___________________________ \______ \______ \____ \ | ___/| _/ | \ | | | | \ | \ |____| |____|_ /______ / \/ \/ ______________ _________ .____ ____ ______________._________________ \_ _____/ \ / /___ \ | | | | \__ ___/ \_____ \ \ | __)_ \ Y / | \| | | | / | | | |/ | \ | \ | \ \ / | \ |___| | / | | | | | \ | \ /_______ / \___/\_______ /_______ \______/ |____| |___|_______ /_|__ / \/ \/ \/ \/ \/ ________________ _________ _________ ___________________ _______ / _____/_____ \ \_ ___ \\_ ___ \\_ _____/_____ \ | ______| \_____ \ / | \/ \ \// \ \/ | __)_| _/ |______ \ / \ | \ \___\ \___ | \ | \ ______) | /_______ /_______ /\______ /\______ /_______ /____|_ / |_______/ \/ \/ \/ \/ \/ \/ ___ ___ / \-------------------------------------------------------/ \ | | C O M P L E T E G U I D E | | \___/-------------------------------------------------------\___/ |BY Gam3rGurl AKA Cheat_Angel| \_________05/01/06_________/ ---------- CONTENTS ---------- 1} Legal Mumbo Jumbo 2} The Basics 3} Passing 4} Defending 5} Dribling 6} Crossing 7} Shooting 8} Corners 9} Throw Ins 10} Free Kicks 11} Super Cancel 12} General Tips 13} Strategy And Formations 14} The Master League 15} Training Growth Players ------------------- Legal Mumbo Jumbo: ------------------- This FAQ is copyright � 2005 Gama. This walkthrough may not be reproduced under any circumstances except for personal and was written solely to be hosted at www.gamefaqs.com and www.supercheats.com. Any other site can also use this guide as long as they inform me about my guide being used at [email protected], If not Use of this guide on any other web site or as a part of any public display is strictly prohibited, and a violation of copyright. -------------- 2. The Basics -------------- All the moves that i will be referring to in this walkthroughwill use the default buttons settings. If you are going to be strange and mix up the buttons, then good luck to you, but this is what i use and it's tried and tested formula. WITH BALL ------------------- (x)............................Short Pass (SQ)............................Shoot (O)............................Long Pass (TRI).............................Through Ball [R1]............................Dash/Sprint [R2]............................Fast Dribble [L1]............................Change Player [L2]............................Change Strategy (R3)............................Manual Pass WITHOUT BALL ------------------------- (X).............................Standing Tackle (SQ).............................Call Extra Defender (O).............................Sliding Tackle (TRI)..............................Call Goalkeeper Out [R1]............................Dash/Sprint [L1]............................Change Player [L2]............................Change Strategy PLAYER CONTROL: D-PAD OR ANALOGUE? ------------------- You Can control the player with either the left analogue stick or the D-pad. of course, it's totally up to you which you use and which you feel more comfortable with, but seabass {The producer and the "father" of PES} recons that the players response with the D-pad is ever so slightly quicker and more accurate. So there you go. ADVANCE CONTROL SETTING ---------------- To be a bit diffrent and potentially intimidate any apponent with your knowledge of PES's subtleties, you can try tinkering with four options below the main control in the button configuration menu. Long Pass Mode --------------- TYPE 1 Automatically crosses the ball from the flanks when your player is level with the opponent's penalty area or near the touchline in the attacking thrid. Long passes are AIassisted to be more acurate. TYPE 2 Just like type 1, but you get no assistance with the long passes. Type 3 You get assistance with long passes, but the automatic crossing only happens when the player is level with the penalty area. TYPE 4 You have to hit [L1]+(O) to cross, but you get assisted with long passes. TYPE 5 No assistance with long passes. Must be hit [L1]+(O) to cross. Which you choose is totally up to you. Obviously, if you pick type 5 it will give you complete control of what you can do with the ball, but as the best footballing decision when you're in line with the penalty area is to cross it, having to press [L1] may over-complicate things. For those who like to keep possession by switching flanks with a crossfield ball, type 3 maybe a good choice as you get assistance with long balls into the box whenever you're close to the penalty area. Advance players may consider type 4, as it allows as it allows them to hit long balls rather then standard crosses into the box with (O) and the D-pad. They're much harder to judge, but anythink that brings variety to your playing styles is worth considering. Chip Shot ---------- TYPE 1 [L1]+(O) TYPE 2 Press shoot repeatedly. Keep it with type 1, as smashing the shoot button constantly isn't particularly precise or elegant. Manual Short Pass ------------------ As the right analogue stck is normally reserved for dribbling tricks, to play a manual pass you have to point in the direction you want to make the pass, then press (R3) {clicking in the right analogue stick} to generate the power. You can alter this so manual passes just require a flick of the right analogue stick, but this means all the dribbling tricks usually availble on the right analogue stick require the (R3) button to be clicked in. In conclusion, unless you're something of a manual pass expert, i recommend leaving this bit well alone, as it's tricky to time the dribbling moves as it is, without having to worry about clicking in the (R3) button as well. Left Analogue Stick -------------------- You can switch manual long passes to the left analogue stick so you don't have to use the [L1] button. This is a pretty useful if you want to mess around with the manual long passes, but only if you don't use the lft analogue stick to control player movement. ------------ 3. Passing ------------ The foundation of all football, if you can't move the ball about the pitch safely then you're not going to win many football matches, so it's obviously a skill that needs to be perfected before any others. Here are the diffrent types of pass you can make. All these passes are executed with the D-pad to control the direction of the pass. (X)............................Short Pass A low-powered grounded pass that will go to the nearest teammate in the chosen direction. (O)............................Long Pass A lofted pass the weight of which is judge with the use of an on-screen power bar. (TRI)............................Through Ball A ground pass that's played into space for team mates to run on to. Extremely useful for opening up defences, but tricky to use successfully. [L1]+(TRI)............................Lofted Through Ball Just like the through ball, a pass played into space, but through air. Even trickier to use successfully than the normal through ball. [L1]+(X) Then (X)............................One-Two Pass {Or (TRI) or (O) depending on the type of return pass that you want to make} This is a pattern of play between two players. The player in possession plays a pass to a teammate and then immediately makes a run forward to receive a return pass. It's a great way to unlock a defence or generate space and movement. Often it's worth holding onto the ball before the releasing the return pass to allow the runner to get into a more advanced position and a better scoring chance. [L1]+(O)............................Long Pass A lofted pass that is automatically aimed to the furthest teammate up the pitch. Direction+(R3)............................Manual Pass This is an extremely hard technique to master. The default setting requires you to point the right analogue stick in the direction you want to send the ball, then click in the stick {the (R3) button} to generate the power. It gives you complete control of the direction and speed of your pass, but this of course means there's far more room for error. [L1]+Direction on the right analogue stick+(R3)............................Lofted manual pass Just like the manual pass, but holding down the shoulder button sends the pass through the air. KEEPING POSSESSION ------------------- Keeping possession of the ball in football is absolutely vital as, to put it simply {and a bit patronisingly}, you can't score without the ball, and neither can your opponents. However for PES 5, keeping possession has never been so important because: 1. It's harder to create chances, so you'll need to probe away at defence to find on opening. 2. It's much harder to win the ball back as the referees are so fussy. Keeping the ball requires a good degree of patience and good technique, but most of all intelligence - so don't start having a go ay your tiny AI men for losing the ball if it's really you who has made a poor decision. Here are some tips and techniques to think about. DON'T EXPECT TOO MUCH OF YOUR PLAYERS --------------------- Not every player in the game is as gifted as Wayne Rooney. Consequently, don't expect them to spin on the ball or more play amazing first-time passes if their stats aren't up to it. If you've got players that need time to control the ball and set themselves before making a pass, give them time to do so. THINK LIKE A FOOTBALLER ------------------------ Football isn't all about going forward all the time - the ball can be passed back, it's not a sign of weakness. If you've run out of options down one flank, then play it back to the defenders {Who usually have space to spare} and try another idea. Also don't always expect your players to be able to turn with the ball. Play the way each player is facing and you'll find you'll keep possession much more often. Let The Ball Pass ------------------ Instead of trapping the ball when receiving a pass, you can let the ball come across your player and allow it to continue rolling. What this enables you to do is use the speed of the ball to move into the surrounding space. Simply press [R1] and the direction in which the ball is running. Lay Off The [R1] Button ------------------------ Many PES gamers continually give up possession because they've always got their fingers on the [R1] dash, which means the players don't trap the ball - instead they knock it out of their feet so they can sprint. Every player can pass more accurately and trap the ball better when they're moving slower. The "LONGER" Short Pass ------------------------ By holding down (X) when passing you'll hit the ball to the furthest player in the chosen direction. By doing this you can move the ball quicker to players in space instead of messing around with fiddly short passes in a congested midfield. Be careful when playing this ball across your penalty area, as it can be intercepted. This 'long' pass can also be done with (TRI) through balls. Use The Width Of The Pitch With Long Passes ----------------------- Long balls hit to your forwards look desperate - long balls hit across the pitch are classy. One way to give you more time on the ball is to get one full-back pass to another. Point directly opposite using the D-pad {U+(O), D+(O)} and use about two thirds of the long pass power bar to make it across the pitch. Make sure that you check the radar first, though. Use The New Keeper Throw Out ----------------------------- Rather than hoofing the ball up the pitch from the keeper's hands, use the (X) button to get the keeper to bowl the ball out. It's a good way to maintain possesion and could possibly launch a counter attack. MEGA IMPORTANT TECHNIQUE Use the [R2] Trap ------------------------- It's vital that you start to use [R2] to control the ball. Hold it when the ball is approaching the player and it will come under complete control. When passing to players with low Technique, it helps them deal with awkward balls, but is good to use with skilful players too, as if you combine the [R2] button with the D-pad, you can get players to control the ball and turn in the chosen direction all in one movement - great for turning into space, away fom any defenders or preparing for a pass. If you just tap the [R2] button though, the player will turn to face the goal they're attacking. ------------- 4. Defending ------------- As i've mentioned before, winning the ball back from the opposition can be incredibly frustrating, as the refrees seem to call a foul for the most innocuous challenges. So here is my guide to keeping your players out of the referee's book. Stand Up Tackle............................(X) This the most effective way to dispossess an opponent. A simple tap of the (X) will cause your defender to attempt to kick the ball - in order for this to be a clean tackle, you must make sure that there's no part of the player in possession 's body between your defender's foot and the ball. Pressure............................Hold (X) This magically draws your player towards the ball. Combine the move with [R1] and your player will sprint to the ball. Sliding Tackle............................(O) The defender will dramatically launch themselves along the floor in order to win the ball. Clear The Ball............................(SQ) To get rid of the ball from the danger area as quickly as possible, hit (SQ) and the defender/goalkeeper will 'put their boot through it'. Defender Assist............................Hold (SQ) When tracking an attacker or jockeying him, holding down (SQ) will draw the nearest AI teammate to the ball to come and assist the closing down - bassically double teaming the player on the ball. Player Change............................[L1] By hitting [L1] you'll change the player you take control of. This is vital when defending, as you can switch to the players that are in better possitions dealwith the threat rather than just controlling the player nearest the ball.You can adjust the amount of assistance or manual control you want with the player swapping in the player select menu. Jockey Opponent............................[R2] Use this with the D-pad to slowly back off from the player in possession, tracking their movement while facing them. The idea is not to be drawn into a challenge with the dribbling player as he can skip past, and therefore always keep defending player goal side of the ball. DEFFENDING EFFECTIELY ---------------------- If you've played alot of PES before, you'll be very aware of the defending with the [R1] + (X). This magically drew your defenders towards the ball, allowed the players to jostle the man in possession and more often than not come away with the ball. If you do this is in PES 5, it will usually result in a free kick because: 1. Holding down the (X) button leads your player directly to the ball via the shortest route, so that means throught the back, legs and ankles of the opposition. 