PES 2020 On Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey gaming fanatics! Let's dive deep into PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch. Is it worth your time and money? What can you expect from this portable football experience? Get ready for a comprehensive guide that breaks down everything you need to know, from gameplay to graphics, and everything in between. We'll explore if PES 2020 on the Switch holds up against the competition and if it's a worthy addition to your game library. So, buckle up, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's kick off!
Understanding PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch
What is PES 2020?
First things first, what exactly is PES 2020? For those new to the football gaming scene, Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), now known as eFootball, is a long-standing competitor to EA's FIFA series. Developed by Konami, PES has always been known for its realistic gameplay mechanics and focus on player control. PES 2020 continued this tradition, aiming to deliver a true-to-life football simulation. On the Nintendo Switch, this meant bringing that experience to a portable console, allowing players to enjoy the game on the go. The aim was to replicate the console experience as closely as possible, offering a challenging and engaging football experience for fans. This also included various game modes, team customization, and online multiplayer. PES has always focused on strategic gameplay, where passes, shots, and player positioning require skill and planning. The game is all about the details; player animations, ball physics, and strategic team formations are integral to the gameplay. PES 2020 aimed to refine these elements for an even more immersive football experience.
Key Features of PES 2020 on Switch
When PES 2020 launched on the Nintendo Switch, it had several key features designed to appeal to both seasoned PES veterans and newcomers alike. One of the most significant aspects was its portable nature. You could enjoy a full-fledged football game anywhere, anytime. The Switch version incorporated many of the same features as the console versions, albeit with some graphical compromises to ensure smooth performance on the hybrid console. Key features included: Master League, a career mode where you manage a team from the ground up; myClub, a mode where you build and manage your dream team, similar to FIFA's Ultimate Team; and exhibition matches, which allow you to play quick games with various teams. Furthermore, PES 2020 on Switch offered online multiplayer, letting you compete against other players worldwide. This competitive aspect added a layer of replayability and allowed you to test your skills against a variety of opponents. The game also included licensed teams and players, enhancing the authenticity of the gaming experience. Ultimately, the Switch version of PES 2020 tried to blend the portability of the Switch with the deep, strategic gameplay that PES is known for. It wasn’t just a port; it was an attempt to deliver the complete PES experience to a portable platform.
How Does PES 2020 Compare to Other Switch Games?
How does PES 2020 stand up against other games on the Nintendo Switch? The Switch has a diverse library, so how does PES fit in? When we compare PES 2020 to its competitors, it primarily competes with FIFA, which also has a presence on the Switch. The key differentiator is the approach to gameplay. PES 2020 focuses on realism, emphasizing precise player control, tactical depth, and strategic team play. FIFA, on the other hand, might focus more on arcade-style fun, with quicker gameplay and an emphasis on flashy animations. The portability of the Switch gives PES 2020 a unique edge. Being able to play a full football game on the go is a significant advantage over playing on stationary consoles. Furthermore, the game's graphics, while not on par with the higher-powered consoles, are still respectable on the Switch, allowing for an enjoyable gaming experience. In the context of the Switch's overall game library, PES 2020 fills a specific niche. For football enthusiasts who value strategic gameplay and realism, it is a great choice. It also works as a great alternative to games like Mario Kart and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, offering a different style of gameplay that can be enjoyed in short bursts or longer gaming sessions. The ability to play online also ensures that the game can hold up to the other games on the Switch.
Diving Deep into Gameplay and Graphics
Gameplay Mechanics of PES 2020
The gameplay in PES 2020 on Nintendo Switch centers on a commitment to realism and player control. The developers, Konami, made sure that the mechanics were finely tuned to deliver a true-to-life football experience. Key gameplay features include precise passing, which requires careful aiming and timing; the ball physics respond realistically to every touch, pass, and shot; and player movements which were designed to mirror real-life football players, including animations and physical attributes. The Switch version maintains the same core gameplay mechanics as the console versions. This includes: the refined shooting system, which allows for different shot types depending on how you hit the ball; and dribbling, which gives you complete control over the ball with intricate moves and feints. Furthermore, strategic team play is vital. You’ll need to adjust your tactics, set pieces, and formation to outperform your opponents. The AI has also been improved, making the gameplay more challenging and engaging. For football purists, PES 2020 offered a deep, strategic, and rewarding experience on the Switch.
Graphics and Performance on Nintendo Switch
Let’s discuss graphics and performance on the Nintendo Switch. The Switch isn't the most powerful console out there, so compromises are often made to ensure smooth gameplay. PES 2020 on the Switch, therefore, had to balance visual fidelity with performance. While the graphics weren’t as crisp or detailed as on the PS4 or Xbox One, they were still respectable, and the game ran smoothly in both docked and handheld modes. The visuals managed to deliver a decent representation of players, stadiums, and the overall atmosphere of a football match. Konami optimized the game to maintain a consistent frame rate, which is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience. The textures and lighting are decent, allowing you to immerse yourself in the matches. This means that while it doesn't match the graphical prowess of its competitors on more powerful hardware, the Nintendo Switch version still offers a playable and engaging experience. The Switch's portability allows you to enjoy the game anywhere, making the graphical trade-off a worthwhile compromise for many players. Ultimately, the performance of PES 2020 on the Switch provides a good balance between graphics and smooth gameplay, ensuring an enjoyable experience. The Switch is not known for its graphical power, but the game is still enjoyable.
