Pro Evo 2008 Wii Details

Created specifically to make full use of the Wii’s unique control system, PES 2008 brings all the realism of Pro Evolution Soccer to the Nintendo machine, but with a more ‘team-orientated’ control system. The Wii game mirrors the real sport’s use of open space and the exploitation of defensive lapses and accurate passes essential in creating scoring opportunities. The Wii version of PES 2008 expands on these elements, with the use of the Nunchuck and Wii Remote controllers giving the player control over both the player on the ball, and those around him.

Uh oh, I can almost sense the ornaments fear at this news, expect more breakages as our footie faithful get "into the game". Konami went on to explain how integral the Wii pointer would be when dribbling and passing the ball.

Using a point and drag system, the player uses the Wii Remote to guide the player with the ball, and perform all the skill moves and close control with subtle movements of their hand. Instantly, the Wii Remote is used to point at nearby players to select them to receive a pass or to latch on to a through-ball. The Remote can also be used to steer the run of the receiving player, giving extra control as they thread through masses of defenders or run into open space.

This news confirms Konami's dedication to making PES a fully fledged Wii game, we just hope they've done enough research and development into perfecting these controls, it sounds like it could really make or break footie games on Wii. Similar to Mario Strikers Charged Konami have opted to include "shakes" for tackles.

The new system gives the player full control over their team, and allows the man marking of specific threats, while shakes of the Wii Nunchuk can be used to perform sliding tackles, and send the goal keeper out to clear a loose ball. The strategic elements are also easily accessed, with the directional controls of the Wii Remote used to activate tactical plays and spring counter attacks or send players tracking back.

Along with the new control system the developers have included full support for Mii's and online play against friends or random players.

Full Mii support is also present, and users can integrate up to 16 pre-defined Miis into a team, while the ever-changing teams can be stored on to the Wii Remote and switched between two linked Remotes. PES 2008 also has a strong online element, allowing users to play ‘Free Matches’ against unknown opponents, or ‘Friend Matches’ against people on the Wii’s Friends list. Team data can also be sent to friends via the console’s WiiConnect24 system.

Pro Evolution 2008 is currently scheduled for release on Wii for March 2008. We'll of course keep you updated with the latest news as and when we get it, expect a full review at release.