What's the story?

Fifa is a title so omnipresent that developer EA is still, amazingly, pushing out PlayStation 2, PSP and Wii editions. Coming on the heels of the excellent Pro Evolution Soccer 2014, can the big name monolith out-play its rival?

Gameplay

This year's outing boasts considerable improvements to AI in solo play, benefiting both teammates and rivals. The squad is far more responsive to your actions on the pitch, countered by opposition movements capitalising on the smallest error.

Highs and Lows

For real footie aficionados, the Ultimate Team mode will be both a blessing and a curse. Virtual cards bought via microtransactions feature random players, allowing you to build a custom squad and trade duplicates. The perfect team may be the armchair commentator's dream come true, but reaching into your wallet for each pack will sting.

The verdict

Fifa, like Call of Duty, is a title that simply sells. While this year's Pro Evolution Soccer has provided the more technical game with its emphasis on ball physics and fine control, Fifa has the branding and legacy to attract players without even trying. Thankfully, it has made the effort, and Fifa 14 is a fine, if predictable result.