Welcome to the beautiful game... sort of. FIFA 20 has graced our consoles with its presence, flaunting new features like a flashy trophy from a long-lost relative. Is it a goal-scoring machine, or does it flop harder than an amateur on penalty kicks? Buckle up, as we dribble our way through this review in true FIFA fashion—full of excitement, questionable decisions, and maybe a few red cards.
First and foremost, let’s talk about gameplay. FIFA 20 introduces VOLTA Football. Yes, if you've ever wished your favorite soccer players would swap grass fields for gritty urban streets, then you are in luck! VOLTA means street-style three-a-side matches, where the rules are looser than your uncle after Thanksgiving dinner. Freestyling your way through opponents, you can create personalized players that, we dare say, actually look a bit like you, complete with your stylish headgear— if your style is ripped jeans and an extravagant bun, that is. In addition to VOLTA, the 11v11 matches continue like a well-worn script. However, the game tries to spice things up with new penalty and free-kick mechanics that may have you questioning if you really want to give that responsibility to your friend. Penalties now require precision and timing, as you can feel the tension spike like your heart rate during a last-minute corner kick. It’s like learning to dance: painful at first, but oh, the rewards! As for the Career Mode, some might argue that it’s been through a little turbulence—like a plane on approach. EA promised some updates to make it shine more. Unfortunately, bugs are the only things sparkling in this mode, making players feel like they’re getting back punched by virtual managers who field oddly weak teams. Everyone's favorite hashtag #FixCareerMode trended faster than a player diving in the penalty box.
Visually, FIFA 20 is a knockout! Players look like they stepped straight out of the screen—complete with moves as smooth as their pixelated hair. Commentary is delivered by the classic dream team of Martin Tyler and Alan Smith, who might be more reliable than your own family during a trivia contest! The stadiums are a beauty to behold, having unique designs that encapsulate the atmosphere like a well-made burrito, all packed in tight with flavor. Each venue sings its own tune—just not the kind of tune you'd want to hear at 3 AM, unless it's your neighbor's dog. Despite its eye-candy appeal, the graphics still can’t hide some gameplay hiccups. Let it be known, players occasionally resemble deer on ice, crashing and tumbling during those heated confrontations. Maybe I should lend them my ice skates—because they clearly need help gaining their footing!
In conclusion, FIFA 20 kicks its way onto the pitch with more twists than a soap opera. While it brings excitement with VOLTA and a dazzling array of player likenesses, it stumbles over the same issues we've come to expect, like a player getting red-carded for an apparent nonexistent foul. With a mix of thrilling highs and frustrating lows, our ultimate dream of perfection still feels out of reach. Still, if you love football, it’s hard not to dive into the FIFA universe—if only to escape reality for a while and embrace that sweet, simulated glory. So grab your controller, summon your inner Messi, and remember: even if you trip, at least you'll look good doing it. FIFA 20 gets a solid 7.5 out of 10. May your offside traps be successful, and your connection with your friends play like a beautiful through-pass!