EFootball PES 2021: Nintendo Switch Review & Guide

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 51 views

eFootball PES 2021 on Nintendo Switch: A Deep Dive

Hey everyone! Let's dive deep into eFootball PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch. For those of you who love gaming on the go, this is a title that might have caught your eye. But how does it stack up against its console and PC counterparts? Is it a worthy addition to your Switch library? That's what we're here to explore. We'll be covering everything from gameplay mechanics and graphics to game modes and overall performance, so you can make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned PES veteran or new to the series, this guide will provide you with all the essential details you need. So, grab your Switch, settle in, and let’s get started!

Gameplay and Mechanics

When it comes to gameplay on the Nintendo Switch, eFootball PES 2021 aims to deliver a similar experience to its high-definition counterparts, but with some necessary adjustments. The core mechanics of passing, shooting, and player movement remain intact, offering that familiar PES feel. The game emphasizes strategic play, requiring you to build up attacks, control the midfield, and defend effectively. The responsiveness of the controls is crucial, and for the most part, PES 2021 on the Switch handles well, allowing for precise movements and quick reactions. However, there are noticeable differences compared to the PlayStation or Xbox versions. The AI isn't quite as sophisticated, and you might find the opposing teams making some questionable decisions. Also, the overall pace of the game feels slightly slower, which could be a result of the Switch's hardware limitations. Despite these differences, the fundamental gameplay loop remains engaging. Successfully executing a well-timed through ball, scoring a screamer from outside the box, or pulling off a crucial last-ditch tackle still provides a satisfying experience. The Master League mode, a fan favorite, is also present, allowing you to manage your team, scout for new players, and guide them to glory. This adds a layer of depth that keeps you invested beyond the on-field action. Overall, while it may not be a perfect replication of the console versions, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch offers a compelling and enjoyable football experience.

Graphics and Performance

Alright, let's talk about graphics and performance. It's no secret that the Nintendo Switch has limitations compared to more powerful consoles like the PlayStation and Xbox. As a result, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch has undergone some visual downgrades to ensure it runs smoothly. The character models are less detailed, and the textures aren't as sharp. The stadiums also lack some of the visual flair found in other versions. However, the developers have done a decent job of optimizing the game for the Switch's hardware. The frame rate is generally stable, although it can dip during more intense moments, especially in handheld mode. This can occasionally affect the responsiveness of the controls, but it's usually not a major issue. One of the biggest compromises is the resolution. The game runs at a lower resolution than its counterparts, which can make the visuals appear blurry, particularly on a large TV screen. However, when playing in handheld mode, the lower resolution is less noticeable due to the smaller screen size. Despite these graphical limitations, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch is still a decent-looking game. The player animations are fluid, and the overall presentation is faithful to the series. The game also includes dynamic weather effects, which add to the immersion. While it may not be a visual showcase, the game is still perfectly playable and enjoyable. Just don't expect it to compete with the graphical fidelity of other platforms.

Game Modes and Features

When it comes to game modes and features, eFootball PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch offers a comprehensive package that should keep fans entertained for hours. The game includes all the classic modes that you'd expect from a PES title, such as Master League, Become a Legend, and MyClub. Master League allows you to take control of a team and guide them to glory, managing everything from transfers and tactics to youth development. Become a Legend puts you in the shoes of a single player, allowing you to develop your skills and career. MyClub is the online mode where you can build your dream team by collecting players and competing against others. In addition to these main modes, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch also includes exhibition matches, training modes, and various leagues and cups. The game also features local multiplayer, allowing you to play against your friends on the same console. One of the notable features of eFootball PES 2021 is the inclusion of licensed teams and leagues. While it doesn't have all the official licenses, it does feature many of the top clubs and leagues from around the world. The game also includes updated player rosters and kits, ensuring that the game is up-to-date with the latest footballing trends. Overall, the game modes and features in eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch are comprehensive and offer a lot of variety. Whether you prefer single-player or multiplayer, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Online Experience

Let's discuss the online experience on eFootball PES 2021 for the Nintendo Switch. The online modes, particularly MyClub, are a big draw for many players. MyClub allows you to create your own dream team by acquiring players through various means, such as scouting and the transfer market. You then take your team online to compete against other players from around the world. The online matchmaking system is generally reliable, but finding matches can sometimes take a while, especially during off-peak hours. Once you're in a match, the connection quality is usually decent, but lag can be an issue from time to time. This can affect the responsiveness of the controls and make it difficult to execute precise passes and shots. However, the game does offer options to filter matches based on connection quality, which can help to minimize lag. The online community is also relatively active, with plenty of players to compete against. There are also regular online events and tournaments, which offer rewards for participating. However, it's worth noting that the online experience on the Switch isn't as polished as it is on other platforms. The graphics are less detailed, and the overall presentation is simpler. But if you're willing to overlook these limitations, the online modes can provide a fun and engaging experience. Just be prepared for the occasional lag and longer matchmaking times.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of eFootball PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch to give you a clear overview:

Pros:

Portable Gameplay: The biggest advantage is the ability to play PES 2021 on the go. The Switch's portability makes it perfect for gaming on your commute, during breaks, or anywhere else you have some free time.
Familiar Gameplay: The core gameplay mechanics remain faithful to the series, offering that classic PES experience. Passing, shooting, and player movement feel intuitive and responsive.
Comprehensive Game Modes: The game includes all the main modes from the console versions, such as Master League, Become a Legend, and MyClub.
Local Multiplayer: You can play against your friends locally, which is always a fun option.

Cons:

Graphical Downgrades: The visuals have been significantly downgraded compared to other platforms. Character models are less detailed, and the textures are less sharp.
Performance Issues: The frame rate can dip during intense moments, and the game occasionally suffers from lag, especially in handheld mode.
Simplified AI: The AI isn't as sophisticated as it is in other versions, which can make the game feel less challenging.
Online Limitations: The online experience isn't as polished as it is on other platforms, with longer matchmaking times and occasional lag.

Is it Worth Buying?

So, is eFootball PES 2021 on the Nintendo Switch worth buying? The answer depends on your priorities. If you value portability above all else and are willing to accept some graphical and performance compromises, then it's definitely worth considering. The game offers a solid football experience with all the main modes from the console versions. The ability to play PES on the go is a major selling point, and it can be a great way to kill time while traveling or waiting. However, if you're a stickler for graphics and performance, you might be disappointed. The game has undergone significant visual downgrades, and the frame rate can dip during intense moments. The online experience is also less polished than it is on other platforms. Overall, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch is a decent game, but it's not the definitive version of PES. It's best suited for those who prioritize portability and are willing to overlook some of its limitations. If you're a hardcore PES fan who wants the best possible experience, you're better off sticking to the PlayStation, Xbox, or PC versions. But if you're looking for a fun and engaging football game that you can play on the go, eFootball PES 2021 on the Switch is worth checking out.