2. By holding down [R1], you're sprinting, which means it gives your player much less chance of accurately nicking the ball off an opponent's foot. There's also another drawback to using [R1] + (X) all the time, as it constantly drains your player's stamina. That said, the [R1] + (X) combo still has a place in PES 5, as it's an easy way to chase players back as long as you remember to ease off when you near an opposition player. It's also an effective way to pick up loose balls quickly. Overall though, if you're an [R1] + (X) whore, it's time to change your defending habits. Time Your Tackles ------------------ Obvious really, but once you're tracking a player you need to press (X) just at the right moment to make a clean challenge, as holding (X) or tapping it will probably result in a foul. Trial and error is the best way to learn, but you want to track the player then wait until the dribbling player pushes the ball out of their feet to run. Once there are no bits of player between your player and the ball, tap the (X) button. Use Deffender Assist Sensibly ------------------------------ Continually holding (SQ) to press the play has certain drawbacks, as it pulls defenders out of position. And as the onrushing defender is AI controlled, he can eaisly give a free kick away, so choose your moments wisely. Use Defender Assist To Leave You To Cover ---------------------- Rather than just using the defender assist to 'double team' the player in possesion, you can use the extra defender to press the player in possession, while the player you're in control of can cover the surrounding space in order to tidy up any dribbling attempts or to intercept passes. Think Before You Slide ----------------------- The sliding tackle happends to be a very misunderstood move. Some see it as thuggish and desperate, but it really can bring a useful extra dimension to your game. The reason why many people refrain from using it is because if, timed incorrectly, it can result in a card - red or yellow, especially if it's from behind. A sliding tackle commits your player completely. If the ball isn't won, the player will be left out of the game, quit literally sitting on his arse. Also a sliding tackle can be easily avoided if the player is full controlof the ball. So here are some things that you really need to think about: * Never slide tackle from behind unless you want to deliberately foul. * When sliding from the side, only do it when the ball is some distance from the oposition player - probably when they're sprinting. * Sliding from the front can be very useful, especially on players sprinting towards you, as it closes the space between them extremely quickly. The sliding tackle is a very effective way to intercept passes. Use it when the ball is just passing out of your reach or try sliding to attack the space around the player in possession to prevent a pass, shot or cross. Crowd Out The Opposition ------------------------- This is effective when playing agaist human opponents that like to dribble, as it denies the opponents space to move into. All that is requires is liberal use of the [L1] player change button, combined with holding (X). It draws in several players towards the ball, closing down on the space to force the attacker back, and all without having to make a challenge. Jockey ------- 'Jockeying' is a term used when a defender goal side of an opponent tracks his movement without making a challenge. So don't start jumping on everyone's back. The advantage of this is that it holds up play, allowing the defence to regroup and get back and get back in numbers. This can be achieved using the [R2] button, but there's very little point. Instead, just track the player using the D-pad, using the [R1] to keep up with any change of pace. Clear Intelligently -------------------- Hitting (SQ) will get the ball way quickly, but it can often result in you conceding a corner, throw-in or possession. If you've got time, use the [L1] + (O), as it gives your two strikers something to fight for and potentially creates a chance. Shape Up --------- Always be aware of your team's defensive shape. Ideally you want two lines of four (one of defenders, one of midfielders) protecting the goal, but even when your defence is stretched, try to keep your central defenders in the centre. Don't start chasing wingers down the flanks with your CBs, or have full-backs being dragged out of position closing down CMFs. Use the [L1] button to switch between players to make sure no one is drawn too far out of position. ------------- 5. Dribbling ------------- The ablility to beat an opposing player with the skill will enable you to break down even the most stubborn of defences. Also it looks ace and will make your heart sing. Bassically, what you're attempting to do is draw defenders into making a challenge and then taking the ball away from them. Or fooling them into thinking one thing and then doing another, or simply beating them with fleet of foot. Bassic Dribbling............................D-pad Simply hold down the D-pad in the direction you want to go and the player will go there. Change direction to avoid any incoming tackles and hey, you're dribbling! Medium Pace Dribbling............................[R2] + D-pad Holding [R2} increases the speed of your player but not into a full sprint - more of an energetic canter. This enables them to keep the ball close to their feet at all times, enabling quick changes of direction. Fast Dribble Or Sprint............................[R1] + D-pad Here your player will knock the ball a few yards ahead and then sprint after it. It's the fastest they can move while in control of the ball, but as the ball is often a distance ahead of them, it makes them easy to dispossess. Knocking The Ball Ahead ------------------------------------- There are two methods to this, and both require you to be sprinting with the [R1] button. Remain holding [R1] while performing these moves: Knocking The Ball Ahead(1)............................Double tap D-pad in the direction you're travelling This kicks the ball even further ahead of the player sprinting, giving more strides per touch and enabling them to move faster. Only use when you're certain there's plenty of space to run into. Perfect when you've beaten a full-back high up the pitch and you want to speed to the by-line. Knocking The Ball Ahead (2)............................