Retro Game of the Week 141: International Superstar Soccer (SNES)

This is one of the first ever good soccer games we ever got and boy was it a difficult one to master as well. ISS is one of those underrated games mainly because soccer wasn't a big deal back in the early 90s in the USA that is until the World Cup in 1994 woke up the hidden passion of sport fans everywhere. This in my opinion is one of the better soccer games for the console and definitely a lot of fun to play against a friend. 

There is not much music in this game. Only music you'll hear is of the menu in the beginning of the game. The rest is just the crowd at the stadium cheering you on. It's only to make it realistic. The sound effects are pretty good although at times you'll feel like you have hit someone with a pipe instead of with your legs. There are some voice recordings especially when the ball goes out of play or you get a card. 

The graphics are amazing. They're colorful and realistic! The players all have the same model for the most part but that's acceptable since it is a game where all have the same career therefore are prepared the same way. It's not like you'll find a fat guy running on the pitch or something. 

The gameplay is tough! You'll have to have some patience with this game especially if you're playing your first ever soccer game. The goal keeper is incredibly tough to beat. He's literally like a brick wall. If you decide to use a sucky team against a good team, you'll suffer a lot! With some patience, you'll be able to get through it and most of all, have fun.

The game is just a lot of fun to pick up and play. There is an arcade feel to this game so definitely enjoyable at random times. You want to challenge yourself? Put the game in max difficulty but don't blame me when you destroy the controller from losing 10-0 ! 

This is a solid title that started the Winning Eleven series back in Japan. Konami now releases this series as Pro Evolution Soccer in the States. This game has definitely evolved and actually gotten some licensing from teams and players. As FIFA succumbed, Winning Eleven rose up to the challenge. Till next week! ^_^