Konami has finally announced a precise release date for the company's upcoming soccer game Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 which will be released on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on Sept. 21, with editions for Wii, 3DS, PlayStation 2 and PlayStation portable devices arriving at a later date. The news was first reported by game site the Videogamer.
This means that PES 2013 will release a whole week before its main rival EA Sports' FIFA 13, which releases on Sept. 28. This gives the game a chance to capture an audience that can't wait to play virtual soccer. The game features soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo on the cover and his popularity could help attract new buyers to the series for Konami.
According to the develop, "over 150 European teams will be featured in the upcoming release of PES 2013, in addition to all the clubs of the Spanish Liga BBVA, the Italian top division and top class clubs such as Manchester United, Bayern Munich and FC Porto. Furthermore, since last year's game, not only will the "Copa Santander Libertadores" be present, but also 20 Brazilian clubs have been added. They are coming with updated kits and some of the Brazilian stadiums too."
The Latin American edition of the game will feature commentary from Mexican commentators Christian Martinoli and Luis Garcia, as well as the legendary Silvio Luis and Mauro Beting.
PES 2013 is expected to feature several improvements over last year's edition including ProActive AI, Player ID and a new FullControl system. The new system features reworked passing and shooting, a new balance between offensive and defensive actions and a better blocking system for defensive situations, according to the developers.
You can read our impression of the game's second demo here.