Two years removed from the controversial launch of eFootball 2022, Konami’s free-to-play football simulation game returns with another iteration – eFootball 2024.  This year carries the weight of high expectations after the previous entry’s rocky reception. 

So, does eFootball 2024 deliver the beautiful game experience it promises? Let’s delve into its strengths, weaknesses, and the overall direction of the franchise.

A Focus on Gameplay Refinement

This year’s eFootball prioritizes gameplay refinement over a complete overhaul. The core mechanics remain largely unchanged, but subtle improvements enhance the overall feel. Passing feels crisper, with a newfound emphasis on weight and direction. Dribbling maintains its responsive nature, allowing for tight control and creative maneuvers. Shooting retains its power, but requires a better understanding of player positioning and shot selection for consistent success.

The biggest improvement comes in player movement. Animations are smoother, particularly noticeable during tackles and collisions. Players react more realistically to loose balls, leading to a more dynamic experience. The defensive AI has also received a significant boost, making it more challenging to exploit space with pacey attackers. However, some clumsiness persists in complex situations, requiring further polishing.

Enhanced Strategic Depth

eFootball 2024 introduces a revamped tactical system that offers greater control over your team’s approach. Players can choose from a variety of formations and customize them further with detailed playstyles. These playstyles define your team’s attacking and defensive behavior, focusing on possession play, counter-attacks, pressing, or zonal marking. The system requires experimentation and adaptation, adding a layer of strategic depth for seasoned players.

Team management outside of matches sees some welcome improvements. The revamped training system allows for more targeted player development, focusing on specific attributes. Additionally, a new “Team Chemistry” system encourages building a squad with players who complement each other’s styles. This incentivizes using players from the same national team or league, fostering a sense of team identity.

The Return of Master League

Perhaps the most anticipated feature is the triumphant return of Master League, the beloved career mode absent in the previous installment. Master League offers players a chance to build a dream team, managing transfers, finances, and tactics to lead them to glory.  The mode retains its core structure, allowing players to take control of a club or a national team and guide them through leagues and cup competitions.

However, Master League doesn’t see a fundamental overhaul. While it’s a welcome addition, some aspects feel dated. Transfer negotiations and scouting lack depth, and player development feels repetitive. These areas could benefit from greater customization and player agency in the future.

Monetization Model: A Work in Progress

eFootball 2024 remains free-to-play, with microtransactions forming the core of its monetization strategy. Players can purchase in-game currency to acquire new players, manager avatars, and cosmetic items. While the base game offers a decent selection of teams and players, acquiring top players often requires utilizing microtransactions.

The current system fosters a concern about pay-to-win dynamics. While skill remains the primary factor in determining success, access to the best players can create an advantage. Konami has assured players that a fair competitive environment remains a priority, but further balancing may be necessary.

A Mixed Bag of Online Modes

Online play in eFootball 2024 offers a variety of modes. Ranked matches remain the pinnacle for competitive players, testing their skills against others. Casual matches offer a more relaxed experience, while co-op allows players to team up and take on challenges together. The online infrastructure shows significant improvement compared to the previous year, with fewer connection issues and smoother gameplay.

However, online modes lack diversity. While the core online experience is solid, the lack of innovative modes like online leagues or tournaments feels like a missed opportunity. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated online team management mode like “Club Pro” from previous FIFA iterations leaves a void for players who crave a more social online experience.

The Verdict: A Step in the Right Direction

eFootball 2024 is a clear improvement over its predecessor. The refined gameplay mechanics, enhanced strategic depth, and the return of Master League position it as a more compelling football simulation. However, the game doesn’t quite reach revolutionary status. The monetization model remains a point of contention, and online modes lack the variety seen in previous iterations.

**Overall, eFootball 2024 is a game on the rise. It offers a solid foundation for the future, with a focus on core gameplay that bodes well for the franchise. However, several key areas require further attention to truly challenge the established giants of the genre.

FAQs

How does the gameplay feel compared to eFootball 2022?

eFootball 2024 prioritizes refinement. Passing is crisper, dribbling is responsive, and shooting requires more skill-based positioning. Player movement is smoother, and the defensive AI provides a tougher challenge.

What are the biggest gameplay improvements?

Animations are smoother, particularly in tackles and collisions. The tactical system allows for greater control over formations and playstyles. Team chemistry encourages building a cohesive squad.

Is the game difficult to learn?

The core mechanics are accessible, but mastering tactics and mastering online play takes practice.

Master League:

Is Master League back in eFootball 2024?

Yes! You can manage a club or national team, guiding them through leagues and cup competitions.

How deep is Master League compared to previous iterations?

It’s a welcome return, but feels somewhat dated. Transfer negotiations and scouting lack depth, and player development could be more engaging.

Is Master League a good reason to play eFootball 2024?

If you enjoy career modes, absolutely. It offers a classic football management experience.

Monetization:

Is eFootball 2024 truly free-to-play?

Yes, but microtransactions are the main way to acquire top players, cosmetic items, and manager avatars.

Does the monetization model create a pay-to-win situation?

There’s a concern about it. While skill is important, access to the best players might give an edge. Konami assures a fair competitive environment, but balancing may be needed.

Are there other ways to earn good players without spending money?

Yes, through in-game challenges and rewards. However, it requires more time investment compared to just buying them.

Online Modes:

What online modes are available in eFootball 2024?

Ranked matches, casual matches, and co-op challenges offer different levels of competition and teamwork. The online infrastructure shows improvement in connection and gameplay.

Do online modes offer anything innovative compared to competitors?

No, unfortunately. There’s a lack of variety – online leagues, tournaments, or a dedicated online team management mode are missing.

eFootball 2024 improves on its predecessor with tighter gameplay, strategic choices, and the return of Master League. However, a pay-to-win shadow lingers, online modes lack depth, and Master League feels dated.

It’s a solid base, but crucial refinements are needed to compete with the big leagues. Try it if you’re a free-to-play football enthusiast, but look elsewhere for extensive online features or groundbreaking innovation.

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