Sociable Soccer 24 aims to bring a nostalgic twist to the football gaming world, reminiscent of the simpler days of Sensible Soccer.
While it succeeds in offering straightforward gameplay, it falls short in several critical areas, leaving us questioning its sensibility in the modern gaming landscape.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Simple and Fun Gameplay
Sociable Soccer 24's gameplay is easy to pick up, capturing the essence of classic arcade-style football games.
The controls are straightforward, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.
The top-down view is a bit of a nod to Sensible Soccer (as is the name), allowing for quick and dynamic matches.
Players can pass, chip, and shoot with ease, and the aftertouch mechanic adds a layer of finesse, enabling impressive curling shots like cult-classic All Star Soccer on the PS1.
Momentum and Frustrations
However, the game's simplicity can also lead to frustration. Losing momentum often results in losing possession, demanding continuous movement and quick decision-making.
While this keeps the gameplay fast-paced, it can also be unforgiving for those who prefer a more strategic approach. Having said that, it's an Arcade-style game, so you kind of have to just go with the flow and ignore those thoughts of trying to strategise too much.
Features and Content
Extensive Player Roster
Sociable Soccer 24 boasts over 12,000 FIFPRO licensed players and 1,400 world teams, adding a layer of authenticity to the game.
Having real players like Harry Kane definitely enhances the experience, although many national clubs lack official names, which might be a drawback for some who didn't play the likes of Pro Evo in the past.
Career Mode and Customization
The Career Mode in Sociable Soccer 24 is underwhelming compared to its competitors like EA FC 24 and eFootball.
It lacks depth, offering a basic experience that may not satisfy those looking for a more immersive football management experience.
On the other hand, the inclusion of a card-based squad-building mechanic provides an alternative for fans of Ultimate Team-style gameplay.
Players start with random cards and unlock new ones as they progress, adding a collectable element to the game.
Presentation and Performance
Visuals and Animations
The overall presentation of Sociable Soccer 24 is solid, with decent player animations and smooth on-pitch action.
The visual style is clean, though it doesn't quite match the high standards set by modern football games, not that it is trying to.
Sound and Atmosphere
The audio design is adequate, but it doesn't particularly stand out.
The crowd noises and commentary do their job but lack the immersive quality found in more polished titles.
Pros and Cons
Positives
Simple yet engaging gameplay
Easy to pick up and play
Large roster of licensed players
Negatives
Plain and shallow Career Mode
Not as deep or refined as major competitors
Sociable Soccer 24 is a fun throwback to the golden days of football games, but it struggles to compete with contemporary titles in terms of depth and polish.
While it offers enjoyable moments and a significant player roster, it may not be enough to convince fans to switch from the giants of the genre, but it's a fun addition to your football gaming choices if you're looking for something a little bit different.
