I'm not sure what to think about PES2015. On one hand the gameplay is quite solid and so far pretty enjoyable, but on the other hand the production values and depth of the all-round package are nowhere near acceptable in 2014.
At first glance the game does look and feel far too much like PES2014. It's still a bit clunky and 'on-rails' at times, but fortunately many of the issues that made me vehemently dislike last year's game have been overcome or at least improved in PES2015. Responsiveness, shooting, crossing - all improved. Individuality is much more noticeable which is what it's all about for me. On the pitch, the game is moving forward at least and that's all that matters, right?
I'm not sure.
The all-round package is so inconsistent, and, in some areas downright shoddy, that I have to pinch myself to ask if this is a game from 2014. Content keeps going missing for no reason (stadia?) and no entrance scenes which is completely daft. Then there's the commentary which needs nuking from orbit. It's embarrassing.
The graphics, while perfectly serviceable, are appalling by modern PC standards. Graphical options are non-existent....again. I have every faith the modders can make the PC version the best-looking one, but it shouldn't have to be this way.
PES needs an overhaul in so many areas but after all these years I'm not seeing any signs that it will ever happen. The Fox engine promised so much but is delivering so little in the hands of PES Productions. They seem content to plod along with the same core gameplay engine, changing things up each year, sometimes getting it right, often not.
Without real change to drag PES kicking and screaming into the 21st century, Konami are "rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic", as the saying goes. In the end, futile.