FIFA 11 kicking off this autumn

FIFA 11 is set for release this autumn on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC, PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, PSP, and mobile devices, EA announced today. The game's key new feature is something the publisher has dubbed "Personality+." It distinguishes individual footballers from one another by utilising a database that evaluates and grades each player’s skill set over 36 attributes and 57 traits. This means a footballer's real-life skills will be reflected in the game. For example, Barcelona's Andres Iniesta will utilise tighter turns and close control to dribble through defences, while Manchester United's Wayne Rooney will hold off defenders and strike shots from distance with pace.

The database used in Personality+ is said to have been built up by a network of 1,700 scouts from around the world and will be integrated into every area of the game. Goalkeepers will also be getting in on the action, with their real-life traits--whether acrobatic or traditional--translated to the virtual pitch. Personality+ will be combined with new body types and player models to further enhance the realism of the game.

EA will also introduce a new Pro Passing system, which determines pass accuracy directly from a gamer's ability on the controls. The player's skill will be combined with the situation and urgency on the pitch to create a more realistic experience. There will also be new passing types, such as swerve, which will enable players to make safer and more effective plays.

FIFA 11 will once again be going up against Konami's Pro Evolution soccer series, which is also set for an autumn release. Pro Evo has suffered at the hands of FIFA of late, receiving less than enthusiastic review scores. FIFA, meanwhile, has enjoyed both critical and commercial success, with the 2010 iteration of the game selling more than 10 million copies. The latest release, 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, jumped straight to the top of the UK charts when it was released back in April.

EA has promised to reveal more new features of the game in the coming months. It has also invited fans to give their feedback and suggestions to the developers on the FIFA Facebook fan page.

For more information, check out GameSpot's first hands-on impressions of FIFA 11.