FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 (1997): The Ultimate Soccer Simulation

Released in late 1997, FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was a groundbreaking soccer simulation game that captured the excitement and atmosphere of the upcoming 1998 FIFA World Cup. Developed by EA Sports, the game featured a wealth of new features and improvements over previous FIFA titles, including:

  • Road to the World Cup mode: This mode allowed players to take a team from the first qualification round all the way to the World Cup finals, experiencing the varying qualification systems used in different parts of the world.
  • 16 distinct outdoor stadia: The game featured a variety of stadiums from around the world, each with its own unique look and feel.
  • 189 clubs and 11 leagues: Players could choose from a wide range of clubs and leagues, including all the major European leagues.
  • Specific crowd chants: Each team had its own unique crowd chants, which added to the atmosphere of the game.
  • Faster gameplay and improved AI: The action in FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was faster than in previous versions, and the AI was more challenging and realistic.
  • Distinct player facial features and hairstyles: Players now had their own unique facial features and hairstyles, which made them more recognizable on the pitch.
  • Commentary by Des Lynam, John Motson, and Andy Gray: The game’s matches were introduced by Des Lynam and commentated on by John Motson and former Scotland international Andy Gray, adding to the realism and atmosphere.

Gameplay

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98’s gameplay was fast-paced and exciting, with a focus on realism and skill. Players had a variety of controls at their disposal, including passing, shooting, dribbling, and tackling. The game also featured a variety of set pieces, such as free kicks, corner kicks, and penalties.

The AI in FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was challenging and realistic, and players had to use all their skills to overcome their opponents. The game also featured a variety of difficulty levels, so players of all skill levels could enjoy the game.

Graphics and Sound

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98’s graphics were impressive for the time, with detailed player models and stadiums. The game’s sound was also top-notch, with realistic crowd chants and commentary.

Reception

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 5 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its realism, gameplay, and graphics. It was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year.

Legacy

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 is considered one of the greatest soccer simulation games ever made. The game’s success helped to establish EA Sports as a leader in the sports video game genre. The game also helped to popularize the FIFA World Cup and soccer in general around the world.

Conclusion

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 is a classic soccer simulation game that still holds up today. The game’s realism, gameplay, and graphics are all top-notch, and it’s a must-play for any fan of soccer video games.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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