PES 2021 On Nintendo Switch: Is It Worth It?

So, you're thinking about grabbing PES 2021 for your Nintendo Switch, huh? You're probably wondering if it's a worthwhile purchase, especially with all the buzz around the game on other platforms. Well, let's dive deep into the world of PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch and figure out if it's the right call for you. We'll be looking at everything from gameplay and graphics to game modes and overall performance. No stone will be left unturned, guys! We'll also compare it to other football games on the Switch and see how it stacks up. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear idea of whether or not PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch is a winning goal or a foul play.

Gameplay: On the Pitch Action

Let's get right into the heart of the matter: the gameplay. In PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch, the gameplay aims to deliver a realistic football experience. You'll find familiar controls and mechanics that long-time PES fans will appreciate. Passing, shooting, and player movements generally feel responsive, allowing for some strategic play. The AI aims to provide a decent challenge, and matches can build a genuine sense of competition, particularly when you crank up the difficulty. However, let's keep it real: the Switch version doesn't quite match the smoothness and fluidity you might find on more powerful consoles or PC. There can be noticeable frame rate drops, especially during more intense moments with many players on screen. This can sometimes affect your reaction time and overall control. But, if you can look past those limitations, there's still some fun to be had, especially when playing with friends in local multiplayer. The gameplay is still enjoyable and engaging, even if it's not the absolute best football experience you can have.

Moreover, the tactical depth in PES 2021 on the Switch is pretty commendable. You can tweak your team's formation, adjust player positions, and set up specific game plans to counter your opponent's strategies. This adds a layer of strategy that makes each match feel unique. Setting up a perfect counter-attack or executing a well-timed through ball feels incredibly satisfying. However, it's worth noting that the Switch's controls can sometimes feel a little cramped, especially when you're trying to pull off complex maneuvers. The smaller Joy-Cons can make it challenging to perform quick, precise actions, and you might find yourself fumbling with the buttons at first. Despite these challenges, the core gameplay of PES 2021 on the Switch is solid, providing a decent football experience that can be rewarding if you're willing to adjust to its quirks.

Graphics: A Visual Rundown

Now, let's talk about the visuals. PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch looks… well, it looks like a Nintendo Switch game. Don't expect the stunning, high-definition graphics you see on other platforms. The player models are less detailed, the stadiums lack some of the finer details, and the overall presentation is noticeably scaled back. But, considering the Switch's hardware limitations, it's not a complete disaster. The game is still visually appealing, and the player likenesses are generally recognizable. The colors are vibrant, and the animations are decent enough to convey the action on the pitch. However, there's no getting around the fact that the graphics are a compromise. If you're used to playing football games on a powerful PC or console, you might find the Switch version a bit jarring at first. Jagged edges, blurry textures, and a lower resolution are all part of the package. But, if you can adjust your expectations and focus on the gameplay, the graphics become less of an issue.

Another thing to consider is the performance. While the game generally runs smoothly, there can be occasional frame rate drops, especially during replays or when there's a lot of action happening on the screen. This can be a bit distracting, but it's usually not game-breaking. The Switch is a portable console, so you're sacrificing some graphical fidelity for the sake of portability. Ultimately, the graphics in PES 2021 on the Switch are acceptable but not outstanding. They get the job done, but they're not going to blow you away. If you're a graphics snob, you might want to temper your expectations. But, if you prioritize gameplay over visuals, you can still enjoy the game despite its graphical limitations. Remember, it's all about the beautiful game, even if it's not the most beautiful-looking game.

Game Modes: What's on Offer?

In terms of game modes, PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch offers a decent variety to keep you engaged. You'll find the classic modes like Master League, where you can take control of a team and guide them to glory, managing transfers, training, and tactics along the way. There's also Become a Legend, where you create your own player and try to become a football superstar. For quick matches, you can jump into Exhibition mode and play against the AI or a friend. The inclusion of local multiplayer is a big plus, allowing you to have some fun matches with your buddies on the same console. This is where the Switch version truly shines, as it's perfect for those spontaneous gaming sessions. However, it's worth noting that the Switch version lacks some of the online features found in other versions of the game. There's no MyClub mode, which is a popular online mode where you build your dream team by collecting players and competing against others. This might be a deal-breaker for some players who enjoy online competition. Despite this omission, the game modes available still offer plenty of content to keep you entertained for hours. Whether you're into managing a team, creating a player, or just playing quick matches, there's something for everyone.

Furthermore, the Master League mode is surprisingly deep, allowing you to delve into the intricacies of team management. You can negotiate contracts, scout for new players, and develop youth talent to create a dynasty. The transfer market can be quite dynamic, with players' values fluctuating based on their performance and demand. Become a Legend mode is also engaging, allowing you to experience the highs and lows of a professional football career. You'll need to train hard, perform well in matches, and make the right decisions to reach your full potential. The sense of progression is rewarding, and it's satisfying to see your player grow from an unknown prospect to a world-class superstar. While the lack of MyClub is disappointing, the other game modes provide a solid single-player experience. If you're primarily a solo player, you'll likely find plenty to keep you busy. But, if you're looking for a robust online experience, you might want to consider other versions of the game.

Performance: How Does it Run?

Let's address the elephant in the room: performance. PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch, while playable, isn't exactly a performance powerhouse. The game generally runs at a stable frame rate, but you'll notice dips, especially during intense moments with many players on the screen. These frame rate drops can be distracting and can affect your reaction time, making it harder to execute precise movements. The loading times can also be a bit lengthy, particularly when starting a new match or navigating through menus. This can disrupt the flow of the game and make it feel less responsive. However, it's important to remember that the Switch is a portable console with limited processing power. The developers have done their best to optimize the game for the platform, but there are inevitable compromises. If you're used to playing games on a powerful PC or console, you'll definitely notice the difference. But, if you're willing to accept these limitations, the game is still playable and enjoyable.

Moreover, the performance can vary depending on whether you're playing in docked or handheld mode. In docked mode, the Switch has access to more processing power, which can result in slightly better performance. However, the difference is usually not significant. In handheld mode, the game might experience more frequent frame rate drops and longer loading times. This is because the Switch's battery life is prioritized in handheld mode, which can limit the amount of power available to the game. Despite these performance issues, PES 2021 on the Switch is still a decent option for those who want to play a football game on the go. The portability of the Switch allows you to play anywhere, anytime, which is a major advantage. If you're willing to sacrifice some performance for the sake of portability, the Switch version might be right for you. But, if you prioritize performance above all else, you might want to consider other platforms.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Buying?

So, the big question: is PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch worth buying? The answer, as always, is it depends. If you're a hardcore PES fan who wants to play the game on the go, and you're willing to accept some graphical and performance compromises, then it might be worth it. The gameplay is still solid, the game modes are decent, and the local multiplayer is a blast. However, if you're a graphics snob or you prioritize online play, you might be disappointed. The graphics are noticeably scaled back compared to other platforms, and the lack of MyClub is a significant omission. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities and your expectations. If you go in knowing what to expect, you can still have a good time with PES 2021 on the Switch. Just don't expect it to be the definitive PES experience. It's a portable version of a great game, with all the limitations that come with it.

In conclusion, PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch is a mixed bag. It offers a decent football experience on the go, but it comes with some compromises. The gameplay is solid, but the graphics are scaled back, and the performance can be inconsistent. The game modes are decent, but the lack of MyClub is disappointing. If you're a casual player who wants to play a football game on the Switch, it might be worth considering. But, if you're a hardcore PES fan who wants the best possible experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if the pros outweigh the cons. Just remember to temper your expectations and focus on the fun of the beautiful game.