Review: Real Soccer HD for iPad

"Real Soccer HD" is a satisfying experience for both soccer fans and casual gamers. The game includes a surprising amount of depth with the inclusion of authentic player names and the whole gambit of soccer teams representing countries and clubs from the English Premier League.

The controls are fairly simple (it is soccer after all) with a virtual joystick and two buttons. A brief tutorial walks you through controlling players, playing defense, making passes and shooting goals. Controlling players with the joystick works well on the iPad screen. Sprinting involves moving one direction then sliding your finger further across the screen.

This was one of the few movements that was a bit awkward because it involves stretching out the thumb while trying to maintain a grip on the iPad . One of the cooler controls was throwing in the ball from out of bounds, which is accomplished by making a quick tossing motion with the iPad. Although keeping your eye on the screen while making an accurate toss can take some practice.

To change the player you are controlling, either tap on him or cycle through the player list located below the controls. This move might make one wish for three hands as it can give the fingers a workout to maintain control of player movement with the joystick, tapping to pass, shoot or steal and trying to change who you are controlling.

There are several levels of difficulty, and changing them makes a significant difference in gameplay . Combine a higher difficulty with a good opponent and the opposing players will make quicker passes, swifter shots and play better defense. When just starting out the easier levels provide opponents that will lay down before every one of your shots.

For soccer aficionados there is plenty of depth that makes the game like a soccer version of a Madden football game . There are several different modes to play, such as tournament, season, or exhibition. A season can include teams from throughout the world or just the Premier League. Players can even be edited for specific talent.

The graphics are decent, though the players could have a bit more animation and athleticism while some of the menu screens are a bit bland. However overall "Real Soccer HD" is another solid effort from Gameloft, which has distinguished itself as one of the best iPhone game developers.

Price: $6.99

File Size: 118 MB

Developer: Gameloft

Platform: iPad

iPadNewsDaily Rating (out of 4): ★★★

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