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Even though Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 came out way back in March, Konami recently sent it to us and we can say that it's worth the wait. PES 2008 was formerly known as the Winning Eleven series and was hands down the best soccer franchise on video game shelves.

PES doesn't have the flash and glitter like other soccer games, but what does have is realistic animations and excellent game play. As with most PES/Winning Eleven titles, if you haven't played in a while, the controls take some time to get used to.  Whether you're doing a short pass, long pass, through pass, or simply taking a shot, there's a variety of ways to do it that depend on how long you hold the buttons and where you're aiming.

The animations are probably the best you'll see in any soccer game. The movements, running, passing, juking, and shooting are just how they look in a real soccer match. PES 2008 captures the action so well that every time you play, you can't help but be impressed by the animation, even if the opposing team is flopping all over the place.

The only negative would be the lack of licensed teams and players. The game is made of world league teams and national teams and it's a bit disjointed. Sure you have the USA team, but no Donovan or Beasley. But there's FC Barcelona with Ronaldinho dazzling crowds. There's an England team with David Beckham but English league teams like Arsenal and Manchester United have been renamed with generic titles. For you game savvy folks, however, there are some downloads floating around the net where you can get the team and player names for all squads on the game.

Overall, Pro Evolution Soccer 2008, is hands down one of the better soccer games you'll get this year. From both single player and online player, you won't be disappointed.

Q's Rating: 4 out of 5

Gamespy: 3 out of 5

Gameshark: B

Check out the trailer: