PES 2021 On Nintendo Switch: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Are you thinking about grabbing PES 2021 for your Nintendo Switch? Well, let's dive deep and figure out if it’s a smart move for you. We'll break down the gameplay, graphics, features, and overall experience to help you make the best decision. No fluff, just the real deal.

Gameplay: Can You Feel the Beautiful Game?

When we talk about PES 2021, gameplay is often the first thing that comes to mind, right? On other platforms, the series is known for its realistic and engaging soccer simulation. But how does it hold up on the Nintendo Switch? The short answer is... it's complicated. The gameplay mechanics are largely intact, providing a similar feel to the console versions, which is a great start. You'll find that passing, shooting, and player movements try to mimic real-life soccer, but there are some notable differences.

One of the first things you might notice is that the game speed feels a tad faster than other versions. This can make the game feel more arcade-like, which some players might enjoy, but it can also detract from the realistic simulation that PES is known for. Player responsiveness is generally good, but there can be occasional input delays, especially when playing in handheld mode. This can be frustrating when you're trying to make quick decisions on the field.

Another aspect to consider is the AI. In PES 2021 on the Switch, the AI can be a bit inconsistent. Sometimes your teammates make smart runs and provide good support, but other times they seem to be caught napping. Defensively, the AI can be a mixed bag as well. You might find yourself yelling at the screen as your defenders inexplicably leave gaping holes in the backline. Despite these shortcomings, the gameplay can still be enjoyable, especially if you adjust your expectations and play to the game's strengths. Learning to anticipate the AI's quirks and adapting your play style accordingly can help you find success on the pitch.

Graphics: A Visual Compromise?

Okay, let's talk graphics. Let's be real, the Nintendo Switch isn't exactly a powerhouse when it comes to graphical capabilities, especially compared to the PlayStation or Xbox. As such, PES 2021 on the Switch requires some visual compromises. Don't expect the same level of detail and fidelity that you would see on other platforms.

The player models, for instance, are noticeably less detailed. Faces can look a bit generic, and the overall level of realism is reduced. The stadiums also lack some of the visual flair and atmosphere found in the more powerful versions. Textures can appear muddy, and the lighting effects are simplified. However, it's not all doom and gloom. The game still manages to be visually appealing, especially in handheld mode, where the smaller screen helps to mask some of the graphical limitations. The frame rate is generally stable, which is crucial for a smooth gameplay experience. While it may not be the prettiest game on the Switch, it's certainly not the worst either.

It's all about managing your expectations. If you go in expecting a visual masterpiece, you're going to be disappointed. But if you're willing to accept some graphical compromises in exchange for playing PES 2021 on the go, then you might find the visuals to be perfectly acceptable. After all, gameplay is king, right?

Features: What's Included?

So, what about the features in PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch? Does it offer a robust set of game modes and options to keep you entertained? Well, let's take a look. You'll find many of the standard game modes that you would expect from a PES title, including:

• Master League: This is the classic career mode where you take control of a team and guide them to glory. You'll be responsible for managing your squad, scouting new players, and making tactical decisions on the field. It's a mode that can provide hours of entertainment, especially if you're a fan of in-depth management simulations.
• Become a Legend: In this mode, you create your own player and guide them through their professional career. You'll start as a young hopeful and work your way up the ranks, honing your skills and earning a place in the starting lineup. It's a fun way to experience the game from a different perspective.
• MyClub: This is PES's answer to FIFA's Ultimate Team. You collect players, build your dream squad, and compete against other players online. It can be addictive, but be warned that it can also be a bit of a grind.
• Exhibition Matches: Sometimes, you just want to jump into a quick match with your favorite team. This mode allows you to do just that. It's perfect for settling scores with friends or practicing your skills.

However, there are some notable omissions. For example, the Switch version lacks some of the advanced tactical options and training features found in other versions. The online experience can also be a bit lacking, with fewer players and occasional connection issues. Despite these drawbacks, there's still enough content to keep you busy, especially if you're primarily interested in offline play.

Performance: How Does it Run?

Performance is key, right? No one wants to play a sports game that's chugging along like a slideshow. Thankfully, PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch generally runs pretty well. The frame rate is usually stable at 30fps, which is acceptable for a sports game on the Switch. However, there can be occasional dips, especially during replays or in crowded areas of the field. These dips aren't game-breaking, but they can be noticeable.

The game also loads reasonably quickly, which is always a plus. You won't be spending ages staring at loading screens, which means you can get into the action faster. However, it's worth noting that the game can be a bit of a battery hog in handheld mode. If you're planning on playing for extended periods, you'll want to make sure you have a power bank handy.

Overall, the performance is solid, but it's not perfect. If you're particularly sensitive to frame rate drops, you might find the occasional dips to be annoying. But for most players, the performance should be more than adequate.

Online Experience: Playing with Others

The online experience in PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch is a bit of a mixed bag. On the one hand, it's great to be able to play against other players online, testing your skills against the world. However, the online community on the Switch is smaller compared to other platforms, which means it can sometimes be difficult to find matches.

When you do find a match, the connection quality can be inconsistent. Sometimes the game runs smoothly, but other times you might experience lag or disconnections. This can be frustrating, especially during crucial moments in a game. The online modes are also somewhat limited compared to other versions. You won't find as many tournaments or special events, which can make the online experience feel a bit stale after a while.

If you're primarily interested in playing online, you might be better off getting PES 2021 on a different platform. But if you're content with playing offline most of the time, the online experience on the Switch might be good enough for occasional matches.

Portability: The Switch Advantage

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: portability. This is where the Nintendo Switch really shines. Being able to play PES 2021 on the go is a huge advantage. Whether you're on a long commute, waiting for an appointment, or just chilling on the couch, you can always squeeze in a quick match. The Switch's portability makes it easy to fit gaming into your busy lifestyle.

The ability to switch between handheld and docked mode is also a major plus. You can play on the big screen when you're at home, and then switch to handheld mode when you're on the move. This versatility is one of the main reasons why the Switch is such a popular console.

If portability is a top priority for you, then PES 2021 on the Switch is definitely worth considering. The ability to play a full-fledged soccer game on the go is a compelling selling point.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

So, should you buy PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch? The answer, as always, is: it depends. If you're a hardcore PES fan who demands the best graphics and the most features, you might be disappointed. The Switch version requires some visual compromises and lacks some of the advanced options found in other versions.

However, if you value portability and are willing to accept some limitations, then PES 2021 on the Switch can be a fun and enjoyable experience. The gameplay is still solid, and the ability to play on the go is a major plus. Ultimately, it comes down to your priorities and what you're looking for in a soccer game. Just weigh the pros and cons and make the decision that's right for you.