Parents' Guide to eFootball PES 2020

Fans of this franchise will find this year's installment to be a gratifying game. eFootball PES 2020 doesn't mess with the formula too much, but new visual and control tweaks and gameplay additions make it a worthy game to kick around with friends. Several new updates were included, allowing for things like better player and ball control, all complemented with seemingly fresh animation and player models. It's not a complete graphical overhaul -- the menu screens are still ugly and convoluted -- but it's a noticeable upgrade over the past couple of PES games. The buildup to a goal is fantastic, because you can feel the anticipation swell on the pitch while inching toward the big moment. Plus, the intensity can be heard through the stadium crowds, too, with a rise in volume and excitement. That said, some AI players (especially in the defense department) still feel like they have work to do. Also, not all the leagues and teams are included (like the English Premier League) because of their exclusive licenses with other games (unlicensed teams are still here, but under a different name).

When it comes to modes, you still have all the solo and multiplayer modes you're familiar with, but the meaty manager mode, Master League, is super fun to play on and off the pitch, and has a better presentation and an interesting story with some twists. The myClub mode is relatively unchanged, allowing you to customize teams and use in-game GP currency or optional myClub coins (bought with real money) to buy additional players and add-ons. Also new this year is a competitive online mode, Matchday, where you choose a side and then face off against rivals in group matches to earn Event Points; the side with the most Event Points at the end of a tournament enters the Grand Final round with an advantage. It's fun, but not earth-shattering. It's not too different from what came before it, but footie fans should agree: eFootball PES 2020 is definitely a kick in the right direction.