Pro Evolution Soccer Now Named eFootball and is Free-To-Play

Konami has decided to do a global rebrand of the long-standing football game franchise Pro Evolution Soccer.

Now called eFootball, the game is set to launch during the autumn season as a free-to-play, download-only title that will expand over time and is available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC. An Android and iOS version has also been announced, and the game will allow cross-play across all platforms.

An initial roadmap and features update has been revealed, but we still don’t have a clear picture of the multitude of changes to the traditional Pro Evolution Soccer formula. eFootball will function in the same way as other free-to-play games, with in-game purchases and advertising, and all versions will function the same across all consoles.

In addition, the game plans to take a “platform” approach with regards to updates, so players can expect roster updates, new kits, and visual & gameplay changes annually.

The roadmap shows the game will launch with nine clubs to play in local exhibition matches, with other modes arriving as DLCs. We will get mobile controller support, full cross-play, and the launch of professional and amateur eSports tournaments in winter.

Option Files will also be available, with support coming post-launch. Supposedly, the game will also include Battle Pass-like unlocks called Match Passes, but we don’t have any mentions on things such as MyClub or Master League.

Konami has built this game on an Unreal Engine base to improve all areas of the game and created a new “motion matching” system, similar to the new HyperMotion feature coming to FIFA 22, which is designed to make player movements more realistic.

Given that unreal Engine’s development speed is one of the fastest among game engines, its scalability makes it perfect for mobile and next-gen platforms.

This new identity may be exactly what this franchise needs. PES has been struggling over the last decade, so this radical shift may be enough to bring back old fans and win them new ones.

About eFootball

eFootball, previously Pro Evolution Soccer, is a football simulation game developed and published by Konami. The series is undergoing a rebrand and will now be a free-to-play, download-only experience.