PS4, PS3 News: Konami to Launch Free-to-Play 'PES 2016' Version for Sony Consoles

On Friday, Japanese game publisher Konami announced that there will be a free-to-play version of the Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) 2016.

Gamespot said the free-to-play version of the game will launch this coming December 8 on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3. Unfortunately, Konami did not say anything about a free version of the game launching for the Xbox.

The company reportedly described the upcoming offering as "an entry-level version" of the game. The free version is expected to feature the Exhibition Mode of PES 2016, which will include the following teams: Bayern Munich, Juventus, AS Roma, Brazil, and France. Two other teams will be included, but have yet to be named.

Aside from the Exhibition Mode, the free game will also feature a Training Mode and mcClub support. It will also support both online and offline play.

In addition, TechTimes mentioned that gamers will be given the chance to recruit new members by using the points they earned in the matches they played or through MyClub Coins, which could be acquired through microtransactions.

Aside from this, Konami revealed that the free-to-play version of the PES 2016 will also come with all future gameplay and content updates zof the game.

Released last Sept. 15 for PS3, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One users, PES 2016 received great reviews from gamers.

Metacritic said upgraded moves in the game allow players to do sudden directional changes which could lead to opponents losing their balance.

"With Perfect Defence, players who time their tackles perfectly are able to powerfully shove their opponent out of the way and instantly secure the ball, allowing to create direct turnarounds and counter opportunities," said the report.

On the other hand, IGN gave the game a 9.5 rating. commenting that the game is 'outstandingly responsive and dynamic.' The hight rating was also given due to its ability to distinguish players and teams, wonderful physicality and improved front end.

The same report said that though the game's commentary is "uneven and repetitive," it can still be considered the best football game ever. It noted that PES 2016 make gamers feel thrilled, surprised and delighted while playing it.

Sadly, earlier reports indicate that this game will be the end of Konami's franchise. The Japanese game developer has reportedly been having a hard time after firing veteran developer Hideo Kojima, claims Tech News Today.

As a result, Konami reportedly already cancelled the development of "Silent Hill," disappointing most fans of the game.

Tech News Today also noted that due to certain issues facing the company, players are already wondering if Konami's upcoming releases can still meet their expectations.

However, the success of the PES 2016 could still turn things around for Konami.