eFootball PES 2021 Season Update

Pros

• Refined gameplay that emphasizes realistic soccer strategy
• Exclusive Club Editions add unique value for players
• Accessible entry point for newcomers to the PES series
• Faithful to the established feel and mechanics of PES 2020

Cons

• Limited innovation from previous installment
• Commentary and presentation need significant upgrades
• Contentious inclusion of loot box mechanics
• May not satisfy those seeking a brand-new PES experience

Building on its predecessor's foundations, eFootball PES 2021 Season Update delivers an incremental enhancement of the acclaimed series. Marking 25 years of engaging soccer simulation, Konami Digital Entertainment launched this update as a tribute to long-standing fans and newcomers alike, providing a real-life soccer experience steeped in the franchise's rich legacy.

Seasonal Refresh Rather Than Revolutionary Change

Keen observers will note that eFootball PES 2021 Season Update is a continuation of last year's eFootball PES 2020. It is pivotal to mark this distinction as the update does not boast a significant overhaul. Users well-versed with PES 2020 will encounter familiar graphics, user interface, and the core receiving mechanics unchanged. This reflects a conservative approach from Konami, focusing on refining existing elements instead of implementing broad system-wide evolutions.

Gameplay and Mechanics

For purists seeking an organic feel to their in-game tactics and playstyle, PES 2021 underlines its commitment to realism over flash. The in-game pace places a heavier emphasis on realistic player movements and ball physics. This slower tempo intensifies the strategic aspect of soccer, requiring players to sculpt well-thought-out plays and movements. Fans will also appreciate the nuanced handling of players, where individual skills and flair come into effect, translating into a multitude of strategic variants during matchplay.

myClub and Club Editions

The myClub feature remains largely untouched from its earlier iteration, providing a management-esque experience to team building that competes with the likes of FIFA's Ultimate Team. Although derivative, myClub permits a granular approach to team composition and player acquisition. Exclusive Club Editions enhance this by offering iconic player moments, catering to enthusiasts seeking to relive the glory days of soccer legends within their virtual squads.

Lingering Issues and Community Requests

However, the game isn't without its downsides. One particularly noticeable area calling for improvement is in-match commentary, which lacks the dynamic and context-aware refinements seen in other sports titles. The issue of loot boxes remains contentious as well, with critics and players alike expressing concern over their inclusion and implementation within the game's ecosystem.

Concluding Thoughts

eFootball PES 2021 Season Update stays true to its roots—arguably to a fault for those craving fresh innovation. Nonetheless, it enriches the core gameplay that fans have grown to love, while also serving as an accessible entry point for those new to the series. Despite a dearth of new features and a lean towards caution in development, the update solidifies the series' reputation for delivering a soccer experience that rivals the real thing in tempo, tactics, and tension.

Pros

• Refined gameplay that emphasizes realistic soccer strategy
• Exclusive Club Editions add unique value for players
• Accessible entry point for newcomers to the PES series
• Faithful to the established feel and mechanics of PES 2020

Cons

• Limited innovation from previous installment
• Commentary and presentation need significant upgrades
• Contentious inclusion of loot box mechanics
• May not satisfy those seeking a brand-new PES experience