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Pro Evolution Soccer 2016

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Pro Evolution Soccer 2016
Item: Pro Evolution Soccer 2016
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresSimulation, Sports, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 15, 2015

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One

DeveloperKonami

Overview

Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 is a football simulation game. It is the fifteenth edition of the Pro Evolution Soccer series. The game features improved artificial intelligence, dynamic match weather, larger set of player animations, new night time lightning and a revamped Master League.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

story and narrative

Description unavailable

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 stunned with refined controls, realistic physics, and tactical depth, earning praise for fluid gameplay and balanced simulation—yet struggled with AI predictability, inconsistent refereeing, and goalkeeper quirks, marking it as a near-perfect contender to FIFA.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 received widespread acclaim for its refined mechanics, enhanced realism, and balanced approach to soccer simulation. Critics consistently praised improvements in controls, animations, and physics, with 3DJuegos highlighting "refined controls, better animation responsiveness, and smarter AI," while Atomix noted the game’s "responsive controls, precise animations, and improved physics." The emphasis on realistic passing, positioning, and player movement was a standout feature, as Digitally Downloaded described it as "elegant and fluid compared to FIFA," and GameSpot lauded its "realistic and fluid soccer experience" through dynamic possession battles. Eurogamer Italy and InsideGamer.nl both celebrated the tactical depth and strategic play, while Impulsegamer and PlayStation Universe highlighted the game’s balance between arcade-style fun and simulation, with GameStar praising the revamped Master League mode for its added depth. These improvements positioned PES 2016 as a strong contender to FIFA, with many critics noting its evolution from previous iterations. Despite the praise, several criticisms emerged regarding specific gameplay elements. Issues like goalkeeper behavior, predictable AI, and refereeing inconsistencies were frequently mentioned. Eurogamer Italy pointed out "predictable AI behavior" and "inconsistent refereeing," while Digital Spy noted that defending was "simplified but effective." Pure Xbox and Xbox Achievements criticized the game’s "lenient referees" and "overpowered through-ball scenarios," and PC Invasion highlighted technical flaws like "poor goalkeeper AI" and "inconsistent collision detection." Additionally, some reviewers, such as Games.cz, noted that PC-specific physics felt "unnatural," while GRYOnline.pl criticized limited animations. These issues, though not universal, underscored areas where the game fell short of perfection, particularly in balancing realism with consistency. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 delivered a significant leap forward in gameplay. While 3DJuegos and GameSpot acknowledged lingering flaws, they emphasized that the game’s strengths—such as its "tactical depth," "fluid passing," and "responsive controls"—far outweighed its shortcomings. Eurogamer Poland and InsideGamer.nl highlighted the game’s ability to blend realism with accessibility, while Push Square praised its "balanced, responsive, and realistic" experience. Even critics like NZGamer and PlaySense, who noted minor issues, acknowledged the game’s overall polish and engagement. The collective sentiment was that PES 2016 represented a major step forward, solidifying its place as a top-tier soccer simulation despite some technical and AI-related imperfections.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

