Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 introduces a robust “Road to the World Cup” mode that truly sets it apart from previous iterations. You select a national side and guide them through every stage of qualifying, adapting to different continental formats—from UEFA group play to South American round-robins. This progression gives a tangible sense of stakes as you battle for a spot in the finals, making each match feel meaningful rather than just another exhibition.

Outside of qualification, the game’s League Play lets you compete with or against 189 clubs across 11 official leagues. Whether you’re navigating a relegation scrap in England’s top flight or chasing titles in Serie A, the depth of competition keeps seasons fresh. Detailed team rosters and authentic kits enhance realism, and seeing your favorite club fight for glory adds a welcome layer of long-term engagement.

The on-pitch action moves faster than in past FIFA titles, thanks to tightened controls and deeper AI routines. Defenders press more intelligently, midfielders make smarter runs, and goalkeepers exhibit improved reactions. This increased pace rewards quick passing and tactical adaptation, ensuring veterans will be challenged while newcomers can still find accessible settings to learn the ropes.

Graphics

Visually, FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 takes a significant step forward. Sixteen distinct outdoor stadia are faithfully recreated, each with unique architecture, realistic pitch textures and varying weather conditions. Whether you’re playing under floodlights at a European arena or under a blazing sun in South America, the environments feel alive and differentiated.

Player models boast markedly improved facial features and hair styles, helping you instantly recognize star strikers and midfield maestros. Subtle touches—like the way jerseys wrinkle or the sheen of sweat on brows—add to the immersion. Animations are smoother overall, with crisp tackling, authentic goal celebrations and dynamic camera angles that capture the drama of big moments.

The audio design complements the visuals brilliantly. Every team has its own crowd chants integrated into the ambient soundscape, from raucous European ultras to rhythmic South American support. Matches are introduced by Des Lynam, while John Motson’s expert commentary and Andy Gray’s incisive analysis punctuate the action, making each game feel like a live broadcast.

Story

While FIFA isn’t known for a traditional narrative, the “Road to the World Cup” mode constructs its own engaging storyline. You experience the highs and lows of a national team’s journey—crucial victories, heartbreaking draws and last-minute comebacks. This arc fosters a real emotional attachment to your chosen squad, making the pursuit of glory more compelling than chasing endless friendlies.

Different continental qualification systems add variety to this narrative. In Europe, you navigate tight group tables where every point counts; in Africa, you weather tricky knock-out ties; in Asia and Oceania, you face a mix of group and playoff formats. These shifting stakes keep the story fresh and encourage you to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your squad in diverse competitive environments.

Presentation elements tie tightly into the progression, with unlockable highlights and in-tournament cinematics that simulate TV-style coverage. Seeing your team lifted onto a stage for the finals after months of effort provides a satisfying payoff. Though there’s no scripted dialogue or cutscenes, the evolving context of each match crafts its own memorable narrative moments.

Overall Experience

FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 offers one of the deepest soccer sim experiences of its era. The blend of authentic stadiums, licensed leagues and a dynamic qualification campaign delivers hours of varied gameplay. Whether you’re a casual fan looking to relive your country’s journey or a hardcore player chasing the perfect season, there’s something here to captivate you.

Minor drawbacks—such as occasional loading pauses between matches and the learning curve required to master high-level AI—are easily outweighed by the game’s strengths. The combination of speedier action, nuanced commentary and faithful presentation elevates it above many contemporaries, making each match feel like a true international spectacle.

In sum, FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 stands as a landmark sports title for its time. Its engaging modes, standout visuals and immersive audio package create a thoroughly enjoyable experience. For anyone seeking an authentic taste of World Cup qualification drama and the thrill of league competition, this edition remains a highly recommended purchase.

Retro Replay Score

8.2/10