A Tale of Two Halves: The History of Football Video Games is a meticulously researched deep dive into the evolution of footy gaming. Written by football-obsessed journalist and historian Richard Moss—author of The Secret History of Mac Gaming—this 628-page book charts the genre’s journey from early 2D classics like Kick Off and Match Day to the 3D realism of FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer.
Covering over 400 games across multiple platforms, it features expert analysis, nostalgic deep dives, exclusive artwork, and 13 interviews with pioneering developers—including legends behind Football Manager, FIFA International Soccer, and Ultimate Soccer Manager. It also showcases stunning visuals, including hundreds of screenshots, pixel art from 8-Bit Football, and illustrations from James Reynolds' Unlicensed FC project, celebrating Pro Evo’s unique player names.
With a foreword by legendary commentator Clive Tyldesley, A Tale of Two Halves offers a fascinating look at one of gaming’s most creative and beloved genres. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or a retro gaming enthusiast, this book is an essential addition to your collection.
