When EA originally showcased their all-new defensive system in FIFA 12, I couldn't see any problem with the act of stopping an opponent dribbling towards me. A tap of *circle* sticks a leg out to prod the ball away instead of the player doing it automatically. Simple.

Dribbling is much easier and more fun; Tweaked online head-to-head leagues; Multiplayer is amazing

The AI is an unrelenting beast; Solo experience is frustrating; New defending is tricky to learn

FIFA 11 was a very strange game, in that it brought out a myriad of reactions – often polar opposites – from us at different times during the game experience. The convergence of the offline game modes into one Career mode was a welcome move, as was the move to a less-automated passing system.

Tactical Defending is a great addition; Precision Dribbling gives players a lot more time on the ball; Nice; solid presentation

Impact Engine is a bit wonky in places; Both Online and Offline game modes are plagued with bugs

Superb: A hallmark of excellence. There may be flaws, but they are negligible and won't cause massive damage to what is a supreme title.

Whether you love or hate soccer, one thing's for sure: FIFA 12 is a masterclass in how to make a brilliant sports game. Here's why.

Pretty much everything; from the graphics and sound to the presentation and gameplay

So for the most part, FIFA 12 is a great update to the longstanding franchise. With some new online modes, tighter dribbling control, and a new procedural animation engine, the game can feel more like real-life at times.

+ New online and social features are welcome additions; + New defensive system is ultimately rewarding

- Presentation could use improvements; difficulty levels ramp up too quickly

FIFA is the type of game I always imagined would benefit greatly from 3D. The fast-paced fluidity of the visuals and gameplay could only seem much more impressive accompanied by the sensation of shots hurtling towards the player.

The Bad Career mode could still be more in-depth FIFA 12 is available to buy from Play.com. At HEXUS, we invite the companies whose products we test to comment on our articles. If any company representatives for the products reviewed choose to respond, we'll publish their commentary here verbatim.

FIFA 12 is the latest installment in the soccer franchise, adding a slew of new features such as a new impact engine to improve hit detection, a brand new passing system, improved AI, new lighting effects, a more ergonomic menu interface, and presentation matches to emphasize the atmosphere of the...

When I say it's the best sports game this year I mean it. Every time you play you'll experience something new and move towards accomplishing goals besides those that you score on the field. It's going to be hard for EA to top this one.

While not a massive step forward for the series, FIFA Soccer 12 manages to add a few interesting features and maintain the series' top spot in the genre.