[R2] + 45 degree change of direction on the D-pad This is a potentially devastating move, especially on the counter attack. What it does is push the ball a long way in front of your player, but on a slightly diffrent direction to the initial run. It's brilliant when controlling fast players like Hennry as they approach the last defender. Rather than running straight on into the tackle, they will knock the ball at a slight angle past the defender and then breeze past. It's best used when there's plenty of space behind the defensive line and there isn't anyone fast enough to cover. The Quick Stop............................Release the D-pad + [R1] / [R2] This move brings your player to a complete stop. Hitting [R1] will stop your player dead in his tracks in the direction he was running. Hitting [R2] will turn your player to face the goal. The Slide Shuffle............................D-pad 90 degrees to the player's direction Those who've played a lot of PES 4 will remember this move, as it's use requires the [R2] and the 90 degree change of direction, now it just needs the change of direction on the D-pad. What the player in possession will do is shift the ball to the side and then immediately push forward. So, in one movement you can move the ball away from where the defender thought it was and sprint pass. Best timed just as the opposition comes into tackle. Hurdling A Tackle............................[R2] This is a context sensitive move that requires some timing. Basically it makes your player jump over a slide tackle, esecially useful if the ball is ahead of your player and the defender is coming in to break a leg. THE STEP OVER -------------- There are two types of steps over to play around with. Neither are particularly effective on their own, but when followed up with a change of direction or pace, can leave a defender helpless. Single Step Over............................Double tap [R2] Just the one lollipop and that's it. Triple Step Over............................Double tap [L1] Three Ronaldo/Peter Beagrie/Mark Walter speacials. The Shot Feint............................(SQ) + (X) A gorgeous move, as your player will shape to shoot but insteed will shift the ball to the side and speed past, while the defender/goalkeeper is flinching like a baby. This can also be performed with (O) + (X). Note that both buttons don't have to be pressed simultaneously, the (X) can just be press after. The Quick Back-Heel Turn............................[R1] + 180-degree change of direction Just turning 180-degrees in a direction will make your player roll the ball backward and then spin to collect it. The problem with this turn is that it's predictable and easily tackled. Add the [R1] though, and the player will roll the ball slightly further away and so prevent the marking defender from stabbing a toe in. The Flip Flap............................Triple tap [R2] or triple tap [L1] An amazing move that's brand new to PES. The dribbling player shifts the ball to the side with the outside of his stronger foot, but then flicks the ball the opposite way with the toe of the same foot. If timed correctly, it'll wrong the defender and make you look like a god. It can be used on it's own but can also be linked to a normal step over - double tap [L1] again for flip flap. As it's such a special move, only a few players can pull it off. Here are the players i managed it with: Luque Takahara Ronaldinho Ronaldo Adriano C Ronaldo Ibrahimovic Cisse The Nutmeg............................Hold [R1] + [R2] then triple tap [L1] This doesn't guarantee a nutmeg, but is an interesting trick to attempt. What it does is knock the ball ahead of the dribbling player, who then swerves his run to avoid the defender/goalkeeper immediately in front of him. Very hard to pull off, so make sure you save the replay if you do it. DRIBBLING MOVES FROM A STATIONARY POSITION ----------------------- It's often that you'll be stationary in PES, but it's actually a very strong position to dribble from, as your player will have no momentum to counter attack and so can movesharply away from onrushing defenders. Here are some moves to try out when you've used the [R1] or [R2] stop. The Feint............................Double tap D-pad 90 degrees to the direction your player is facing Looks great, but not that useful. The player in possession will shift their weight in the direction double tapped, as if he's about to push one way but doesn't. Make sure those taps are lightening quick. The Drag Back............................[R2] + D-pad 180-degrees to the direction faced Here the player slides back a yard, rolling the ball back with him using the sole of his foot. Best used on defenders coming in for the ball at a fastish pace. Getting The Ball Out Of Feet............................[R1] + [L1] Not really a dribbling move, all this does is knock the ball a few feet from the player to enable them to hit a pass, shot or long ball. It's still useful to know though, as it's great for lining up a powerful shot. Shield The Ball............................Release the D-pad when the player is between the ball and the defender. Again this won't beat a player, but it will prevent them from getting the ball with his back back to the goal and the defender, just come off the D-pad and the player will automatically shield the ball from the defender. From here he can lay off a pass or attempt a quick turn. Looks cool and just like real football as well. THE RIGHT ANALOGUE STICK --------------- If you keep the default manual pass setting, the right analogue stick holds the keys to numerous wonders. Three tricks are already available using the face and shoulder buttons, but there are two that can only be accessed with the stick. EXISTING MOVES --------------- The Shot Feint............................Double tap 90 degrees in the direction you want to faint to So when playing from left to right, double tap up or down. The Single Step Over. Double Tap Back The Triple Step Over............................Double tap forward STICK ONLY MOVES ----------------- The Flick/Chip............................Tap Down then Up This makes the player scoop the ball up and forward. There's no defined purpose for this move, but it can be used to chip on rushing keepers, or to knock it over a defender's tackle. It's also a novel way of setting up your own volley. The Marseille Roulette............................Spin the right analogue stick 360-degrees This is a move made famous by Zidane. It involves your player spinning 360-degrees and taking the ball with him by rolling his feet over the ball. It works as the player hardly loses contact with the ball and the spin partially shields the ball as he passes the defender. The spin can be performed in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. OTHER TRICKS AND FLICKS ------------- The Dummy............................Hold [R1] This is possible just before a player receives the ball. Come of the D-pad and hold [R1] to make your player allow the ball to pass through his legs. The idea is to draw the defence into thinking you're about to control it, but letting it pass and then allowing the player behind more space. It's extremely Difficult to pull off succssfully, as it requires just the right amount of timing, angle of the pass and a player making the correct run behind. Try it when an attacker makes a run to a near-post cross, as he can then leave it for attackers moving in on the far post. The Flip Over The Head............................D-pad 180-degrees in the opposite direction just as you control a bouncing ball This move 'sort of