Sensible Soccer is an all-round awesome experience and is firmly placed in my top five favourite games of all time! This game is so addictive, it is very easy to lose 3-10 hours of time after telling yourself, 'I'll just play one more match then stop'.
I first experienced Sensible Soccer on my Atari ST (that's showing my age). Although I only had a demo, that was all I needed to be hooked on the experience. It wasn't until several years after when I found a PC version of the game that I really became addicted.
Firstly, the gameplay is what sets this game apart from many other sports games. Everything happens insanely quickly yet the player always feels in control. Setting up goals is an absolute pleasure, and actually scoring is an incredible feeling. I think this is due mainly to the fact that the player has so much control, as opposed to other soccer games such as the FIFA series. Sure, you have control in those games, but Sensi takes that control to another level.
The graphics are basic yet have an incredible charm. The soccer stars you control on pitch are so tiny, but it suits the game to a tee. Having such small players allows the gamer to look ahead with ease and set up plays that David
Beckham would be proud of.
Sound in Sensible Soccer is very cool. While the sound effects, such as the noise of kicking the ball around and the menu sounds, are adequate. However, the crowd sounds are absolutely brilliant. Whenever you get one past the goalie, you will soon hear chants of '1 nil, 1 nil'. This adds to the immersion so much. Incredible.
Perhaps the best and most addictive feature of Sensible Soccer is the insane level of depth it has. Not only can you play a decent game of soccer, you can take on the role of manager as well. Gamers can choose their nationality, pick a div 3 English league team, get them into the Premier League, and even become manager of the English International soccer team! And along that journey the gamer can earn (and lose money) and trade players from the huge database of teams and soccer stars, including the VERY local team I used to play for, Para Vista (in Adelaide).
Overall, this game is a must have. If you haven't already experienced this gem, get it today! Be warned however, you may need to put your social life on hold for a few weeks (or months).
