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We had to give a review for a World Cup game with Wounded Hamster's new World Cup section, so here it is.
Well, the first impression you receive from the opening animation sequence is of colour, action and excitement - in other words, the essential elements that make the World Cup such a compulsive viewing experience. Cameras swoop across a packed Japanese stadium filled with flash cards, flash bulbs, streamers, giant flags and giant balloon figures as the players take to the field and the crowd roars on their approval.
To add to the sense of occasion, there's an additional bonus section that contains a number of filmed reports that provide some in-depth background to the event. Interviews are included with people from different nations expressing their passion for the game (typical quote: "A Brazilian who doesn't like football isn't a Brazilian") and what it means to be a supporter of their nation's team. Further discussions cover the impact of the tournament on Japan and Korea, a documentary on creating the original score for the game as well as an examination of the varied playing styles of the countries in the finals. A Highlights Reel also provides a whistle-stop tour through the game's graphics and camera angles to give you a flavour of what's in store.
The depth of the game is reflected in the large number of settings that can be altered both before and during each match. Match duration can last anything from 2 minutes to 45 and, during that time, bookings, offsides, injuries and fatigue can be switched on or off. Even the strictness of the referee can be controlled (i.e. random or defined) as well as the difficulty, game speed, player names and score display.
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