ISS Pro Evolution is regarded as a landmark title in soccer for various reasons, primarily because of its innovative gameplay mechanics and the launch of new modes that established a benchmark for subsequent soccer video games.

Key Features and Innovations

• Master League Mode: One of the most significant additions in ISS Pro Evolution was the Master League mode. This mode allowed players to manage a team of fictional players and earn points through gameplay to buy new players, providing a strategic layer that was both engaging and addictive. It was a precursor to the career modes seen in modern sports games.

• Realistic Gameplay: The game was praised for its realistic approach to soccer, focusing on build-up play, intelligent off-the-ball movement, and strategic depth. This was a departure from the more arcade-like experiences offered by other soccer games at the time, such as FIFA, and it laid the groundwork for the realistic soccer simulations that followed.

• Improved Controls and Mechanics: ISS Pro Evolution introduced refined controls and mechanics, such as the shot feint mechanic, which added depth to the gameplay. These innovations allowed for more nuanced player interactions and strategies, enhancing the overall realism of the game.

• Club Teams and Licensing: Although the game did not have official licenses for teams and players, it was one of the first in the series to include club teams, which could be played in the Master League. This inclusion broadened the appeal of the game by allowing players to engage with club-level soccer, albeit with fictional names.

• Critical Acclaim: The game received widespread acclaim for its gameplay and innovation, with many reviewers considering it the best football game of its time. It was praised for its balance in multiplayer matches and the absence of easy scoring “sweet spots,” which required players to work strategically for goals.

Overall, ISS Pro Evolution’s combination of realistic gameplay, strategic depth, and innovative features like the Master League made it a defining title in the evolution of soccer video games, influencing the development of future soccer simulations.