The graphics in PES 2008 look crisp and quite good overall, with realistic character movements and mannerisms, recognisable real-life players, and goals that look even better when you control the replays. However, we did experience the occasional slowdown when there was a lot of onscreen action, and load times are a tad on the long side. The menus look reasonably nice but they're confusing to navigate if you want to get into the nitty-gritty of injury and suspension.
The game has plenty to offer in terms of game modes, with single matches, World Tour, leagues, regional tournaments, training, ad-hoc multiplayer, and the Konami Cup. Master League makes a comeback after its PSP debut last year, allowing you to play a full season and control the management of your team along the way. It's not a full-blown football-management program, but it breathes new life into regular league competitions, given that you'll need to juggle salaries and player transfers as well as keep track of your club's finances. It's not realistic, especially because of the in-game currency "P points," but it definitely brings a greater feeling of attachment to your team while offering a decent long-term challenge. If you'd rather not focus on the business side of the sport, you can always choose a standard league competition, or the World Tour mode, in which you perform a number of tasks around the world. These include winning a comfortable victory of two goals or higher than your opposition, getting a few last-minute goals in to cinch a win, or perform a hat trick of goals. Nevertheless, it's a shame to see that online play still hasn't been incorporated, especially considering that this is offered in the Nintendo DS version.
Pro Evolution 2008 is a decent football experience and offers a wide variety of game types, a heap of customization, and a solid game of football. On the downside, it hasn't evolved at all since the last outing and has failed to improve on past weaknesses, including the lack of both licensed teams and online play. If you're willing to overlook these omissions or want updated rosters from last year's, then PES 2008 could be worth the investment, but otherwise there's little reason to upgrade.
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