The rivalry between the world's two premier soccer gaming franchises, Pro Evolution Soccer and FIFA, just reached new heights, as PES publisher Konami announced an exclusive deal with one of soccer's biggest teams, FC Barcelona. This means that the latest title in the franchise, Pro Evolution Soccer 2017, would feature extensive access to the team's most famous star players, such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.

Konami's deal with FC Barcelona means that players of FIFA 2017 would not see the team's home stadium on the EA-released game. However, Konami's exclusive rights to FC Barcelona only extends as far as the team's Nou Stadium. The publisher did, nevertheless, announce that it has reached a "Premium Partner" agreement with the famous soccer, giving PES 2017 extensive access to FC Barcelona's stars.

Thus, PES 2017 would feature Barcelona legends and historical kits, which are set to be offered in the game through the title's myClub mode for players accessing the game through their Xbox One and the PlayStation 4.

Also, Konami has announced that the game would fully feature the team's famous offensive playing style, complete with the club's anthem, "Himno."

Konami president Tomotada Tashiro has expressed his enthusiasm about the deal with FC Barcelona, stating that the acquisition of exclusive rights to aspects of FC Barcelona is a significant statement of intent for the company.

"This partnership will deliver access to the very best players in the modern game and to one of the world's most respected and ambitious clubs. The PES series is famed for its realism and control, so the fit between such a skilled team and a game that celebrates such ability is perfect," Tashiro said.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2017 is set to be released on Sept. 13 in North America, followed by a Sept. 15 release for European territories. The game, which is lauded as one of the most realistic soccer simulators in the market, will be available for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360 and PC.

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