Pro Evolution Soccer 2017: Release Date, Top Player Ratings, Features and More

Fans of Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer series have been sampling the demo for the 2017 edition of the game lately, but it's not long until the real thing will be available to purchase.

The title has long been considered one of the most authentic virtual representations of the beautiful game, with Konami frequently doing tremendous work to capture the essence of football. This year looks set to be no different, with adjusted player ratings and a clutch of new features to enjoy.

Here's a look at what tweaks have been made in those specific categories and the key details ahead of the big release.

Release Date: September 13 (North America), September 15 (Europe and Japan)

Player Ratings

Although the complete ratings for the title have yet to be revealed, the game's official feed provided us with some details about the best operators.

Here is a look at the top goalkeepers on the game:

Details were also given on the world's best defenders:

The account also posted the highest-ranked midfield players in the game:

New Features

One of the most exciting features in this year's title is the official partnerships Konami has struck with juggernauts of the European game, the most notable of which is Barcelona.

Gamers can utilise players with remarkable likeness to the real Blaugrana stars and play at the Camp Nou, as Konami attained the license for it. Similar agreements have also been announced with Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.

Here's a look at the trailer produced to showcase Barcelona on the 2017 edition:

The game's official Twitter feed provided a glimpse of what gamers playing as BVB can expect when they purchase this title:

In terms of additions that will enhance gameplay, on its official website, Konami has detailed a host of tweaks that have been made to the product. They include Real Touch, Precise Pass, Goal Keeping, Total Team Control and Adaptive AI.

The former means there'll be a difference between the control of an average player should the ball be fired at him and that of Messi. Combined with Precise Pass, it's suggested the game will trigger "immense satisfaction when a killer pass is made."

Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Adaptive AI is an intriguing concept, with the console-controlled teams said to react to the manner in which you play the game. "Pass to a star player often?" Konami asks. "The opposition will double up on him and mark heavily."

According to Adam Bhatti, the global product and brand manager for Pro Evolution Soccer, there's more to come after the release date too:

When it comes to gameplay modes, the Master League, a staple of the PES series, will be back and more detailed than ever before, with refinements made to the way transfers are conducted, how players develop and the matchday engine.

There have also been some changes to the myClub mode, with scouts and agents playing a vital part in the recruitment process. Players are also privy to full tactical breakdowns of their upcoming opponents.