Game options allow changing the control scheme, setting the length of matches, and entering passwords to resume earlier tournaments. After a string of disappointing sports games on the Lynx, I'm pleased to say that European Soccer Challenge is a playable, well designed, quality title. The amount of detail crammed into this card is incredible. Each country has a stable of two to eleven teams, each with its own name, players, and attributes. Unfortunately, there's no way to see a team's abilities, so experimentation is necessary to find the better crews.
Controls are responsive, though a little complicated.
A team's goalie is operated by the computer, who blocks and acts intelligently. User control goes to the player nearest the ball, and uncontrolled teammates follow a standard formation selected before the match. Kicking is done with the A and B buttons for high and low kicks. Holding down a button lets you aim and set the strength, allowing you to run one way and kick in another. The overall action is brisk, and following the game is not difficult.