just happends'. What happends is a player receives a ball about waist height but instead of bringing it down, flips it over his head and spins to retrieve it. Can look incredibly flash, but more than often it just gives it to the defender standing two yards behind you. How To Dribble Effectively ---------------------------- Here are some thoughts to help you become an effective ball hogger. Practice --------- If you want to be a great dribbler, practice, practice, practice. Start by learning the moves in the Free Training mode, and then when you're comfortable with the patterns, take it into a real match. I can tell you the button in a guide, but getting a feel for the timing for each movement only really comes with practice. Use Skillful Players --------------------- Obviously really, but you'll be amazed how many people attempt to weave through a defence with Djimi Traore. Look at your player's stats and if they've got high dribble speed and accuracy, then let them get on with the clever stuff. Try To Isolate Defenders ------------------------- Once defenders are lacking cover and there's space behind them, they're ripe for a skinning. Save your best moves for a point when you can reap maximum benefit and have the space to pull the move off. Dribble In The Attacking Third ---------------- Doing the odd side-shuffle in defence is sometimes necessary, but keep tricky movements to a place where losing the ball won't leave your goal under threat. Keep Your Moves Varied ----------------------- Many PES 4 players became very predictable to play agaist, as they became over reliant on the side shuffle, often made in the same direction. Try to truly master two or three tricks to keep the defending side guessing all the time. Use The Defender's Momentum ---------------------------- A change of speed can often be a lot more useful than any flip flap move. By varying your speed you can draw defenders in then burst past, with their momentum making it hard for them to change direction and chase after you. Try coming off the D-pad and tempting defenders in and you'll be susprised by how effective it can be. ------------- 6. Crossing ------------- Always an effective way of scoring, crossing sends ball into the box from the wings, allowing your strikers to attack the ball to try and force it into the net. These are bassic crossing moves that can be executed when the long pass option is set to Type 1 and the player in possession is level with the opposition's penalty area. The Far Post Cross............................(O) A lofted cross that's aimed for the back sticks. This is the best used for tall target man or striker with good amount of heading ability. Near Post Cross............................Double tap (O) This a slightly lower cross aimed for the near post, and is great when attemting to put a lofted ball into the six-yard area. Both of the above crosses can be altered slightly by holding down the [R2] button. This make the trajectory of the ball much higher - floated even. Use this when you're got an obvious height advantage in the centre. This is a ball that's delivered along the floor at some pace. it's best used on counter attacks when there's space in the penalty area to be attacked. Try not to perform this too close to the by-line, as the lack of height on the ball will make it very easy for the keeper to intercept. Hit it when you're about level with the penalty spot for for maximum effect. The Early Cross............................[L1] + (O) You don't have to wait till you're level with the penalty to swing a ball into the box the box. From anywhere in the attacking half of the field you can use [L1]+(O) to launch one into the box. While often it's just a high ball for the keeper to collect, it can be a great way to catch your opponent off guard. It's defently something you should experiment with if your team has a Beckham-type player on the flanks. The Through-Ball Cross............................(TRI) Should only be attempted when the player in possession is attacking the near post. A cheeky use of the through ball can send an inviting ball into space across the box for a striker to rush in to finish. Unfortunately, this isn't an exact science, so it can often just trickle out of play. Crossing Effectively --------------------- The double (O) used to be deadly in PES 4, but in PES 5 it's far less effective. Now to score from a cross you have to think smart: Be Aware Of Player's Momentum ------------------ In PES 5, players have far more weight about them. They are 'heavier' to control, so can't stop and start moving in an instant. With this in mind, strikers will be able to win the ball far more often when they first attack the box - as in when they make their initial run - so this is the perfect time to cross. If you fanny about on the wings for too long, the momentum will be lost and and you'll be left with a load of stationary attackers to aim at - so make sure that you cross early! Be Aware Of Your Winger's Favoured Foot ----------------------- If you have a habbit of continually cutting back on the full-back then crossing with your winger's less favoured foot, you're cutting down the chances of sending in a successful ball. If it's a habbit you can't get out of, try putting your Joaquins or Robbens on the oposite flank, so they can aleast put in a desent ball from their strong side. ------------- 7. Shooting ------------- Kevin Keegen said: "You don't win the lottery if you don't buy a ticket" and he wasn't wrong. Also, you'll never score if u don't have a shot. So here's my guide of how to go for glory/have a crack/let one go: Shoot............................(SQ) + D-pad This isn't just a quick tap - more of a squeeze - as an onscreen power bar will appear. Then release square when the power bar has reached the required amount. Just what that 'required amount' is depends on the shooting situation. The Controled Shot............................(SQ) + [R2] When the power bar is on screen This is a tricky skill to master, and you have to be very quick with the [R2] button to ensure it's pressed the ball leaves the player's foot. What it does is make the player strike the ball with his instep rather then the laces, and therefore have more control over over the direction of the shot. THE CHIP SHOT -------------- There are to diffrent types of chip shot that can be executed: The High Chip Shot............................[L1] + (SQ) Great for embarrassing oncoming keepers. It takes a delicate touch on the power bar so you don't blast the ball over, and must be executed early enough to allow the ball to get over the keeper and then down into the net. Often best hitat a slight angle onto the corners of the net, as it gives the ball more space to come down. The Low Chip Shot............................(SQ) then [R2] when the power bar is onscreen Just like the controlled shot, you have to be very quick with the shoulder button. This is a chip with a much lower trajectory, best used on keepers that have already gone to ground. The Curler............................