Innovative controls.. but still not there yet if you don't have a gamepad..
The gaming modes are rich and many.. graphics are great.. but some player likeliness is not quite there (van Persie, Nasri, Toure to name a few)
I love the soundtrack on this game.. definitely a nominee for GS best soundtrack award..
Gameplay is immersive and mouse controls add a dimension and control that was missing in FIFA 07 and 08.. but dribbling is still as difficult as ever if you dont own a gamepad.. that is the biggest let down for me gameplay wise.. EA should try to make dribbling easier on PC keyboard.. coz most of the gamers on PC dont use/own a gamepad..
I love the 'Be a Pro' game type.. where you can control 1 or more of the players.. Some of the challenges in 'Challenge' gamemode are really challenges and if you decide to play a season.. you have the option to control every aspect of gameplay from the formation that you design to the strategy you choose on the pitch..
All in all.. well done EA.. FIFA franchise was in danger of becoming boring like NFS has.. but FIFA 09 has brought something that gives a new life to the series..