Mastering Pro Evolution Soccer 2017: Top Strategies and Gameplay Tips You Need

When I first picked up Pro Evolution Soccer 2017, I'll admit I struggled to find my rhythm. The game felt different from its predecessors, demanding a more thoughtful approach to both offense and defense. But after spending over 200 hours mastering its mechanics and studying professional players' techniques, I've discovered what truly separates competent players from exceptional ones. The journey reminded me of that powerful quote from Choco Mucho's captain about gradual improvement: "As coach said earlier, he's thankful because he's seeing so many improvements somehow and personally, I'm happy because we're gradually returning." That philosophy perfectly captures the PES 2017 experience - it's about recognizing small victories while working toward larger goals.

Building from that mindset, let's talk about offensive strategies that actually work. Many players make the mistake of constantly pressing the sprint button, but PES 2017 rewards patience and build-up play more than any previous installment. Through my experimentation, I found that maintaining approximately 65% possession typically leads to better scoring opportunities. The advanced through ball (R1 + triangle) has become my secret weapon, especially when combined with one-two passes (L1 + X). I've developed a particular preference for teams with strong midfield presence like Barcelona and Bayern Munich because their players excel at quick passing sequences. What many don't realize is that body positioning before receiving passes dramatically affects first-touch quality - something the game models remarkably well. When approaching the final third, I've scored 42% of my goals using low driven shots (quickly tapping shoot twice) across the keeper, a technique that's consistently effective inside the penalty area.

Defensively, the game requires a completely different mentality compared to earlier versions. I learned the hard way that constantly controlling defenders and rushing out of position creates massive gaps that skilled opponents will exploit. Instead, I primarily control my midfielders to cut passing lanes while letting the AI handle initial defending. The pressure button (X on PlayStation, A on Xbox) should be used sparingly - I typically use it only when my opponent is facing their own goal or in corner situations. Team pressing (double-tap and hold pressure button) has saved me countless times when needing to regain possession quickly, though it drains player stamina approximately 30% faster. My personal defensive strategy involves forcing opponents toward the sidelines where they have fewer options, then using the stand tackle (circle on PlayStation, B on Xbox) precisely when they attempt to cut inside. This approach has reduced the number of goals I concede from open play by nearly half compared to my initial matches.

Set pieces represent another area where slight adjustments yield significant improvements. For direct free kicks within 25 yards, I've scored with surprising consistency using a three-step approach: aim just outside the post, apply approximately 70% power, and add slight curl away from the keeper. Corner kicks have become genuine scoring opportunities since I started aiming for the penalty spot with about 75% power, then controlling the receiver to position for volleys or headers. What most players miss is the importance of varied throw-in strategies - I regularly use short throws to maintain possession, but every third or fourth throw I'll launch long toward the edge of the penalty area, which has resulted in 12 goals across my last 50 matches.

Player development and team management aspects often get overlooked but dramatically impact long-term success. MyClub mode requires careful planning, and I've found that investing in scouts with at least 70% compatibility significantly improves signing success rates. I personally prioritize developing young players with high growth potential rather than chasing expensive superstars - players like Asensio and Dolberg have become world-class in my saves after 2-3 seasons of regular play. Training should focus on specific attributes rather than general development; I typically dedicate 80% of training sessions to improving weak areas rather than strengthening already competent skills. This approach has helped me build teams that compete effectively against opponents with higher overall ratings.

The beauty of PES 2017 lies in how it rewards strategic thinking over repetitive exploits. Unlike some football games where certain moves become overpowered, this iteration demands adaptability and reading your opponent's patterns. I've noticed that successful players tend to have 3-4 different offensive approaches they can switch between seamlessly when one isn't working. My personal preference leans toward possession-based attacking, but I've learned to incorporate counter-attacking elements for when opponents press too high. The most satisfying moments come when you outthink rather than outmuscle your opponent - those perfectly timed through balls that split defenses or well-executed tactical fouls that stop dangerous breaks. These nuanced elements create those gradual improvements the Choco Mucho captain described, where each small adjustment contributes to noticeable overall growth.

What continues to impress me about PES 2017 is how its depth reveals itself over time. The initial learning curve might discourage some players, but persistence pays dividends. I've transitioned from struggling in regular difficulty to comfortably competing at superstar level by implementing these strategies systematically. The game's true mastery comes from understanding not just what to do, but when to do it - recognizing that sometimes recycling possession backward creates better opportunities than forcing forward passes. This thoughtful approach to virtual football mirrors real athletic development, where consistent refinement of fundamentals leads to breakthrough performances. After hundreds of matches, I still discover new subtleties that improve my gameplay, proving that in PES 2017 as in actual sports, the learning journey never truly ends.