For FIFA fans looking for a change, or those undecided in the football games market, Konami has gone for a nutmeg, releasing a free version of PES 2016. Okay, it’s not the full game and at this stage it’s only meant for the PS3 and 4, but the entry level version will be available come 8 December 2015.

It sports an Exhibition Mode with the choice of seven teams, including Bayern Munich, Juventus, AS Roma, Brazil and France. There is also a full Training section and the myClub feature. This version will allow new users to access PES 2016’s online and offline play and unlimited access to the myClub mode wherein players use accrued in-game currency and micro-transactions to build a team.

Konami stated that the free-to-play edition will also be compatible with all future gameplay and content updates throughout the entire PES 2016 season, ensuring rosters are fresh and that PES 2016’s footballers are aligned to the form of their real-life counterparts.

There was also a tease from Konami concerning upcoming player announcements, with the developer mentioning historic footballers slated to make an appearance, although none were revealed.

When we reviewed the latest version back in September, we noted, “PES 2016 will only truly be enjoyed by gamers that aren't too concerned with licenses, but want a game that captures a football unlike any other.” Although not offering all that PES 2016 has to offer, the free version should none the less be a great addition to the December holidays.

Keep tuned to TechSmart for further updates.