PES 2016's FOX Engine dazzles with lifelike animations, dynamic lighting, and immersive details—lauded by Eurogamer Italy and Digitally Downloaded—but technical flaws, flat textures, and PC optimization disasters drag it behind FIFA in polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 received generally positive feedback, with many critics highlighting incremental improvements over previous entries in the series. The FOX Engine was frequently praised for its role in enhancing animations, lighting, and environmental details. For instance, Digitally Downloaded called the engine "gorgeous," noting lifelike player models and immersive atmospherics, while Eurogamer Italy commended enhanced weather effects, dynamic lighting, and detailed player likenesses. Impulsegamer and The Digital Fix emphasized attention to detail in character models and textures, such as moisture on players’ faces and improved stadium clarity. PlayStation Universe and Push Square also praised the game’s fluid animations and natural player movements, with the latter highlighting the Fox Engine’s ability to individualize actions. These elements collectively positioned PES 2016 as one of the more visually polished football games of its time, though not without flaws. Despite these positives, several critics pointed out persistent technical and aesthetic shortcomings. Issues like flat or inconsistent grass textures (e.g., Atomix and Eurogamer Poland) and lifeless character models under poor lighting (noted by GameSpot and Push Square) were recurring complaints. JeuxActu and InsideGamer.nl criticized outdated fonts, awkward menus, and visible aliasing, while LaPS4 noted that the game lagged behind FIFA in stadium atmosphere and dynamic weather effects. The PC version faced particularly harsh scrutiny, with Games.cz, GRYOnline.pl, and PC Invasion condemning its poor optimization, pixelated crowds, and outdated visuals compared to console releases. Additionally, some critics, like Eurogamer Italy and Vandal, highlighted inconsistencies in player facial details and environmental physics, suggesting that the game’s visual polish was occasionally overshadowed by technical limitations. Overall, the consensus among reviewers was that PES 2016 represented a solid step forward for the series but remained imperfect. While the FOX Engine brought notable advancements in animations, lighting, and weather effects—celebrated by Eurogamer Italy, Digitally Downloaded, and MondoXbox—many felt it still fell short of FIFA’s visual fidelity in areas like crowd immersion and stadium variety. The game’s strengths lay in its detailed player models, dynamic sequences, and improved atmospheric elements, but flaws such as lifeless character animations, inconsistent textures, and platform-specific issues (particularly on PC) tempered its overall impact. Critics like 3DJuegos and LaPS4 acknowledged progress but emphasized that PES 2016 was a "work in progress," balancing innovation with lingering technical and aesthetic challenges.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Mixed praise for PES 2016’s sound design—crowd immersion and commentary shine with emotional depth and lively atmospheres, but repetitive, robotic voice acting, poor weather integration, and overused licensed tracks undermine consistency, leaving a polished audio experience just out of reach.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 received mixed but generally positive feedback from several reviewers, particularly in areas like crowd immersion and commentary improvements. Impulsegamer praised the natural tone and emotional depth of commentators Peter Drury and Marco Hagemann, noting that their delivery, along with stadium sounds like crowd noise and ball physics, enhanced immersion. Push Square highlighted the "chanting crowds" as a standout element, while PlaySense commended livelier crowd sounds that added to the game’s atmosphere. Eurogamer Italy acknowledged improved commentary timing, and Vandal appreciated the inclusion of popular artists like Queen and Passion Pit in the soundtrack, even if audio quality was subpar. These positives suggest efforts to elevate the auditory experience, particularly through more dynamic crowd reactions and recognizable voice talent. However, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings, particularly in consistency, originality, and technical execution. 3DJuegos criticized the robotic and disconnected voice acting, while Digital Spy and InsideGamer.nl described commentary as repetitive and stilted, with "unimpressive" phrases and inappropriate shouting. Eurogamer Italy noted that weather sound effects, like rain, were present but poorly integrated with visual cues, and PlayStation Universe called out the lack of polish in sound design compared to other game aspects. We Got This Covered highlighted excessive repetition of licensed tracks, such as Queen’s "We Will Rock You," while Vandal criticized compression issues affecting audio quality. These critiques underscore a broader issue: despite some improvements, the game’s auditory elements often felt underdeveloped or inconsistent, failing to fully immerse players. Overall, the consensus among critics was that Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 made incremental progress in sound design and music but fell short of excellence. While Impulsegamer and Push Square celebrated specific strengths like crowd immersion and commentary nuance, many reviewers, including 3DJuegos, Digital Spy, and PlayStation Universe, emphasized recurring issues with repetition, robotic delivery, and technical flaws. The soundtrack’s reliance on licensed tracks and limited variety, as noted by Eurogamer Italy and Vandal, further highlighted a lack of originality. Though some elements—like improved commentary timing or lively crowd sounds—were praised, the overall impression was one of missed potential, with critics agreeing that the audio design needed more polish to match the game’s visual and gameplay ambitions.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Mixed reviews for Pro Evolution Soccer 2016’s voice acting: while Jim Baglin and Peter Drury’s energy, plus localized efforts like Italian commentary, shone, persistent issues—robotic delivery, poor synchronization, repetitive lines, and unengaging scripts—left it feeling stale, with critics calling it a major flaw despite scattered positives.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 received mixed but generally positive remarks from several critics, particularly regarding specific commentators and localized efforts. PlaySense highlighted improvements in the commentary by Jim Baglin and Peter Drury, noting their more energetic and timely delivery compared to previous iterations. Similarly, PlayStation Universe acknowledged Peter Drury’s increased energy, though it also pointed out that Jim Beglin’s lines were poorly recorded and unengaging. MondoXbox praised the Italian voice commentary by Fabio Caressa and Luca Marchegiani, emphasizing quality in the localized version. These positives suggest that while not universally flawless, certain aspects of the voice acting showed progress or regional strengths. However, the overall sentiment toward the voice acting was largely critical, with multiple reviewers pointing out significant shortcomings. 3DJuegos criticized the lack of continuity and mismatched situations, describing the commentary as robotic and poorly synchronized. JeuxActu and Games.cz both condemned the French and English voice work respectively, with the latter calling Peter Drury’s replacement a step backward due to his simplistic and unengaging delivery. LaPS4 noted limited dialogue lines, while PLAY! Zine and The Digital Fix lamented repetitive and uninspired writing that detracted from immersion. Xbox Achievements also echoed concerns about repetition, reinforcing a consensus that the voice acting often felt stale or underdeveloped, particularly during extended gameplay sessions. The overall consensus among critics is that Pro Evolution Soccer 2016’s voice acting was a mixed bag, with some improvements in specific areas but persistent issues that undermined its effectiveness. While PlaySense and MondoXbox acknowledged pockets of quality—such as Drury’s energy or localized commentary—the majority of reviews highlighted flaws like poor synchronization, repetitive lines, and unengaging delivery. Critics like 3DJuegos and Games.cz were particularly harsh, framing the voice acting as one of the game’s weaker elements, while others like PlayStation Universe and PLAY! Zine noted that these issues detracted from the overall experience. Despite some positive notes, the voice acting failed to meet expectations, leaving it as a notable area for improvement in the franchise.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

