eFootball 2022

eFootball 2022 is the latest version of the legendary Pro Evolution Soccer video game franchise, which has recently gone through the process of dramatic transformation, becoming a fully-fledged free-to-play title available for all PC users without the need to purchase it.



Built from the ground up to provide a realistic football experience to millions of fans from all around the world, eFootball 2022 for PC represents one of the most important titles in the decade-long history of Japanese video game publishing giant Konami.

eFootball 2022 introduces players to brand-new systems that fuel the on-field action and behind-the-camera team management.

This includes a new animation platform for recreating famous soccer players, a new dynamic system for one-on-one duels, in-depth team controls, and an extensive multiplayer mode that even supports cross-platform play.

One of the greatest changes was a technical one – the introduction of a brand-new rendering engine.

• Soccer Evolved
• A New Engine for a New Era
• eSports Without Borders
• Free to Play and Future Updates

What’s New

• Expanded Special Player List: Over 150 players featured, including Epic, Highlight, and additional active players
• Epic Players Series: New themed drops highlighting standout seasons (National Midfielders, Attackers, League-based selections)
• Highlight Players Upgrade: Enhanced stats compared to standard versions with further development potential
• Show Time Players: Special high-performance cards with boosted stats and unique skills based on current season impact
• New Themed Releases: Regular additions such as English League, Italian League, J.LEAGUE, and National squads
• Unique Card Designs: Distinct visuals inspired by real-life moments and seasons
• Team Building Boost: More high-tier player options to strengthen squad composition

After years of running on the highly capable Fox Engine, developers from Konami moved to the popular Unreal Engine, which is a move that allows them to build a stable tech platform that could evolve regularly over the next few years.

The first iteration of the game inside Unreal Engine is ambitious, but it is mostly focused on providing a stable experience that mostly promotes new animation and player control systems.

The launch version of eFootball 2022 represents just a foundation that will receive aggressive updates during the following months and years.

For example, the first version of the game featured local matches with only 9 preselected teams and challenge events against AI and online opponents, but many more teams, stadiums, game modes, and tournaments are planned to be added.



While the game is right now slim with in-game content and features some questionable visual rendering features, developers have promised an aggressive update cycle and quick fixing of all found issues.

How to Play

• Download & Install – Get eFootball 2022 from Steam or the official website and install it on your PC.
• Launch the Game – Open eFootball 2022 and log in to your account.
• Select Game Mode – Choose from offline, online, exhibition, or other available modes.
• Customize Controls – Adjust keyboard or gamepad settings in the options menu.
• Pick a Team – Select your favorite team or build your own squad in Dream Team mode.
• Learn the Basics – Practice dribbling, passing, and shooting in training mode.
• Play Matches – Compete against AI or real players in different tournaments and online matches.
• Tactics & Formations – Set your strategy, player positions, and playstyle before a match.
• Earn Rewards – Complete challenges and win matches to earn in-game currency and upgrades.
• Improve Skills – Keep playing, master controls, and adapt strategies to become a better player.

FAQs

What is eFootball 2022, and how is it different from PES?
eFootball 2022 is the rebranded evolution of the PES series by Konami. It shifted to a free-to-play model with ongoing updates instead of annual releases, focusing on live service content.

Why did eFootball 2022 receive negative reviews at launch?
At release, the game was criticized for poor graphics, bugs, lack of content, and unfinished features. Many players felt it was not ready compared to previous PES titles.

Has eFootball improved since its launch?
Yes. Over time, Konami released multiple updates that improved gameplay, visuals, and added more modes and content, making it a more complete experience than at launch.

Is eFootball still worth playing in 2026?
Yes, but with expectations. In 2026, it’s a decent free-to-play football game with regular updates, though opinions still vary depending on whether players prefer simulation depth or a more casual experience.



Pricing

eFootball is available on Steam as a free-to-play game.

In-game currency packs are available for purchase:

• 12000 Coins – €99.99
• 5800 Coins – €49.99
• 3300 Coins – €29.99
• 2150 Coins – €19.99
• 1050 Coins – €9.99

Prices may vary depending on your region and local currency.

System Requirements

Minimum:

• OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-2300 or AMD FX-4350
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 Ti or AMD Radeon HD 7790
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 50 GB available space

Recommended:

• OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 (6 GB) or AMD Radeon RX 590
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 50 GB available space

PROS

• Realistic Gameplay: Konami has historically focused on providing a more realistic and simulation-based gameplay experience compared to its competitor, the FIFA series. This realism can be appealing to fans seeking authenticity.
• Master League: The Master League mode, where players can manage their own team, has been a staple of the series and is often praised for its depth and immersive experience.
• Fluid Mechanics: The game engine has been lauded for its fluid player animations and ball physics, contributing to a more lifelike experience on the virtual pitch.
• License Acquisitions: While not always on par with FIFA in terms of licensing, Konami has secured partnerships with some top clubs and leagues, which can enhance the authenticity of the game for fans of those teams.
• Modding Community: Historically, the PES series has had a strong modding community, allowing players to enhance the game experience with additional content such as updated kits, stadiums, and more.

CONS

• Licensing Limitations: Despite efforts, Konami has often lagged behind EA Sports' FIFA in terms of licensing, meaning some teams, leagues, and players may not be fully represented or may be represented under fictional names.
• Online Modes: While improving, the online modes of PES have sometimes faced criticism for issues such as lag, matchmaking problems, or a lack of depth compared to offline modes.
• Presentation: The overall presentation, including menus, commentary, and pre-match build-up, has sometimes been seen as lacking polish compared to FIFA, which sets a high standard in this regard.
• Player Base: While PES has a dedicated fan base, it generally trails behind FIFA in terms of sales and online player numbers, which can affect the matchmaking experience and longevity of online modes.