Previous Next

The sequel to MicroProse Soccer features an innovative 3D perspective, viewed from just behind the ball with you always playing 'into' the screen. Shooting/passing involves holding down fire to increase the power, and then moving the joystick to put height, direction and swerve onto the ball - on the easiest of three skill levels, passes are automatically aimed. As in Kick Off 2, you can either control a single player or switch between team members (excluding the automatic goalie).

You can either play in a fictional world club Superleague, or try to win the World Cup, and save your position to disk. Extensive practice options allow you to perfect passing, penalty kicks, goalkeeping (on penalties) and corners.

I've seen so many footie games in this World Cup year, I'm sick of the things. But at least Soccer Challenge doesn't use the dreary old plan or side view like 99.756% of them. The pseudo-first person graphics work well if not for the speed; the filled 3D pitch and stadium move as slowly as the sprites, which is a great shame because they're very well drawn and animated.

Control is sluggish and although the sense of depth works well, any players behind your viewpoint are only visible on the radar. Most football fans will already have the best, Kick Off 2, and Soccer Challenge's 3D isn't enough to seduce those who haven't.

The 3D view must have seemed a good idea at the time time, but sadly it just doesn't come off: as well as being a bit jerky, it's too slow for the supposedly high pace of a football game.

It also means that there can't be a two-player mode - usually the best option in sports sims. As with MicroProse Soccer, the ball is glued to the player's foot, so no skill is needed to dribble - contrarily, tackling the opposition is very tricky.

It's also easy to score with a set routine of running diagonally at goal and swerving your shot. This one's no substitute for Kick Off 2.

Presentation 78%
World Cup, Superleague, practice and save options.

Graphics 68%
Innovative but sluggish 3D.

Sound 35%
Brief crowd sample, dull thwacks and unbelievably feeble tune.

Hookability 58%
Simple soccer fun.

Lastability 35%
Soon becomes repetitive.

Overall 45%
Even Shilts couldn't save this one!