(SQ) + [R1] when the player is running parallel to the goal Just like the Flip-Flap, this is a skill that only few players can do - i know of Rooney and henry, but let me know if you find any more. It involes players cutting in from the flank onto their stronger foot and running across the pitch. So for Henry, he would have startedon the left flank, then cut in and will be running along the edge of the penalty area. Then hit (SQ) + [L1] and he will attempt a lofted curling shot into the far corner. This is defently one to experiment with in training. Effective Shooting ------------------- Shooting, and shooting from a distance in particular, seems to be far easier in PES 5 than it was in 4, but there's still a major skill involed in knowing how much power to put into each shot. So here are some things to think about: Practice --------- Obvious really, but just like dribbling, you need to get the feel for shooting so hitting the ball just right becomes instint. Several things effect how much power you need to put on the ball, such as speed of the player, speed of the ball, whether it's a first time shot, angle of the chance, distance, etc, that only experiencing it first hand will help. Don't Hesitate --------------- If you get a sight of goal - SHOOT! Unlike in PES 4, you don't have to wait for the opportunity to score perfect goals. So don't be shy to let fly. See, that even rhymes. :P Exploit The Middle Shooting Star ------------------- New to PES is the special skill star for middle shooting. This has been introduced to exploit the talents of such players as Scholes, Lampard, Gerrard and Nedved who can rattle them in from distance. Find out who these players are in your team and let them shoot a lot. Position them where they can get time and space around the penalty area or are able to run onto loose balls in the final third - anything central, CMF, AMF or SS will do. Get The Body Shape Right ------------------------- Every player will have a much better chance of scoring a goal if they have the space to get themselves set. If they're under pressure from a defender, off balance or striking a ball with their weeker foot, the shot is more likely to trouble the corner flag than the goal. So if you've got the space, don't snatch at chances, get your player in the right position - on their strong foot, with the ball out of their stride (Use [R1] + [L1] if necessary) - then smack it. ------------ 8. Corners ------------ Your basic lofted corner is taken using the circle button, with the D-pad controlling the initial aim and the power bar controlling the distance it will go, but there's several ways you can modify this: Curling............................Press L or R on the D-pad when the power bar is on screen This allows you to swerve the ball through the air, making it trickier for defenders to judge the fight. The Floated Centre............................(O) + [R2] This sends the ball in with a high trajectory. Useful if you've got an obvious height advantage over the defending team. The Whipped In Centre............................(O) + U This is a cross with a low trajectory and therefore comes into the box at greater speed. The advantage with this is that even the smaller attackers can attack these, but it also means they could be knocked away by the defending team at the near post. The Grounded Corner............................(O) + D Usually executed with alot of power, this is a ball that's fired along the ground into the near post for an attacker to thump in. Best used as a susprise agaist human opponents expecting something a little more conventional from you. Short Corner............................(X) This just passes the ball to the nearest teammate and it's best done quickly before the defence can close the player down. Beware that even the short passes have power bars now though, so make sure the pass is firm enough to reach the target. GET THE BEST OUT OF CORNERS ---------------- Thanks to the cheep trick of bringing out the keeper, corners in PES 4 were almost useless. Now keepers aren't the all-powerful ball-snatching gods they were, so corners are now once again a good way to create chances. Choose The Right Kicker ------------------------ The best corner takers in the game will have high free kick abillity, curling. long pass speed and accuracy stats. Which Side For Which Foot? --------------------------- Do you want an inswinging corner (a ball then moves on towards the keeper) or an outswinging one (a ball theat moves away from the keeper)? Deside, then make surethe player taking the corner with his strong foot is taking it from the correct side Basically, for outswinging corners have right-footed players take the corners from the right flank and left footers from the left. It's all pretty simple when you think about it logically. For inswinging corners, right-footed players should take from the left side and left footers from the right. You can curl the ball either way, but this way will make the most of the kicker's natural curl. Oh, and take into account the curl when initlally aiming. Don't Always Shoot ------------------- Don't start hammering on the shoot buttons when sending on a cross. Wait to see what sort of situation has been created. Often it's worth making a headed pass with (X) to knock the ball down for another attacker to shoot. Move Off The Ball ------------------ Useing the [R2] button when the ball is in the air, you can move the player about to receive the ball. This can be used in several different ways, such as putting a marker off balance or making space for a volley. It's probably best used for high-floated crosses which gives you time to manoeuvre. You can use this technique when defending crosses as well. -------------- 9. Throw Ins -------------- A dull but necessary technique, but there's more than one.... Short Throw............................(X) Your basic throw which goes to the nearest teammate in the direction pointed. Remember to aim carefully. The Long Throw............................(O) Goes further than a short throw. No, really. Can be an effective attacking tool when used by a player with a long throw star. The Throw Into Space............................(TRI) Throws the ball into an area rather then at an individual, allowing the teammate to run onto the ball. --------------- 10. Free Kicks --------------- There's a wonderful dark art to PES free kicks, with seemingly endless ways to modify your shotsand a million and one experts out there, each with their own foolproof strategy. Well here's what i know. All the basic wats of kicking the footbal in PES will be an option at a dead ball situation, so you can shoot, short pass, long pass and play a through ball. When a free kick is in your half or in the middle thrid of the pitch, there's not much exciting you can do - basically hit it short to keep possession or long to start a direct attack. It's when you get a free kick in the attacking third that things become a little bit more exciting. SHOOTING DIRECTLY FROM A FREE KICK ------------------- You can attempt a direct shot on goal from any central area in the opposition's half, but you're more likelyto test the keeper from 35 yards and closer. Before striking the ball, you must first choose the direction using the D-pad, then judge the power of the shot and then add curl by pressing left or right on the D-pad when the power bar is on screen. The most conventional way to take a free kick is to aim for the space behind the defensive wall - the side the keeper isn't covering. The idea is to get it up and over the wall before the keeper can get across, while adding a bit of curl to keep it away from the keeper's reach as is hopefully enters the net. Usually the right amount of power for kicks from around the 25-metre mark is halfway up the power bar and many goals can be scored by keeping it this simple. But here are some ways to modify your shot. The Soft/Dipping Shot............................