May 09, 2004 - Konami has unveiled solid details on Winning Eleven 8, the next entry in its platinum soccer series. The information points to a game that, as expected, improves upon previous versions in every way.
Winning Eleven 8 will feature the greatest number of teams and players in the history of the series. Master League will allow for the selection of 138 teams, up from 64 teams in last year´s edition. Teams from leagues in Spain, Italy, England, Germany, France and Orlanda will all appear in the game either with real or fake names. In all, combining national and club teams, the series will for the first time cross the 200 team mark.
Gameplay changes are also being worked into the game. A new form of ball controll will feature as will the ability to select from two players during free kicks. New control options available for search pass and centering will apparently give the game a more direct feel of control.
Customization is one area that has been improving with each entry of the Winning Eleven series, and 8 is no different. New character growth features are being planned for Master League. Konami is also beefing up the game´s edit features for emblems and league names.
Beginners are also being taken care of with this entry. Those confused about controls will be able to bring up a control chart by simply pressing the start button during play. Explanations will be provided for basic soccer rules and in-game skills.
And if everything falls into place as expected, Konami will end up with the biggest selling soccer game for this year once again. Winning Eleven 8 hits Japan on 8/5. Stay tuned for more as that date approaches.
