The ability to manage your expectations is an important skill when it comes to writing about gaming - especially previews. Too many - actually, 99.3% of them - are barely critical and willing to accentuate the positive at all times. So, when I got preview code of the new Sensible Soccer yesterday, I was sharpening the knives. After all, Sensi was my game of the 90s, the one that nearly made me fail my degree and certainly the game I spent most time playing. So, no pressure then. But you know what? Codemasters/Kuju have gone and pulled it off - Sensible Soccer is not a travesty. In fact, it is very good and has the potential to get even better when I can grab a mate round to try out multiplayer.
For a start, it respects the heritage of the series. From the music - goal scoring superstar hero, oh yes - to the ability to use aftertouch when shooting, Sensi veterans will feel at home. Actually, the freedom of shot is one of the big differences between this and PES/FIFA. Aiming is crucial - lazy stabs at the shoot button just won't work - and aftertouch is a joyous necessity.
You will have to unlearn all your PES skills when playing, although the inclusion of a sprint bar is one of the new additions to Sensi. The action is fast though, and there is none of the time to think on the ball that you get with, say , PES. The first few games are likely to be midfield scraps until you start remembering to launch those high curved balls into the channels.
Even the unofficial team and player names are not a real problem - the comedy teams were always an important part of Sensi. Even so, I guided Southampton to a glorious 3-1 victory over Portsmouth and there are enough real team approximations to please most fans.
Of course, there are issues. The camera is annoying, and bobbles around as it struggles to keep up with the fast -paced action. In fact I wouldn't recommend playing if you have a hangover or a stomach bug. Also it can be hard to pick out the action at the farther end of the pitch. Tackling is haphazard too, though the refs are pleasingly lenient. But overall I was pleasantly surprised by Sensi and am predicting cult status for it come release. Now if only you could play online..
