PES 2018: Mastering The Art Of The Shot

Oct 30, 2025 by Team 40 views

Alright, football fanatics! Let's dive deep into the heart of PES 2018 and master the art of the shot. Forget those frustrating near misses and weak attempts. We're talking about thunderous strikes that ripple the net, finesse shots that curl around the keeper, and those clutch goals that win you the game. This guide is your ultimate playbook for PES 2018 shooting, breaking down everything from the basic controls to advanced techniques. We'll explore how to choose the right shot type, understand player stats, and even take advantage of the game's physics engine to score goals like a pro. Get ready to transform from a casual player to a goal-scoring machine. Ready to dominate the pitch, guys? Let's get started!

Understanding the Basics: Controls and Fundamentals

Before we start scoring bangers like Ronaldo, let's nail down the basics. Knowing your controls is the foundation upon which all your goals will be built. In PES 2018, the shooting control is pretty straightforward, but the nuances are where the magic happens. Here’s a quick rundown to get you started:

Shoot Button: This is your primary weapon (usually the Square button on PlayStation or the X button on Xbox). A simple tap will result in a standard shot, while holding the button down charges up your power, resulting in a more powerful shot. However, be careful not to overcharge, as it can send the ball soaring over the crossbar.
Directional Control: The left analog stick is your aiming tool. It allows you to direct your shot towards the goal. Combine this with the power meter to aim with precision. Also, the direction in which your player is facing and the position of the ball relative to your player significantly influence the shot.
Finesse Shot: (R1/RB + Shoot Button): The finesse shot is your go-to for curling the ball around defenders or placing it just out of the keeper's reach. It's all about precision over power. This is perfect for those tight angles or when you want to avoid a defender's block.
Chip Shot: (L1/LB + Shoot Button): Use a chip shot to loft the ball over the keeper when he's off his line. Timing is critical here; a well-timed chip can be the difference between a goal and a missed opportunity. This is a game-changer when you're one-on-one with the keeper.
Power Bar: This is your best friend when shooting! It indicates how much power is behind your shot. The longer you hold the shoot button, the more power you generate, but keep an eye on it to make sure you don’t blast the ball over the stadium.

Mastering these fundamentals is crucial. Spend some time in the training mode, practicing various shot types and angles. Experiment with different power levels, and get a feel for how the ball behaves when struck with different parts of the foot. The more you practice, the more intuitive shooting will become, which is absolutely essential for consistently finding the back of the net. So, practice these basics, and you will become familiar with the ball physics and player's shooting animations to get an edge over your opponents.

Advanced Techniques: Elevating Your Shooting Game

Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to level up your shooting game with some advanced techniques. These tips and tricks will help you take your goal-scoring prowess to the next level, turning you into a true marksman. Understanding these techniques can be the difference between a good player and a great one. Let's delve into these advanced strategies:

Player Positioning and Angle: Your player's position relative to the goal and the ball is very important. Shooting at an angle can sometimes be more effective than a straight-on shot. Also, think about which foot your player is using. A left-footed player will generally be better at shooting from the left side of the field, and vice versa. Always try to position your player for the most favorable shot angle.
Shot Power and Placement: Controlling shot power is absolutely essential. A gentle tap might be all you need for a close-range shot, while a long-range effort demands a full-powered blast. Placement is equally vital. Aiming for the corners, just out of the keeper's reach, is often the best strategy. Practice placing your shots with precision, and you’ll start scoring goals that you thought were impossible.
Finesse Shots for Precision: The finesse shot is your secret weapon for accuracy. Use it to curl the ball around defenders or place it into the top corner. Practice curving the ball away from the keeper’s reach. Finesse shots are particularly useful in tight spaces or when you want to avoid a defender's block. Master them, and you'll become a nightmare for opposing goalkeepers.
Volleys and Headers: Volleys and headers are two other exciting techniques. In PES 2018, they can be very rewarding. Timing and player positioning are crucial when you want to execute a perfect volley or header. Make sure the timing is perfect and that your player is in the correct position. These shots can catch the defense off guard and can be spectacular.
Using Player Stats: Keep an eye on your players' stats. Attributes like Shot Power, Finishing, and Curve will heavily influence their shooting ability. Understand your players’ strengths and weaknesses. Also, consider the player's kicking foot. Use players with high shooting stats in optimal positions for shooting. This way, you can exploit their strengths and maximize your scoring chances.
Exploiting the Game's Physics: PES 2018's physics engine allows for some impressive goals. Pay attention to how the ball bounces and reacts to different surfaces. Use this knowledge to predict the ball's trajectory and set up your shots accordingly. Experiment with different shot types and angles, and use the environment to your advantage.

By incorporating these advanced techniques into your game, you'll be able to score goals that are more creative and unpredictable. Remember, practice is key. The more you hone these techniques, the better you'll become at finding the back of the net.

