Game Details
| Size | 366 MB |
| Region | USA |
| Genre | Sports |
| Format | 7z / ISO |
| Year | May 1998 |
| Console | PSX |
Adidas Power Soccer 98 (1998) was the third entry in Psygnosis’s soccer series, released just in time for the 1998 World Cup. While it competed directly with FIFA ’98 and International Superstar Soccer, it carved out a niche by focusing on “Power” moves and an arcade-style presentation that emphasized high-scoring matches.
Premise: Soccer with an Attitude
Unlike the more realistic simulations of the era, Adidas Power Soccer 98 was built for speed. It featured the “Adidas Power Kick”—a massive, physics-defying shot that could be unleashed to blast the ball past the keeper.
The Vibe: The game felt “cool” and modern for the late 90s. It featured a sleek UI, high-energy electronic music, and a heavy emphasis on the Adidas brand, including the latest boots and gear of the time. It offered both an “Arcade” mode for crazy fun and a “Sim” mode for a slightly more traditional experience.
Back Cover Description
“REAL SPEED. REAL POWER. REAL SOCCER.”
“Experience the intensity of the world’s greatest sport with the ultimate Adidas power trip! Adidas Power Soccer 98 brings you closer to the action with revamped 3D graphics and lightning-fast gameplay.
Master the devastating Predator Power Kick to strike from anywhere on the pitch. Choose from over 100 International and Club teams and lead them to glory in the World Cup or League modes. With motion-captured animations, professional commentary, and the most aggressive AI in the series, every match is a battle for total dominance.
Play like a pro. Win like a legend.“
Key Gameplay Features
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The Power Kick: By holding down the shoot button, your player charges up a shot that leaves a motion trail and is significantly harder for the keeper to save.
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1998 World Cup Focus: Features a deep tournament mode that mirrors the ’98 World Cup structure, allowing you to rewrite history with your favorite nation.
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Refined Graphics: Compared to the previous games in the series, ’98 featured much more detailed player models and “TV-style” camera angles that zoomed in during goals.
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Commentary: Features professional play-by-play that was more dynamic than earlier versions, reacting to fouls and spectacular saves.
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Sim vs. Arcade: A toggle that let you decide if you wanted realistic physics or the “over-the-top” power-shot gameplay.
Short Review: Fast and Flashy
The Good
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Pace: The game moves very quickly. Transitions from defense to attack are seamless, making for exciting, end-to-end matches.
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Accessibility: It is very easy to pick up and play. You don’t need to master complex button combinations to score spectacular goals.
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The Soundtrack: Psygnosis was known for great music, and the techno-heavy score in ’98 keeps the energy high.
The Bad
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AI Issues: The goalies can be somewhat inconsistent—occasionally saving impossible shots but then letting in simple rollers.
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Depth: While fun, it doesn’t have the same level of tactical depth or extensive licensing (player names, etc.) as the FIFA series.
Screenshots
