Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

International Superstar Soccer ’98 brings back the six core modes from ISS64—Exhibition, Cup, League, All-Star, Training, and Play-Off—with notable refinements that deepen the on-pitch tactics. Each mode feels more polished, thanks to tighter controls and a smarter AI that adapts to your style. Veteran players will appreciate the nuanced dribbling and precision passing that makes each match feel like a genuine contest rather than a button-mashing frenzy.

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New scenarios pepper the lineup, offering unique challenges such as scoring three goals in the final five minutes or defending a one-goal lead against a relentless attack. Though the game lacks official FIFA licensing, updated rosters mirror the squads seen in France ’98, giving you a sense of authenticity without the real names. Create-a-Player mode expands your strategic options further—design your own rising star, equip them with custom statistics, and slot them into your favorite national team.

ISS ’98 shines in its strategic depth, featuring offside traps, offensive plays, and built-in set-piece routines that let you orchestrate match-defining moments. Weather and lighting conditions—ranging from midday sun to rain-soaked turf and under-the-lights night matches—affect ball physics and player footing, creating a dynamic pitch environment. Tony Gubba’s commentary, supported by true surround sound, elevates the immersion, reacting to pivotal plays and keeping the adrenaline high.

Graphics

For a Nintendo 64 title, ISS ’98 pushes the hardware with detailed player models and smooth animations that capture the flow of real-world soccer. The six-time increased polygon count is most noticeable in close-ups, where you can appreciate the individual footwork animations and facial expressions—especially during goal celebrations and penalty kicks.

The addition of three stadiums inspired by France ’98 venues—complete with hand-painted banners and national flags—plunges you into an authentic World Cup atmosphere. Dynamic weather effects such as puddles forming on wet grass and shifting shadows under stadium lights enhance the visual fidelity. Crowds pulse with life, waving scarves and erupting in choreographed chants whenever you break the deadlock.

Lighting in ISS ’98 is more than mere aesthetics. Under-the-lights night matches feature lens flares and glowing stadium floodlights. Combined with textured grass that visibly changes from emerald green to muddy brown as the match progresses, the graphical package offers a sense of realism seldom seen in ’98 soccer titles on the N64.

Story

While International Superstar Soccer ’98 doesn’t feature a traditional story mode, it weaves narrative tension through its scenario challenges and Cup Mode progression. Each tournament match becomes a chapter in your personal soccer saga—whether you’re guiding an underdog nation to glory or defending the title of world champions.

The Create-a-Player feature adds a role-playing element: craft a rising star from zero reputation to legendary status. As you rack up wins and individual accolades, your created player gains XP and new skills, delivering an RPG-like story arc within a sports framework. These personalized narratives give every playthrough its own memorable highlights.

Replay value is bolstered by the variety of scenarios and the unpredictability of AI opponents. From last-minute comebacks to penalty shootouts in pouring rain, the game crafts its own drama. Even without a scripted plot, the ebb and flow of tournament progression and player development substitute seamlessly to deliver a compelling story experience.

Overall Experience

International Superstar Soccer ’98 stands as a must-have for soccer fans on the Nintendo 64. Its refined gameplay, strategic depth, and immersive audiovisual presentation create a deeply satisfying simulation experience. The blend of weather conditions, night play, and surround sound commentary keeps every match feeling fresh and engaging.

The lack of FIFA licensing might deter some purists, but the near-accurate rosters and official-looking kits fill that gap convincingly. Coupled with robust customization options—including the Create-a-Player suite and versatile formation editor—ISS ’98 empowers you to forge your own soccer legacy.

Overall, ISS ’98 strikes the perfect balance between arcade accessibility and simulation authenticity. Whether you’re diving into a quick match or embarking on a grueling World Cup campaign, the title delivers hours of replayable action and strategic soccer thrills that will satisfy both casual gamers and hardcore fans alike.

Retro Replay Score

8.4/10