(SQ) The ball will float over the wall and then start to dip. Very useful for trying to find the net from free kicks just outside the area. The Free Hard Kick............................(TRI) While the power bar is on Screen It won't dip or curl that much, so make sure you aim for the corners. Use for long shots and when using players who haven't the subtler free kick skills, such as Riise and Carlos. The 'Dinked' Free Kick............................(SQ) + D This is an extremely weak shot for free kicks very close to the goal, that allows you to put plenty of curl onto it for devastating effect. The Blasted Free Kick............................(SQ) + U A full-blooded attack on the ball which is often best aimed to the side of the wall, towards the space the keeper is covering. It should test his refelxes at the very least. Late Change Of Direction............................[R1] or [L1] The direction of free kicks can be changed right at the last second by holding down [L1] or [R1] when the power bar is on screen. When shooting you can aim wide, but still put the resulting shot on target. it's a bit of an odd one, but may catch out some humman opponents - especially if they fiddle about with the position of their keeper. The Chipped attempt............................(O) Rather then trying to blast the ball in, some PES players have realised that a quick dab on the (O) button can be just as just as effective. Aim just over the wall at the side the keeper isn't covering and don't put any curl on. Often using players with poor long pass stats actually helps pull off this move. The Two-Player Free Kicks -------------------------- To add another player to the setup hold down [L1], which will now give you a variety of options: The Lay Off And Hit............................[L1] + (X) This makes the player standing over the ball lay it off just to the side to allow the other player to run up and shoot. The idea is to change the angle of the kick to take the defensive wall out of the equation. Great when using players with the middle shooting star. Trick Long Pass............................[L1] + (O) Here the player standing over the ball plays a long pass. So just as your opponent readies themselves for a lay off and shot, a quick cross is sent in towards the goal instead. Trick Shot............................[L1] + (SQ) Here it's the player standing over the ball that takes the direct shot on the goal. As the player is standing right by the ball, he won't be able to generate a lot of power, so save this move for free kicks around the box. Cross Into Box............................(O) Just like a corner, the trajectory of these can be altered using the D-pad and the [R2] button, but these have never been a great way of creating chances, as it's very hard to judge them accurately. Not much power is needed if you want to put the ball in the box, but another technique is to use the two-player free kicks by holding down [L2], then nudge the ball into open play using [L1] + (X) and then cross the ball conventionally. Free Kicks Hint And Tips ------------------------- Free kicks around the penalty area are a great way to score in PES 5. In fact they could be a bit too easy to score, but that's even more reason for you to take advantage. Practice --------- Again, you have to get the feel for free kicks and you also have to find out which type of free kick suits you and which situation. To help you work out what's the best wat to approach free kicks, go into the training mode and switch the camera angle to vertical medium. This should give the perfect angle to see just how your free kicks are behaving. Use The Two-Player Free Kicks ------------------------------ You don't have to shoot when using the two-player free kicks and it can be used anywhere on the pitch. It's a great way to just nugde the ball to another player who then has ten yards of space to shoot, pass or cross. Defending Free Kicks --------------------- It's not a huge help, but you can decide what your wall does when facing free kicks: Player Remaining Still............................(X) Player Rush And Jump............................(O) Player Jump............................(SQ) Player Rush Forward............................(O)+(X) The two rushing options are great for closing down the two-player free kicks. ----------------- 11. Super Cancel ----------------- There's one move that's hard to fit into one defensive or attacking category, as it hasn't got any set, specific function, yet it's a hugely powerful skill once mastered - and that's the Super Cancel. To perform Super Cancel, all you have to press is [R1]+[R2] when you're not in possession of the ball. Now you will be in complete manual control of the player - by that i mean free of invisible control PES sometimes has over your player's movement - like when chasing a loose ball or moving for a through ball. If that doesn't sound too clear, hopefully some examples of its use will help: Giving Up Lost Causes ---------------------- You might notice that your player will chase any loose ball, even ones that are running harmlessly out of play for your throw/corner/ goalkick. Often they'll catch up with the ball only to knock it out of play, which returns the ball to the opposition and is extremely frustrating - putting it mildly. Instead of screaming "LEAVE IT!!", pressing Super Cancel will give you full control of your player to stop the chase. Coming Towards A Through Ball --------------- You'll find that when you play a through ball, the player receiving the pass will go on a predetermind run that occasionally totally ignores the fact the ball is a yard behind him or that there's a defender just about to intercept. Super Cancel will shake him out of the stupor, enabling you to change direction and pick up the ball. Controling Long Balls ---------------------- If a ball is played over a defender's head they will allways automatically turn and chase it, but occasionally let the ball bounce and seem hesitant to bring it under control. This is particularly dangerous with attackers on their heels, so use Super Cancel to get the defender into the path of the ball earlier and bring it under control. Dummies -------- The computer will often have your player fixed to one spot when receiving a pass, so use the Super Cancel move to come towards the ball - but then it's completely up to you if you want to trap it or not. Another option would be to 'dummy' the ball, hoping the ball passes the closing defender, while you spin round and attempt to collect