Unsurprisingly for the most popular sport on the planet, the demand for football-based games is huge. While the big players tend to dominate when it comes to console and PCs – though even there, there are some very interesting new kids on the block – the world of the app allows for a lot more creativity and flexibility. Here we look at the best 5 games currently available, each one representing a different genre.
5 Best Football Games Currently on the Market
1. FIFA 19: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
In terms of football games, this is the equivalent of the EPL, and not just because most of the players who actually ply their trade in England’s top division play this in their downtime. If it is good enough for the likes of Raheem Sterling, whose Manchester City side are slim favourites to win the title ahead of Liverpool in the real world, then who are we to argue?
EA Sports’ flagship offering is released every year, with updates on player profiles and other tweaks here and there. FIFA 19 is the first to feature full affiliation with the Champions League and is still the only one of the big hitters to include women’s teams.
It would be remiss not to mention FIFA’s great rival, Pro Evolution Soccer. Over the last two decades, these two have been battling for supremacy. Both sides have their loyal advocates, but FIFA has left its adversary behind in recent years courtesy of its significantly bigger budget. That said, when it comes to playability on the pitch PES comes out marginally on top, it is just let down by its off the field interfaces and menus.
2. Football Manager (PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android)
Not just one of the best football games ever devised, Sports Interactive’s Football Manager is also the most addictive game I have ever played. The sheer depth and realism of the gameplay means you can lose not just hours, but days, trying to steer your adopted club up the leagues. If you do have any spare time, there are numerous forums dedicated to the game, giving you the chance to talk tactics, recruitment, or simply brag about your treble winning season.
In recent editions there are options where you can delegate certain duties to other staff members, meaning you can focus more on the nitty gritty; but, even then, it is an all-encompassing, incredibly engrossing experience.
With a nod to the changing market, the developer has released a mobile version of the game, which looks and feels very similar to its bigger sibling, but with a pared down database and simpler gameplay. If you have never played this game before, the Android version may well be the place to start, as diving straight into the PC version can be daunting.
3. Football Tactics & Glory (PC)
Old school and unique are the best way to describe this offering from Creoteam. If you have never heard of it, the description will more than likely leave you nonplussed, especially if you are a fan of the two games mentioned above. Take it from me however, once you play it – and the sheer simplicity of the game means you can pick it up in no time – you will be hooked. This turn-based game is a delightful blend of a management game and a battle strategy one. With the clunky graphics and stilted dialogue, it may appear you have travelled back to a pre-Xbox era, but that is all forgotten pretty quickly, when the pure simplicity of the game drags you in. I am sure in years to come it will become slicker and more pleasing on the eye, my only fear is that they will end up throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
4. Top Eleven: (Android iOS)
If even the mobile version of Football Manager is too much to cope with, then Top Eleven from Nordeus could very well be the answer. It manages to remain simple, but still allows you to take over complete control of your chosen club. The other big plus for this game is that it is free!
5. Score! Hero: (Android)
A different take on the management game, in S!H – as it’s known amongst its devotees – you follow the path of one player, taking him from grass roots up to (hopefully) international glory. Simple, fun and addictive, the three main staples for mobile games. There are a shedload of footy games for Android but for me, this tops them all.