Shoot to thrill

GAME OF THE WEEK: 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, 3 cert, EA, PS3 (also Wii, Xbox 360, DS, PSP) ***

We may be out of the tournament, but Irish fans can still take part in the year's biggest football event from the comfort of their own home. EA's Fifa World Cup 2010is available across the different platforms, and coming so close to Fifa 2010, you might assume it was one to skip. However, the World Cup tie-in title not only improves on its predecessor in terms of gameplay, but it also adds in extra elements that make it a worthwhile purchase for any fan of football games.

Gameplay has been tweaked somewhat from Fifa 2010; it's more difficult, for a start. There's less of the "dumb luck" element that ensured the most unlikely shots could still hit home. It's also more realistic – your players will start to feel the effects of the change in altitude, for example.

But mindful of the game’s potential appeal to casual gamers, a two-button control system to pass and shoot has been added. So the less experienced among us will be able to enjoy the game without a steep learning curve, while veteran Fifa players can retain their original controls.

There’s a few new modes to keep you occupied. Captain Your Country mode will see your chosen player on a mission to impress the national team coach in a bid to earn the coveted title of squad captain.

There’s even a chance for Irish fans to rewrite history. Among the additions to the game is the new “Story of Qualifying” mode, which essentially allows you to right the wrongs of the qualifying matches – including, naturally, the crucial Ireland v France game that saw France qualify after the infamous Henry handball.

Should you prefer to leap right into the action, there’s an option to go straight to the finals. No matter which route you choose, you will be faced with stiff opposition and some stunning visuals. An excellent addition to Fifas franchise.