it. Cancel Shots And Passes ------------------------ Wonder why it's called Super Cancel? Well it refers to the fact that once you've pressed [R1]+[R2], all shots, passes, crosses and through balls you've changed up are cancelled. You have to be quick to do this before the ball leaves the player's foot, but it's useful to know it's there in times of emergency. ----------------- 12. General Tips ----------------- Now i've explained what all the moves are, i'll now try to explain how to bring them all together to put the ball in the back of the net. How To Generate Movement in Your Team ----------------------- In order to create chances you need plenty of movement off the ball, as then there are plenty of passing options for the player in possession. On the whole, but occasionally it's necessary to inject some extra movement. Here are a couple of techniques: The Burst Forward ------------------ Hit [R2] immediately after playing a short pass and the player who's just played the pass should make a burst forward looking for a return ball. Use The One-Two ---------------- The One-Two doesn't have to be used just when trying to unlock defences, it can be used anywhere on the pitch - but whether you complete the move is totaly up to you. You can start the One-Two {with [L1]+(X)} but then retain the ball. What will usually happen is the player making the run will pull away from a marker, leaving useful space that can now be exploited by the player in possession. Invite Players Forward ----------------------- What you're doing here is trying to prompt the AI players into moving into space. The best example of doing this is getting your SMFs to cut inside and therefore leaving space for the full-backs to run into. Use The Onscreen Radar ----------------------- While i advise you to use the Wide camera setting so you can see as much of the game as posible, get used to glancing down at the radar to see which players are in space. You'll find that human opponents - when defending - will hardly look at the radar, as their eyes will be glued to the ball, so if your wingers is standing in 20 yards of space, you'll be the only one person to notice it. Use Diagonal Through Balls --------------------------- Back in the old days of PES, when it use to be called ISS, you could hit a through ball from almost anywhere in the attacking third and it would create a chance. Now through balls are very tricky to use successfully, mainly as defenders are so good at cutting them out - especially straight ones. So always try to add an angle to the pass, to target players either side of you, rather then just straight ahead. The Through Ball Isn't Always The Killler Ball ------------------------ Don't think the pass to unlock the defence always has to be the one that's played into space. If you spot a stricker in space, getting it to their feet as soon as posible is the best idea, especially if you can combine it with a clever [R2] first touch and move the ball into the threatening area. --------------------------------- 13. Team Strategy And Formations --------------------------------- If you thought learning about the basic moves was a bit technical, then you're in for a shock with this bit. You know that big menu screen where you can make substitutions and fiddle with the information? Well, in there lies a myraid of secrets and PES magic that can turn even the most average player into a world champion. Squad Information ------------------ Pressing [L1] and [L2] will flick through the information on your squad's players. First off it will display what position they play, but also it shows how many yellow cards a player is on {only useful in tournament or league modes} and who takes which set pieces - this can be altered in the Kicker/Captain option. The most important display though, is player status, which has three parts to it: The Stamina Bar ---------------- This is the green bit. At the start of every season, or in any Exhibition match, this will be completely full, but will gradually go down during a match - the amount depends on their stamima stat and how much running around they do in a match, In the league or tournament mode, this bar might be reduced if the player has played several draining matches. Fatigue Meter -------------- This grey bar is only visible in tornament and league options and indicates how tired the player is from playing in consecutive matches. If the grey bar is almost full, it means the player is very tired, his stamina will go down far quicker in matches and he is more susceptible to injury. Rest is the only cure for this. Condition Arrows ----------------- Aha! One of the great mysteries of PES is just what all those coloured arrows mean. I know red means good and blue is bad, but why? And what's the grey one about? * GREEN ARROW This means your player is fine. He will perform on the pitch exactly to his displayed rating. * YELLOW ARROW This means your player is on form, Every one of his stats will be increased from 4-6%. * RED ARROW This means your player is bouncing off the wall to play. He's so up for it, each stat will improve from 9-12%. * GREY ARROW POINTING DIAGONALLY UP This one is a mixed blessing, as it's used to indicate a player coming back to fitness from injury, which is of course is a good thing. Unfortunately he won't be match sharp, which means his stats will decrease from 5-6%. * BLUE ARROW Here your player is feeling a bit glum, perhaps a bit sorry for himself, so his stats will decrease by anything from 9-18%. * GREY ARROW Looks a bit like a tombstone, which is apt, as your player's stats will decrease by 9-18%. * YELLOW CROSS This means your player is slightly injured. They can play, but will be way below their best, as their stats will decrease by 18-30%. * RED CROSS If you see this, your player is properly crooked and won't be getting anywhere near the pitch. * A SMALL GLOBE This means your player has been called away on international duty and isn't available for selection. The stats that are most effected by the condition arrows are the major ones such as Attack, Defence, Jump and Mentality, so it's often far better to play average players who's on a red star then playing a good one that is on blue - unless they are truely exceptional. Never play a playeron downward grey or yellow injury, as it's just not worth it. Look what happened to Ronaldo in the 1998 World Cup Final. The Effect Of Stamina Loss --------------------------- As players become tired during a match, the stamina bar will reduce. When it gets below about half the bar, it will start to effect their performance. Substitute out any player who is suffering, even if it means replacing them with a player with lesser ability. Preventing Loss Of Stamina --------------------------- Using the [R1] + (X) to rush around and constantly pressing the play will seriously sap your player's stamina. This probably won't have much of an effect in one-off match, but play consecutive games in the tournament and league modes and it will have a dertrimental effect on your Fatigue bar. Try to avoid using the [R1] + (X) move too much and instead defend using positioning and reading of the play. Formation Choice -----------------