The 2008 edition of the long-running EA FIFA football franchise builds on previous installments’ gameplay and features. The next-generation edition is the series’ second regular appearance on the Xbox 360 and the first on the PlayStation 3. The game now features the full roster of teams and leagues, as seen in previous versions: 620 licensed groups and 30 national associations, with the inclusion of the Hyundai A-League (Australia), Czech Gambrinus Liga (Czech Republic), and FAI Premier Division (Ireland). The leagues have been updated with new teams, and the major footballing countries (England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain) have several divisions. There are another 23 clubs worldwide that are not part of any league.
A redesigned shot simulation considers position, defense, speed, bounce, and direction. This continues the previous version’s dynamic shooting meter, where the work and a shot power meter allow for powerful distance shots. There is also a greater emphasis on through-balls, more fluid animations and skill moves, revised crowd, cheering, and stadium animations, and a redesigned tackle system. In addition to the previously mentioned modes, “Be A Pro” is introduced, in which users assume control of a single, fixed player on the field. It is not a career mode but rather a different approach to playing the games. Online multiplayer features allow players to form a team of autonomously controlled players, with up to ten human-controlled players in a single match. For this mode, the camera is altered to keep the specific player and the action in focus at all times. There are also the returning online interactive leagues, which feature full national clubs versus other EA servers. The game also includes options for creating independent multiplayer games and organizing competitions.
FIFA Soccer 08 has licensed music from all over the world. The poster boy for this edition is Brazilian player Ronaldinho, who is only substituted by notable national players for specific localized versions, particularly in European countries.
