Fifa 09 to feature '250 key improvements'

Electronic Arts has allegedly made "250 key improvements" to the 09 version of its successful Fifa franchise, including improved responsiveness from players and a revamped collision system.

EA said there would be "improved responsiveness that allows for quicker release of the ball, greater urgency in the off-the-ball running, a new jostle system that takes into account the strength of the players when going shoulder to shoulder and subtle animations that enable players to take first-time shots".

The collision system, which calculates speed, weight and power when players collide, will be defined by players' individual strength and power stats.

The defenders apparently won't have so much of an advantage this time round, although this could of course lead to cricket scores in games where strikers are able to brush past any defenders.

Physics will play more of a part in the game itself, with player stances meaning tackles will have different effects depending on whereabouts they connect and what position the player is when they do.

For example, an Eduardo-style challenge could lead to a player being taken out of the game, while a little clip on the ankles won't necessarily send the player falling to the ground, unless it is Cristiano Ronaldo.

As for the PS2 version, EA says it is more concerned with tweaking the existing game rather than reinventing it, although the collision system will still be revamped.

The Wii version is set to feature more outlandish control methods, akin to PES on that platform. Other modes include an automatic passing option and "Footii", with eight players per side and a more arcade-y feel to the match.