This Is Football is a celebrated football video game series developed by the SCEE Internal Development Team, renowned for blending arcade accessibility with comprehensive simulation features. Originally launched on the PlayStation in 1999, the franchise quickly gained traction for its authentic player data and engaging management modes. Over the years, the series expanded to include installments for the PlayStation 2 and PSP, with the latest noted entry being This Is Football 2005. The game is known by various regional titles, including World Tour Soccer in North America and Fußball Live in Germany, reflecting its broad international appeal.

Gameplay and Mechanics in This Is Football

The core appeal of This Is Football lies in its unique position between pure simulation and arcade action. The gameplay offers an "arcade feel" reminiscent of classic soccer titles, making controls intuitive while retaining tactical depth. Players utilize an analog stick to execute a wide array of maneuvers, including precise passing, shooting, headers, and special moves activated via shoulder buttons. Mechanics range from slide tackles and hook tackles to volleys and foot smothers. While the series strives for realism with accurate player modeling and authentic sound effects, it maintains a fast-paced rhythm that rewards technical proficiency. Some entries note that the AI can be inconsistent, with defenders occasionally failing to track back, which adds to the unpredictable nature of the matches.

Comprehensive Rosters and Realism

Authenticity is a cornerstone of the series. Later entries feature the FIFPro license, boasting over 14,000 real players and approximately 700 teams, including major national sides and lower-division clubs from England, Spain, and Italy. Players are accurately modeled with detailed facial features and beards, contributing to a visually authentic experience. The game also includes realistic sound effects, capturing the atmosphere of the pitch with authentic ball strikes and crowd noise. Commentary is provided by Clive Tyldesley in the original 1999 release, with Peter Drury taking over voice duties in subsequent installments.

Notable Features and Modes

  • Career and Management Depth: The series offers robust career modes where players can manage a schoolboy team and guide them to professional glory, or take control of any club with a starting budget. A sophisticated transfer engine allows for buying and selling players.
  • Custom Team Creation: Users can design their own squads, customizing names, kits, player positions, and even individual physical and facial attributes to build a dream team.
  • Innovative Tech: This Is Football 2005 introduced EyeToy Cameo support, allowing players to capture their face and superimpose it onto a player character for personalized replays.
  • Multiplayer and Online Play: The franchise supports extensive multiplayer options, including local play via MultiTap for up to eight players, co-op modes, and network play for online challenges in later versions.
  • Challenge Mode: Players can test their skills in rated matches and submit passwords to compete on official world rankings.

Platform Availability and Appeal

This Is Football is available across multiple Sony platforms, including the original PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and PSP. The setting spans the global football landscape, from local lower-division clubs to the pinnacle of international competition, featuring leagues and tournaments such as the World Cup and Euro. The series appeals to a diverse audience, from hardcore football managers seeking detailed career progression to arcade gamers looking for accessible, fun multiplayer sessions. With features like pre-game customization of referee strictness and time of day, customizable teams, and a vast selection of content, it caters to both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts. Whether experiencing the nostalgic charm of the PS1 era or the enhanced features of later versions, This Is Football remains a definitive choice for soccer simulation fans.