Basically, FIFA ‘98 has taken the original FIFA 64 and added every feature that made ISS 64 a superior game. Similar in-game player identifiers have been added, similar team management options... everything that made ISS 64 a better game has been included. These copycat features haven’t transferred well, however. While ISS 64 is designed to appeal to novice and expert alike, FIFA 98’s poor interface makes even the simplest team management moves difficult. Overall, FIFA ‘98 just doesn’t feel as smooth and well polished as ISS 64.

Despite the obvious copying of ISS 64’s game design, ISS 64 is still a far superior game. FIFA 98’s characters are too small, the framerate is too low, and the control isn't up to par. All of these problems plagued FIFA 64 as well.

FIFA '98 is clearly an attempt to provide a more realistic soccer experience, but this realism hinders the gameplay for all but the most serious soccer fans (who should still find ISS 64 to be a more exciting game). For example, in an attempt to provide more realistic control over the game, EA has included the ability to aim your shots and passes using the Control Stick. This would be fine were it not for the fact that the Control Stick is also used for player movement. As it is, it's very easy to hit the pass or shoot button just as you dodge to the side, resulting in a bad pass or shot on goal.

In short, if you simply must have the FIFA license and real players, FIFA ‘98 is for you. If, however, an official license isn’t as important to you as solid gameplay, you’ll find ISS 64 to be a superior game in every way. I can’t imagine why you’d even want to bother with FIFA ‘98.