Game Modes and Features: What to Expect
Master League and MyClub: Career and Team Building
Master League and myClub are two of the most popular modes in PES 2020, and they're both available on the Nintendo Switch. The Master League is a career mode where you take control of a football club. You manage everything from the team’s players, training, and finances. The goal is to build your club into a top team by scouting players, making strategic signings, and leading your team to victory in various competitions. This mode offers a deep and immersive experience, where every decision you make has an impact on the team's success. On the other hand, myClub is all about building your dream team. This mode lets you scout players, sign them to your squad, and then train them to improve their skills and stats. You earn in-game currency by playing matches, which you can use to acquire new players or upgrade your team. The myClub mode includes online matches against other players, adding a competitive element to the game. Both Master League and myClub provide hours of gameplay, providing unique experiences that are perfect for both solo players and those who enjoy online competition. These game modes give you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the world of professional football management and player acquisition.
Exhibition Matches and Online Play
Exhibition matches and online play are essential features of PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch. Exhibition matches are quick, customizable games where you can choose your teams, set the match conditions, and play against the AI or a friend locally. They’re perfect for a quick match when you don’t have much time or if you want to test out different team formations. Online play is where PES 2020 truly comes to life. You can compete against other players worldwide in various modes. These include ranked matches, where you can climb the leaderboards, or friendly matches with your friends. Playing online requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, and it offers a chance to prove your skills and compete for bragging rights. The online features also provide regular updates and events, which will keep the game fresh and engaging. This means you can continually play against new opponents with different skill sets. Exhibition matches give you a quick way to dive into the action, and online play opens up the game to a wider audience, providing a competitive, social, and ever-evolving experience.
Licensed Teams and Players in PES 2020
The licensing of teams and players is an important part of any football game. PES 2020 had a mix of licensed and unlicensed content on the Nintendo Switch. While the game featured many real-world teams and player names, it didn’t have the same level of licensing as EA’s FIFA series. Some of the top European leagues, such as the English Premier League, had mostly unlicensed teams, with generic names and kits. However, PES 2020 included licensed teams from other leagues, such as FC Barcelona, Juventus, and Manchester United. Furthermore, the game includes player likenesses, which is crucial for authenticity. Famous players such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are accurately represented. This mix of licensed and unlicensed content does affect the authenticity, but the game still provides a realistic football experience. Despite the lack of full licensing across all leagues, PES 2020 compensated with its solid gameplay and in-depth player mechanics. The player community often fills the licensing gaps with custom options. Overall, the licensed content in PES 2020 on the Switch enhanced the overall playing experience, bringing some of the biggest names and teams to the game.
Pros and Cons of Playing PES 2020 on Switch
Advantages of the Switch Version
There are several advantages to playing PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch. First and foremost, the portability aspect is unmatched. Being able to play a full football game anywhere, anytime is a huge selling point. This allows you to enjoy matches during your commute, on breaks, or while traveling. The Switch version also has a lower price point compared to the versions on more powerful consoles, making it accessible to a wider audience. The ability to play in both docked and handheld modes also offers flexibility. You can play on your TV with the Joy-Cons or on the go with the screen. Moreover, the Switch version maintains the core gameplay mechanics that PES is known for, providing a deep and rewarding experience. This means you get the same tactical depth and strategic gameplay, whether you're playing at home or on the move. The Switch's Joy-Cons also allow for multiple control setups. Overall, the Switch version offers a convenient and flexible way to enjoy PES 2020, making it a great option for football fans who want to play on the go.
Disadvantages and Limitations
Despite its advantages, PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch also has its limitations. The primary disadvantage is the graphical quality. The visuals are not as crisp or detailed as on the PS4 or Xbox One. This is due to the Switch's hardware limitations. The licensing issues can be a drawback, as some teams and leagues are not fully licensed. This can affect the authenticity of the gaming experience if you're a fan of those leagues. Another limitation is the processing power. In some instances, this can affect the overall performance. Load times may be slightly longer, and the game may not run as smoothly as the versions on more powerful consoles. Lastly, the online community may be smaller compared to the console versions. This can make it harder to find matches or participate in online events. For players who prioritize top-tier graphics, extensive licenses, and a large online community, these disadvantages may influence their decision.
Verdict: Is PES 2020 Worth It on Switch?
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
So, is PES 2020 worth it on the Nintendo Switch? The answer depends on your priorities as a gamer. If you value portability and want a deep, strategic football experience on the go, then PES 2020 is definitely worth it. The gameplay mechanics are solid, the game modes offer hours of entertainment, and the ability to play anytime, anywhere, is a major advantage. On the other hand, if you are looking for top-tier graphics and complete licensing, or if you primarily play online and want a large player base, you might prefer the version on a more powerful console. However, if you're a casual fan who just wants to play a bit here and there, the Switch version of PES 2020 is perfectly capable of delivering a fun, immersive experience. Overall, PES 2020 offers a very strong foundation for gameplay. The Nintendo Switch provides a unique way to enjoy this version of the game. For football fans who want a portable and engaging experience, PES 2020 on the Nintendo Switch is a good option.
Alternatives and Considerations
Before making a decision, consider other options. If you're looking for a football game on the Switch, FIFA is your main alternative. FIFA might offer superior licensing and graphics but could lack the tactical depth that PES is known for. Compare the gameplay styles and see which aligns with your preferences. Furthermore, think about what you value in a football game. Do you prioritize graphics and licenses or gameplay and portability? Also, take into account the price. PES 2020 might be available at a lower price than newer games. Assess your gaming habits and needs. Do you play mostly in handheld mode or docked? The portability of the Switch is a key selling point. Do you play online regularly? Check the size of the online community before deciding. All of these factors can help you make an informed decision on whether PES 2020 is the right choice for you.
In conclusion, PES 2020 on Nintendo Switch is a good option for people who love the sport, and want a portable way to play it. By considering these points, you can make the best choice for your gaming needs.
