Experience the beautiful game on the go with FIFA 17 on the PlayStation Vita. Despite its small screen, this portable powerhouse delivers an incredible football gaming experience, allowing you to take the pitch anywhere you go.
Sony's handheld device might not have the horsepower of its bigger brothers, the PS4 and Xbox One, but EA Sports has optimized FIFA 17 specifically for the Vita, ensuring you can enjoy the game's signature blend of realism and fun, albeit with some compromises.
Gameplay and Modes
FIFA 17 on the Vita offers the same core experience as its console counterparts, including Kick-Off, Career Mode, and Ultimate Team. The latter, using FUT Draft, is particularly impressive, as it lets you build and manage your dream squad using real-world players and card packs.
The controls are intuitive and responsive, with the Vita's dual analog sticks and back button performing various functions like passing, shooting, and crossing. Though the screen's size could make precision shots challenging, the gameplay remains highly enjoyable.
Career Mode
Manage your favorite team or create your own as you strive to dominate the world of football. Engage in transfer negotiations, training sessions, and tactical planning to mold your squad into champions.
With four difficulty levels and the option to simulate matches, Career Mode provides ample replayability, making it an excellent choice for long commutes or downtime between meetings.
Ulitimate Team
Collect and trade player cards to build your own squad in FIFA 17 Ultimate Team. Compete against other players online or offline, and aim to rise to the top of the leaderboards.
Using your personal collection of players, manage your squad's chemistry and form, and test your strategic prowess against opponents from around the globe.
Visuals and Sound
The Vita's hardware pushes EA Sports' Ignite engine to its limits, but FIFA 17 still manages to look and sound impressive. Player models and animations are top-notch, and stadium environments are realistic and atmospheric. The tereminal's speakers deliver clear and immersive audio, although using headphones will undoubtedly enhance the overall experience.
Commentary, provided by Martin Tyler and Alan Smith, is engaging and insightful, capturing the ebb and flow of the game. However, be prepared for some repetition, as is common with console and PC games.
Multiplayer
Compete against friends or strangers in online matches, with support for ten vs. ten matches and ranking systems to track your progress and skill level.
Using the Vita's ad-hoc mode, you can also play against others locally without an internet connection. This feature is an excellent selling point for those who prefer offline gaming or have limited connectivity on the go.
In conclusion, FIFA 17 on the PlayStation Vita may not boast the same level of graphical prowess or gameplay depth as its console and PC counterparts, but it's a more than capable portable alternative that keeps the passion for football alive while you're away from home. If you're a fan of the series and looking for a handheld fix, FIFA 17 on the Vita is well worth picking up.