EA seems to be hitting full stride when it comes to FIFA 08. First they announce that the PS3 and 360 versions will both run at 60 fps, and now they come out with the news that 5-8 weeks after the game is released, you’ll be able to download a free update adding 5-on-5 play online.
The upcoming mode – called Be a Pro: Online Team Play – allows two teams of 5 players to compete head to head. Like the offline mode, you’ll be able to stay locked on one player for the duration of the game, and the game’s camera will move accordingly. Go on the attack, for example, and it will zoom in on you.
In a nice move, EA is also offering the ability to play Be a Pro in a freeroaming mode, which will basically let you cycle between players like any other game. Do your friends want to stay focused on their favorite player while you’d rather switch back and forth between a few? No problem, because each player can choose their own setting, allowing teams to mix and match between locked on and freeroaming gamers.
"At EA SPORTS our dream is to create a full 11 versus 11 online gameplay experience in which each user will have a set position during the match and train specifically for that position," said Joe Booth, producer of FIFA Soccer 08. "Be A Pro is the first step in this direction, and now, with the ability to deliver five versus five online gameplay as free downloadable content, we are moving even closer towards the realization of this dream."
With the Interactive Leagues returning and this new feature, EA really seems like they’re working hard to make FIFA 08 a great online experience.
Now to wait for Madden’s turn…
