mii support.
In addition to featuring Wii-specific gesture controls, FIFA 08 will also include a set of Mii-based mini-games. Nintendo Power described one mini-game as a form of soccer hot potato, in which players must keep the ball in the air by flicking the Wii Remote in a certain direction when the ball lands in a target circle. The magazine also mentioned a Foosball mini-game, as well as a shoot-out game in which multiple players kick a ball at a single goalie; the lowest scorer assumes goalie duty in the next round.
Other editions of FIFA 08 are expected to feature online play, but it is unknown if Electronic Arts will utilize the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection for the Wii version.
Excited by this FIFA 08 Wii news? Then get on over to our Sweetpatch Shop now where you can already pre-order your copy so it arrives with you on its day of release.
FIFA 08 News - Ronaldinho Headlines EA's Superstar Lineup
Electronic Arts have announced that two-time FIFA World Player of the Year Ronaldinho will headline a global lineup of superstar athletes to be featured on the front packs of FIFA 08, that will be available this Autumn for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Nintendo DS™, PC, mobile and will appear for the first time on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Wii™.
The spotlight will shine on FC Barcelona’s world-class midfielder Ronaldinho who will be the center-piece of FIFA 08 global packaging and marketing campaigns. Selected FIFA World Player 2004 and 2005, and a finalist last season, Ronaldinho will take his place on FIFA 08 covers alongside star players from other select teams in countries around the world.
Ronaldinho will join:
2006 FIFA World Cup™ Golden Boot winner Miroslav Klose of Werder Bremen on packaging in Germany,
rising star Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid on the cover in Spain,
attacking midfielder and captain of the Austrian national team Andreas Ivanschitz of Panathinaikos FC on the cover in Austria,
and Swiss national Tranquillo Barnetta of Bayer Leverkusen on front packaging in Switzerland.
Midfielder Florent Malouda of Olympique Lyonnais and winger Frank Ribery of Olympique Marseille will be paired with Ronaldinho on covers in France.
The athletes appearing on the cover of FIFA 08 in North America and the United Kingdom will be revealed next month.
EA also revealed that many of the players who will be appearing on its FIFA 08 covers participated in state-of-the-art body motion capture yesterday at a private facility in Barcelona, Spain. Cover stars Ronaldinho, Klose, Ramos, Barnetta, and Ivanschitz were being motion captured for the EA SPORTS FIFA videogame development team. The body movements, individual moves and playing style of each athlete is being captured, digitized and will become the life-like movement of the virtual players in future versions of EA’s FIFA games.
Excited by this first real piece of news on FIFA 08? Then get over to our Sweetpatch Shop now where you can already pre-order your copy so it arrives with you on its day of release.
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Online Producer and a Manchester United fan. 
, and NBA Live 08. Want to play against your younger brother in FIFA? Just switch him over to 
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