Pro Evolution Soccer 3 also continues the huge success of its predecessors, with last year's Pro Evolution Soccer 2 now bypassing the 1.5 million units mark aided by its re-release as part of Sony's Platinum budget range last month, while the assorted versions of the series have amassed sales of over 12 million units since its inception in 1996.

The new game marks a huge advance for the Pro Evolution series. Every aspect of Pro Evolution Soccer 3 has been reworked, with an all-new graphics engine offering an amazing level of detail that extends to players both recognisable by their faces and the way they run and strike the ball. Similarly, the game benefits from a radically enhanced control system with 80% of the game's moves new to Pro Evolution Soccer 3, and giving players total control of the on-screen stars – with the timing and movement of every trick, flick and pass totally governed by the player; while the player AI ensures that off the ball movement is equally realistic.

The launch of Pro Evolution Soccer 3 has also been bolstered with the use of Pierluigi Collina – arguably the most recognised official in the modern game – on its packaging. Collina, who oversaw the 2002 World Cup Final, has been chosen as he is the most respected figure within the game; something which perfectly mirrors Pro Evolution Soccer 3's reputation as the leader in its field.

Pro Evolution Soccer 3 will be released for PlayStation 2 on October 17th, price TBC. A PC version will also be released in November 2003.

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