UEFA Euro 2004

These midseason additions to the EA Sports lineup are always interesting. Euro 2004��s simulation of the European Cup makes it very specifically aimed at European soccer fans, and for this reason, it may not hold any attraction for you. But don��t overlook it if you enjoy a good game of footy, as it has a bunch of new features not found in FIFA 2004 and acts as a preview of the next full-blown FIFA.

First up, EA has tweaked the right analog stick moves, so now more than 10 skill moves exist, including stepovers and drag backs. The through-pass engine has been overhauled, so you no longer need psychic powers to pull off such an action effectively. There��s a new chip shot��and about bloody time, too��which you can use to lift the ball over the keeper.

Crossing the ball has been tweaked, but at least it works again (EA Sports shied away from crossing in the past few FIFAs since it allowed near-automatic scoring in FIFA 2001). The feature comes supplemented with an early cross modifier that lets you play the ball toward the penalty area from anywhere inside your opponent��s half.

Cosmetically, Euro includes nice effects like focus effects and light blooming (the ��new lens flare��). EA��s new commentary engine sounds a lot more natural, too, even if Motty sometimes says things a bit late, especially if you shoot the ball after quickly taking possession.

Because of the subject matter, Euro might not be worth the investment for all soccer fans. It��s a great preview of what will be seen in FIFA 2005, but unless you��re European (like me), you may just want to rent this as you wait a few months for the real deal.

RATING [111123]

SCORE! Great graphics, excellent soundtrack, cool preview of what��s next for FIFA

FOUL! Eurocentric focus means only true fans will want to play in the United States

Pub. EA Sports Dev. EA Sports ESRB Everyone MSRP $49.99

Copyright © 2004 Ziff Davis Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Originally appearing in Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine.