‘eFootball 2022’ version 1.0 will be released next week, Konami admits it prioritized release date over quality

The highly anticipated patch for “eFootball 2022,” which would be the game’s version 1.0, is confirmed to go live next week. Konami has released the patch notes, along with another apology for the state of the game at launch.

Konami once again recognized its shortcomings with the launch of the free-to-play game last year. “We were too focused on getting the game out on time that we lost sight of the most important thing — quality,” the developer said in a blog post. “Naturally, we were met with critical reviews from rightfully disappointed fans.” Konami also tackled six main points of improvements that players can expect in “eFootball 2022” version 1.0, including defending controls, passing, shooting, dribbling, online connectivity, and new Game Plan features.

The developer said the defending mechanics is one of the main issues players have brought to their attention, especially with how difficult it could be to defend and get the ball back from an opponent. Konami said the update will introduce a new Shoulder Charge command that should allow players to proactively regain possession of the ball.

Konami said the ball pass speed will be increased after the update and that ball rebound will be used to help in acceleration. “eFootball 2022” version 1.0 will also introduce the new Stunning Pass command that will allow players to kick the ball with different trajectories. The developer is also adding shooting trajectories and improving the shooting speed. For dribbling, the patch is promised to deliver more accurate ball tracking to help players in dribbling.

Players have also complained about voided matches due to the game's online connection issues. Konami's response to this feedback is using a client-server system to be utilized starting in "eFootball 2022" version 1.0. The patch will also add several features for Game Plan, including Change Formation, Individual Instructions, Auto Settings, Sub-tactic, and Data management.

Konami is also renaming the Creative Team mode, where players can build their own football teams. It will be called Dream Team starting in "eFootball 2022" version 1.0, which will be released on Thursday, April 14. “The name was not the only thing that changed, as we decided to revamp a lot of our original ideas to ensure that you will be able to create your very own dream team,” Konami added.