Shot Selection: Choosing the Right Shot for the Situation

Choosing the right shot type is often the difference between scoring a goal and missing the target. Understanding when to use each shot is crucial for maximizing your goal-scoring opportunities. It's not just about aiming and shooting; it's about making smart decisions based on the game situation. Let's break down the different shot types and when to use them effectively:

Standard Shot: Your bread and butter. Use this for most shots inside the box or when you have a clear sight of the goal. The standard shot is a great all-around option that offers a good balance of power and accuracy.
Finesse Shot: Ideal for placement and accuracy. Use it when you need to curl the ball around defenders or when you're aiming for the far post. This shot is perfect for those tricky angles and situations where precision is more important than power.
Chip Shot: Use the chip shot when the keeper is off his line. It's a great way to catch the keeper off guard and score easy goals. Also, It's about timing and aiming. Make sure your chip is perfectly placed. This one-on-one scenario is a great way to put the ball into the net.
Power Shot: This is all about raw power. Use it when you have space and a clear shot at the goal. However, be aware that these shots can be less accurate, so make sure you aim properly.
Volley/Header: Use these for the spectacular finishes! If you get a cross into the box or a rebound, make sure to take your opportunity. If your player is well-positioned, then the goal is almost guaranteed.

Each shot type has its advantages and disadvantages. By understanding when to use each one, you'll improve your goal-scoring ability. The best players can switch between these shot types seamlessly, adapting their technique to the situation. Remember, the best shot is the one that finds the back of the net. So, experiment with different shot types and find what works best for you and your team. Practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to try new things and see what happens.

Player Stats: Understanding Their Impact on Shooting

Player stats are the hidden ingredients that determine how effective your shots will be. Knowing which stats matter most for shooting can greatly improve your goal-scoring capabilities. Let's dig into the key stats that affect your player's ability to score:

Finishing: This is arguably the most important stat for shooting. It determines how accurately your player can place the ball when shooting from close range. A high finishing stat means your player is more likely to score when in a good position.
Shot Power: This stat determines how much power your player can generate behind their shot. A higher shot power stat allows for more powerful shots, but it's important to balance this with accuracy.
Kicking Power: This stat also impacts the power of the shot, particularly for long-range efforts. Players with high kicking power can launch the ball from further out, making them dangerous from distance.
Curve: This stat influences how much curve your player can put on the ball. A high curve stat allows for more finesse shots and the ability to curl the ball around defenders or into the top corner.
Shot Accuracy: This affects the overall accuracy of your shots. Players with higher shot accuracy are more likely to hit the target, even with a powerful shot.
Heading: If you love to score with headers, pay attention to the heading stat. A high heading stat improves the accuracy and power of headers, making your player more dangerous in the air.
Weak Foot Accuracy/Usage: This indicates how well your player can shoot with their weaker foot. If a player has a high rating in this area, they'll be just as effective with their weak foot as their stronger foot. Weak foot usage affects the frequency with which the player uses their weak foot.

Understanding these stats can help you build your team. Also, you can pick players who suit your style of play. Look for players with high finishing, shot power, and curve, and you'll be well on your way to dominating the goal-scoring charts. Knowing player stats can help you set up and change your strategy as well. This information can enhance your gameplay experience.

Practice Drills: Honing Your Shooting Skills

Alright, guys, practice makes perfect! Here are a few practice drills that can help you hone your shooting skills and become a true marksman in PES 2018. The more you practice, the more intuitive shooting will become.

Free Kick Practice: Set up free kicks in various positions and practice curling the ball over the wall and into the net. This will help you get a feel for the curve stat and fine-tune your aiming skills. Also, try different power levels and angles to see how they impact the shot's trajectory. This is a very valuable skill.
Penalty Practice: Practice taking penalties to perfect your composure under pressure. Vary your shot power, and aim to see how the keeper reacts. Experiment with different shot types and aiming points to become comfortable taking penalties.
One-on-One Finishes: Set up one-on-one scenarios with the keeper and practice chip shots and finesse shots. Focus on placing the ball accurately, not just blasting it at the goal. Take advantage of all the opportunities and polish your skills to be perfect.
Crossing and Finishing: Practice crossing the ball into the box and finishing with headers and volleys. This will help you improve your aerial skills and your ability to finish crosses. Practice with different players to get a feel for how their heading and jumping stats affect the shot.
Power Shot Drills: Set up shooting drills from outside the box to practice power shots. Focus on hitting the target with accuracy, and don't be afraid to experiment with power. Try different power levels and see how they affect the shot. This is a good way to test your skills from a distance.

Regular practice will help you build muscle memory and improve your decision-making on the field. The more you play, the better you’ll become. Don't be afraid to try new things and push yourself to become a better player. Get on the pitch and get practicing. You’ll be banging in goals in no time!

Conclusion: Becoming a PES 2018 Shooting Master

Alright, football fanatics, we've covered the ins and outs of PES 2018 shooting. We've explored the basics, advanced techniques, shot selection, player stats, and practice drills. Now it's time to put what you've learned into action and become a PES 2018 shooting master.

Remember to master the controls, practice your techniques, and experiment with different shot types and angles. Pay attention to player stats and use them to your advantage. Most importantly, practice regularly and don't be afraid to try new things. The more you play, the better you’ll become, and the more goals you’ll score. So get out there, dominate the pitch, and celebrate those incredible goals. Good luck, and happy gaming, fellas! Now, go out there and dominate the competition!