FIFA Soccer 07 Review

Offensive maneuvering is as crafty as ever, allowing you to redirect the ball and thwart defenders across the pitch (that's what the rest of the world calls the soccer field) to get in close for a good shot at the goal. It's still pretty easy to rack up the foul cards for improperly timing the few defensive moves, though the referees are noticeably more lenient this year.

The DS's most unique feature, its touch screen, once again includes mini icons that can be tapped for immediate repositioning and the uber-helpful mini 2D radar that shows the placement of every player and the ball. Now you can also drag the stylus to add a bit of spin to penalty kicks or redirect a couple offensive players for an actual play.

The biggest disappointment, and the feature most DS-ownin' FIFA fans have been waiting for, is a lack of online support so you cannot compete online or update the already outdated roster. There is a multiplayer mode which allows up to four gamers - two per team - to play locally, though it requires multiple cards.

This is a very familiar game for those who already own FIFA 06 Soccer or 2006 FIFA World Cup for the DS and not enough of an evolution to warrant replacing either one. But for those who don't already have a DS FIFA game, FIFA 07 does provide short-term soccer satisfaction when away from a console and makes for a decent traveling companion - though not one you'd actually snog.