Parents' Guide to Pro Evolution Soccer 2010

Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Alex Porter , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 10+

Graphically amazing and detailed soccer simulation game.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 10+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 6+

Based on 1 parent review

age 10+

Based on 1 kid review

What's It About?

PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2010 (along with the latest in EA Sports' FIFA franchise) is the most realistic soccer game on the market. The sheer number of teams, modes, adjustments and options available is staggering. Players can create teams and manage them through a career, host tournaments with up to 32 players, and much, much more. The basic controls are simple enough, with dedicated buttons for long pass, short pass, shoot, and to switch the player you're controlling at the moment. There's also a 360 degree control scheme that lets players move their athletes in any direction on the field. On defense, buttons control slide tackles, player switching, dashing, and the goalkeeper. These are all standard moves, but advanced players can add variations on these with double-taps and button combinations that form literally hundreds of different moves, passes, and shots.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say ( 1 ):

The most impressive aspect of this game on PS3 and Xbox 360 is the graphics. Player likenesses, soccer pitches, and stadiums are rendered with stunning realism. It's also fun and accessible, allowing casual players to jump into a single game while letting hardcore soccer fans engage in extended tournaments and careers.

There are a few downsides, however. First, the audio commentary is sometimes delayed, repetitive, or, worse, completely out of sync with the action on the field. Plus, the true soccer geeks to whom this game is marketed might be disappointed by the absence of some key leagues and teams. Many fans prefer EA's FIFA series of soccer games for this reason, though it can come down to a matter of personal taste, as both have distinct features. In short, this is a very good game that offers lots of bang for your buck.

Online interaction: Online play will allow players to challenge friends in a variety of tournaments and modes. However, you can also choose to play strangers online where you can expect foul language and poor sportsmanship aplenty. Common Sense Media does not recommened open online play for children under age 12.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the international phenomenon of soccer. It's the world's most popular sport, with far more passionate fans in Africa, Europe and South America than in North America. What aspects of the game make it so appealing across so many nations?

  • Families can also discuss the team(s) they like most. What do you like about them? Do you choose teams based on your heritage? The players who represent these teams?

  • The game's depth may also provide good conversational fodder. Do you prefer deep strategy and team management? Or do you simply enjoy playing against friends and family?

Game Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 Poster Image

What to Play Next

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate