This Is Football (TIF) made its debut in 1999, developed by Sony’s Team Soho for PlayStation. The game series quickly gained attention due to its engaging mix of simulation-style football with a more arcade-like twist, setting it apart from rivals like FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer (PES). While FIFA and PES leaned toward realism, TIF embraced more playful mechanics, offering unique gameplay features like player-controlled dives and aggressive two-footed tackles. These elements gave players the freedom to either play fairly or “bend the rules” for a more entertaining experience.
This Is Football Gameplay
The original This Is Football introduced over 200 real-life teams, including famous clubs and national sides, with competitions like the World Cup and Champions League. Accompanied by professional commentary from Clive Tyldesley, this helped create a more immersive experience for players. Its 3D graphics were ahead of their time, providing smooth match gameplay and realistic player movements, which were a significant step forward for football video games at the time.
As the series evolved, This Is Football 2002 built on its predecessor by enhancing graphics, player animations, and AI. It also expanded the range of leagues and tournaments available to players. A standout feature introduced during this time was “Jumpers for Goalposts,” a game mode that allowed players to live out the nostalgic dream of playing football in a local playground, working their way up from Sunday leagues to becoming top professionals. This charming addition gave the game a sense of authenticity that struck a chord with fans who grew up playing football on the streets.
By the time This Is Football 2005 hit the shelves, the series had expanded its offerings significantly. With over 935 teams and a staggering 19,000 real players, it was a football fan’s dream come true. Players could dive deep into the world of football with an expansive selection of teams from 32 countries, competing in both domestic leagues and international tournaments. This breadth of content was complemented by new gameplay mechanics, including advanced ball physics and improved tactical options, which added layers of strategy to the game.
Competition for This Is Football
However, despite its innovations, This Is Football faced stiff competition from both FIFA and PES, which were rapidly gaining popularity due to their focus on realism and increasingly polished gameplay. The rise of these competitors, particularly during the era of PES 4 and FIFA 2005, eventually led to the discontinuation of the This Is Football series after the release of This Is Football 2005. Nonetheless, TIF has left a lasting legacy, remembered fondly for its quirkier approach to football, offering something that neither FIFA nor PES did at the time—a lighthearted take on the beautiful game with the freedom to play dirty or fair, and a hefty dose of nostalgia.
For those looking to experience the excitement of football-themed games in today’s gaming world, there are many options available in the online casino space. Licensed platforms offer a wide variety of games that bring the thrill of football into the world of slots and casino games. On these platforms, players can explore football-inspired slots, where the excitement of scoring goals is combined with the chance to win jackpots.
In addition to football-themed games, Casino777.ch also offers a classic selection of other popular games, including online roulette, blackjack, and live dealer games. Roulette, in particular, continues to be a fan favorite, allowing players to enjoy the suspense of watching the ball spin around the wheel and land on their chosen number. This fusion of sports themes and traditional casino games creates a unique gaming environment where fans of both football and classic casino experiences can find something they enjoy.