Played some more FIFA 09, and some Galaga, over the holiday weekend.  I now have resumed my perch at the top in terms of gamer points in the household, LOL.  Oddly, I don’t think my son noticed that, either!

Previously with FIFA 09, I had only played in “Be a Pro” mode.  I started a “Manager Mode” season on the Pro level, and man is it different!  I lost my first three games, but I’m showing signs of improvement, so I’m resisting the temptation to drop the difficulty level.  I like a challenge, and it’s no fun winning without being challenged.

In my first match, I gave up two goals while trying to figure out which camera angle to use in the first half, and was horribly out of position as a result.  I settled in to a camera view in the second half and gave up a lot fewer shots, and actually got one myself, but I was dominated 3-0.  I have no camera excuses for my second loss, 1-0, but I had better position, more tackles, and a few more shots, but I was still beat pretty good up and down the pitch.  It’s starting to come together, though, because in match 3, which I lost 2-1 (I scored!  Yeah!), the tackles and possession were about even, although I was still out shot significantly.  I’m making too many stupid controller mistakes, like having the keeper throw it out of bounds, and kicking it into the stands instead of crossing it.  However, as I develop the necessary muscle memory, I think this level will suit me, unless I get fired first!

One thing I’m not liking is how fatigue is modeled.  It seems like guys tire too easily.  Guys like Frankie Hejduk rarely if ever take a game off due to their outstanding fitness, yet two games in I really needed to give him a rest.  Otherwise, I’m really enjoying the game a soccer that FIFA 09 plays.