FIFA Soccer 09 returns to the pitch with a focus on refining the controls and tactics established in previous versions of EA Sports' long-running soccer simulation. Specific attention has been given to controlled dribbling, shooting, passing, and more intelligent goalkeeper play, while new player momentum physics affect everything from slide tackles, to headers, to collisions. New to FIFA Soccer 09 is the Custom Team Tactics option that gives gamers access to more than 50,000 attack and defense options and allows for complete positioning customization.

The Be a Pro mode returns with an expanded campaign that lets gamers control an existing player, or create a completely original player, and then guide him through four full seasons -- improving passing, shooting, positioning, and defense along the way. Gamers can also participate in full seasons with all the real teams and players from the English Premier League, the Spanish La Liga, the French Ligue 1 Orange, the German Bundesliga, the Italian Serie A, and the Mexican Primera Division. Fifteen new stadiums have been added to the mix, with regionalized crowds and commentary adding to the atmosphere, and players looking for more competition can participate in ten-on-ten team play online.