Konami unveils Pro Evo Soccer deals
2009 edition to feature Champions League mode, plus Man Utd and Liverpool licenses
Konami has released details of agreements that it has signed with UEFA, as well as Manchester United and Liverpool football clubs, for the inclusion of official competitions and teams in this year's edition of Pro Evolution Soccer.
The title, due on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC on October 17 and on the Wii next year, will feature a Champions League mode featuring official assets and formats, while the full kits and player likenesses from Manchester United and Liverpool will also be included in the game.
"The Pro Evolution Soccer series is synonymous with football being played at the highest level, which makes it perfect for hosting the best club football competition in the world", commented UEFA. "We are delighted that PES 2009 will feature the UEFA Champions League and look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with Konami."
The Konami title's main rival, EA's FIFA series, has traditionally trumped Pro Evolution Soccer on the license stakes, and while Konami has previously dealt with FIFPro for licensing, this is the first time the title will include agreements with UEFA.
"Konami is continually striving to add key licences to the PES series, and the capture of the English game's most successful club is another major step forward," said Jon Murphy, PES team leader of the Manchester United deal.
And he added on the agreement with Liverpool: "We are very pleased to become the 'Official Football Video Game' of such a respected and successful team as Liverpool FC,"
Meanwhile Ian Ayre, commercial director of Liverpool FC commented: "PES has long been the game of choice for a large number of the Liverpool squad, so I am delighted that Konami is to be an Official Partner of LFC.
"Our agreement allows for a far-reaching series of partnership initiatives that cover all aspects of the club’s media outlets, cross-promotional elements both online and in print and, of course, the closest possible representation of our talented squad in a video game. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with Konami and helping the PES series continue its international growth."