Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

This Is Football delivers a depth of control that was groundbreaking at its release. From slide tackles and one-touch passing to sprint turns that let you shake off defenders, the game places precision firmly in the player’s hands. Whether you’re threading a through ball in the final third or pulling off a desperate last-ditch challenge, each input feels purposeful and weighty. The inclusion of optional offsides and fouls allows newcomers to ease into the sport, while veterans can toggle full realism for the authentic experience.

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Ball physics emphasize momentum and positioning. Dribbling around opponents often requires careful management of pace; burst runs must be timed perfectly to exploit gaps in the back line. Passing mechanics support both quick-fire exchanges and lofted switch-plays, giving you freedom to adopt a direct or possession-based strategy. The responsiveness of your teammates to off-the-ball calls adds another layer—you’ll learn to anticipate runs for that killer one-two.

A wealth of tournaments and friendly match options means you’re never short on challenges. From neighborhood kickabouts to marquee European showdowns, the pacing shifts appropriately—some games demand a methodical build-up, others reward fast breaks. The absence of a rigid career mode narrative is offset by the thrill of climbing through cups and leagues, with each knockout fixture feeling like a mini-final.

The learning curve can be steep, especially for gamers accustomed to arcade-style soccer titles. Mastery of sprint turns and nuanced tackling takes time, and early matches may feel unforgiving. However, once you internalize the control scheme, the payoff is immense: matches become strategic puzzles where positioning, timing, and skill execution all play vital roles.

Graphics

Thanks to FIFPro’s endorsement, This Is Football boasts over 5,000 real-life players complete with facial likenesses. Scanning technology of the era may not match today’s hyper-realistic standards, but for its time the player models stand out with recognizable features and squad-specific kits. Watching your favorite striker charge down the pitch in authentic colors enhances immersion in every fixture.

Stadiums from across Europe are faithfully rendered, each with its own architectural quirks and crowd behavior. The roar of the home supporters swells dynamically when you’re on a scoring run, and the arenas feel distinct—whether you’re under the floodlights of a big city ground or nesting in a more modest venue. Textures on the turf show wear and skid marks, giving each match a lived-in look.

Animation is fluid enough to convey momentum, from the slight lurch of a defender hauling back a winger to the celebratory gestures after a well-placed strike. Transition frames between dribbles and sprints are smooth, so the ball never feels glued to your feet. On slower machines, frame dips can occur during crowded penalty‐box scrambles, but these moments rarely detract from the overall spectacle.

Environmental details—fluttering corner flags, realistic weather effects, and dynamic shadows—round out the presentation. While some texture pop-in and jagged edges are visible at close range, the game’s visual strengths lie in its commitment to authenticity rather than sheer graphical muscle.

Story

Unlike narrative-focused soccer simulations, This Is Football doesn’t present a scripted story mode with cutscenes or character arcs. Instead, the game crafts its own drama through tournament progression. Every cup run or league campaign becomes your personal saga, where underdog victories and heartbreaking eliminations write their own emotional beats.

By stepping into managerial shoes, you shape your team’s destiny. Squad selection matters, and the stakes feel real when a narrow 1-0 semi-final defeat ends months of effort. The absence of voice-acted cutscenes might seem like a drawback, but it allows the on-pitch action to serve as the primary storyteller. Each match’s ebb and flow becomes the narrative engine.

Commentary, while limited by the era’s audio capabilities, adds color and context. Hearing a knowledgeable voice remark on a slick through-ball or a controversial tackle helps heighten those key moments. Crowd chants and stadium ambience further contribute, making big matches feel like genuine events rather than mere exhibitions.

If you’re seeking a traditional storyline—complete with managerial drama or player backstories—you won’t find it here. But as a canvas for your own soccer saga, the structure of leagues, cups, and continental tournaments provides a robust framework. Your triumphs become legends you recount long after the console powers down.

Overall Experience

This Is Football stands as a landmark in realistic soccer gaming, offering a control depth and authenticity that still resonate with simulation enthusiasts. The core mechanics challenge you to think like a coach and react like a pro, rewarding patience, timing, and tactical awareness. Casual players might initially struggle, but those who invest the time will uncover a richly rewarding system.

The sheer breadth of licensed content—5,000 players, 230 clubs, and 20 tournaments—means you’re always facing fresh matchups and competitive scenarios. Even without story-driven cutscenes, the game’s tournament structure and dynamic commentary ensure every fixture carries weight. Stadium variety and faithful likenesses serve to root you in each contest.

Graphically, it may not compete with modern releases, but its attention to realistic kits, player features, and atmospheric details was ahead of its time. Performance hiccups are rare, and the overall presentation remains charmingly immersive, especially when celebrating a last-minute winner or mounting a comeback in a pressure cooker final.

For players hunting an authentic soccer simulation on a classic console, This Is Football remains a must-play. Its balance of depth, licensing clout, and engaging matchday atmosphere make it a worthy addition to any footy fan’s library. Prepare for a challenging, strategic ride—and the satisfaction of mastering a true simulation pioneer.

Retro Replay Score

7.6/10