Online gaming is (generally) great. Competing with or against other people almost always beats solo play, especially for sports games. Challenging a mate to a game of Pro Evolution Soccer - or Madden, since I rediscovered the NFL after the recent Wembley game - is not only a laugh but also a social necessity when most of your friends have young families/no time. But anyone who has played PES 2008 online will know "laugh" isn't exactly the right word to use. "Shambolic" and "laggy" are just two printable ways to describe the mess that is PES 2008 online. So the news that the publishers Konami have finally released a patch is welcome, if overdue. I haven't a chance to test it yet but if anyone has do let me know if it makes any difference.
After another disappearing ball/reappearing defender PES moment the other night I did the previously unthinkable and stuck FIFA 2008 on. Not as much as fun to play - too bloody slow - but they've nailed the online. And that could swing it for me. Alternatively I may just wait for Sensible Soccer on Xbox Live Arcade - now confirmed for the 19th Dec. Decisions, decisions.
