Striker '96 Download (1996 Sports Game)

Pele, Franz Beckenbauer, and Maradona. The Final Jeopardy answer for the day. The question is, "Name three people considered to be the greatest soccer players in the world at the time they played." Soccer is the most popular team sport in the world, and its attraction continues to grow for the people in the United States. Striker 96, brought to us by Acclaim, attempts to capture the action and drama of both indoor and outdoor competition. The game succeeds admirably.

Striker 96 offers both low-resolution and a high-resolution graphics versions. Dynamic camera angles, gently falling snow, and realistic player motion all bring the game to life. Nice touches also include the effect of spin, wind, and the condition of the field on the ball as it moves. The indoor option is faster paced, but the color choice suggests that the players have decided to conduct their game on hardwood floors rather than Astroturf.

Nothing quite captures the soul of the game like its announcers. No matter what the sport, their comments and analysis bring out the human side of the game. The Scottish commentator in Striker 96 is a perfect example - his wit and enthusiasm are the best sound feature of this game (although they do get repetitive). The crowd chants and player sounds are functional but not spectacular.

Striker 96 offers two play modes - arcade and simulation. While the manual suggests the arcade mode for those new to the game, ignore this advice. Arcade mode is a frantic free-for-all that provides very little time to figure out things like "how to pass" or "who's got the ball?" Simulation mode offers a number of player actions, which can get confusing in the heat of competition. Simplifying the controls would make learning the game easier. Overall, playing in simulation mode does a more accurate job of portraying soccer as it's actually played.

With the exception of one recurring graphics glitch (a frozen screen while the game continues), Striker 96 is a great deal of fun. Strong graphics, solid sound, and good gameplay make this the best of the bunch for now. If you like soccer, pick it up!

1996's edition of the Striker football series from Rage Software.

Graphics combine a 3D pitch with 2D player sprites. The game includes multiple camera angles as well as different weather effects. You can modify any team's roster, select basic formations, time limits, difficulty, etc.

Select from 41 international teams and take part in either friendly games, league, or cup tournaments. Also included is a 6 on 6 indoor mode, and multiplayer support for up to 4 players using Gravis's GrIP system or through a network.

The game includes commentary by Scottish commentator Andy Gray.

How to run this game on modern Windows PC?

People who downloaded Striker '96 have also downloaded:
Striker '95, Striker (from Rage), Sensible World of Soccer 96/97, International Sensible Soccer, WRC 3: FIA World Rally Championship, Kick Off 2, TOCA Touring Car Championship, Winning Eleven: Pro Evolution Soccer 2007