With the World Cup kicking off in France next weekend this is a timely release from EA Sports in conjunction with France 98. Don't fret about half-time - you can now relieve the boredom of those analytical chit-chats with 15 minutes of virtual soccer.
You'll really feel like you're taking part in the extravaganza with Des Lynam, John Motson, Chris Waddle and Gary (my toe is sore) Lineker providing the commentary. For those seeking a touch of nostalgia there is the World Cup Classic mode, but to access this you must first win the World Cup proper. Here the commentary is provided by Kenneth (they think it's all over) Wolstenholme and you can now play in eight vintage World Cup finals.
New features include an in-game management mode and in-game tactics allow you to communicate with your players and employ them to carry out specific moves including offside traps and wing-back runs.
Compression touch technology has been used to improve reaction times, thus providing quicker, more responsive gameplay. While World Cup 98 is a new addition to the market there are an abundance of soccer games around and the opposition is fierce. This game might not become champion but is a worthy contender. It's a case of the market demanding the game rather than the game dictating the market. Good fun nonetheless and with the World Cup badge it is sure to prove a success.
Graphics: 87%, Sound: 88%, Gameplay: 85%