In short, that's really the sort of thing which, for better or worse, we've come to expect from a handheld sports title. On the 3DS, PES 2011 has pretty good graphics, stilted but enjoyable in-game action, and not quite as robust a set of modes as you might actually want. One of the more interesting and better additions to the title is the in-game utilization of a portion of the bottom screen which allows you to setup various team strategies in advance and then simply tap one to implement them. It is a really good use of the bottom screen without having to make you constantly raise and lower your eyes during a game.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 3D has all those hallmarks of a launch title that make it fun and frustrating at the same time. From the poor default camera angle which highlights the graphics and 3D-ness at the expense 
of playability to the lack of precise controls for your players, one can almost see where the next iteration of the franchise on the system will head. The current title is good and is a better football game than the equivalent version of American football we've gotten on the 3DS, but it's not spectacular. Next year's version, however, might be (and maybe it will include online play as well).
If nothing else, the game has shown us that a great 3D sports title is certainly viable and something we should, without a doubt, be expecting to see on Nintendo's latest handheld.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 3D is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB.
Article comments
1 - Charles D.
Always nice to see a decent sports title on a handheld platform.