PES 2016 nails online stability and physics on PS4/Xbox One but stumbles on PC with outdated graphics, lag, and AI flaws—console versions shine despite quirks, while the PC port remains a mess.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 received mixed but generally positive feedback across platforms, with notable improvements in online stability and gameplay mechanics. On PS4, reviewers like 3DJuegos and Digital Spy praised the absence of input lag and smoother multiplayer experiences, while GameSpot and Telegraph highlighted refined physics and collision systems. The game’s AI and animations also saw praise, with Eurogamer Italy noting progress in tackling mechanics and IGN Spain acknowledging Konami’s efforts to address past engine issues. For Xbox One, MondoXbox and Pure Xbox commended improved online connectivity and consistent 60fps performance, though minor AI inconsistencies were noted. On PC, while some critics like GameSpot and GameStar found the technical performance solid despite minor glitches, others such as Games.cz and GRYOnline.pl criticized outdated graphics, weaker physics, and unstable multiplayer, highlighting a less polished experience compared to consoles. However, several persistent issues undermined the game’s technical polish. On PS4, while online stability was generally praised, Eurogamer Poland and NZGamer pointed out flaws like inconsistent referee behavior and UI glitches, while JeuxActu and LaPS4 criticized goalkeeper AI and collision realism. Game Informer and We Got This Covered noted gameplay quirks such as defenders neglecting through balls and flawed foul detection. For PC, the port faced significant criticism: Games.cz highlighted severe technical shortcomings, including outdated graphics and menu usability issues, while PC Invasion and Ragequit.gr cited input lag, online instability, and AI flaws that made multiplayer unenjoyable. On Xbox One, Pure Xbox and Xbox Achievements criticized clunky UI elements and unresponsive goalkeeping mechanics, suggesting the game still required refinement despite its core stability. Overall, critics agreed that PES 2016 represented a step forward in technical execution compared to previous entries, particularly in online performance and physics. While PS4 and Xbox One versions were largely stable with minor flaws, the PC port struggled with inconsistent optimization and maintenance issues. Reviewers like GameSpot and Vandal acknowledged strong core mechanics despite imperfections, while IGN Spain and Telegraph emphasized progress in AI and physics. However, persistent bugs—such as goalkeeper behavior, referee inconsistencies, and graphical shortcomings—were seen as areas needing post-launch fixes. The consensus was that the game was technically sound but not without flaws, with console versions offering a more polished experience than their PC counterpart.

TL;DR

technical performance

PES 2016 nails online stability and physics on PS4/Xbox One but stumbles on PC with outdated graphics, lag, and AI flaws—console versions shine despite quirks, while the PC port remains a mess.

Replay Value

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TL;DR

PES 2016 delivers robust replay value through tactical Master League, MyClub, and online play, but flaws like limited customization and technical issues temper its appeal. While FIFA’s polish still edges it out, PES’s depth and adaptability make it a compelling choice for soccer fans seeking strategy over flash.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of reviewers praise Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 for its robust replay value, emphasizing its diverse and engaging modes. Critics like 3DJuegos, Eurogamer Italy, and GameSpot highlight the depth of Master League, MyClub, and online play, noting that these modes offer extensive long-term engagement through tactical management, player progression, and competitive challenges. The inclusion of customizable options, such as squad building in Master League (as praised by InsideGamer.nl and LaPS4) and strategic elements in MyClub (cited by Gaming Age), creates a sense of investment for players. Additionally, features like improved AI, dynamic match conditions, and varied leagues (e.g., Champions League) are frequently cited as contributors to sustained playability, with GameSpot and MondoXbox noting how these elements make matches feel "dynamic and rewarding." The game’s ability to adapt strategies based on player injuries or roles further enhances its replayability, as highlighted by PlayStation Universe. However, several critics point out limitations that temper the game’s replay value. Eurogamer Italy and Vandal note that while modes like Master League and MyClub are strong, issues such as limited squad customization, flawed mechanics (e.g., player fatigue), and technical glitches (mentioned by NZGamer and PC Invasion) detract from the experience. Some reviewers, including Digitally Downloaded and Xbox Achievements, argue that FIFA’s Ultimate Team still offers a more polished off-field experience, suggesting PES 2016’s management systems lack the same level of refinement. Additionally, IGN Spain and PC Invasion mention content stagnation in certain modes and reliance on community-driven updates, which may reduce long-term appeal for some players. These critiques highlight that while the game is engaging, its replayability is not without flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that PES 2016 delivers strong replay value through its variety of modes, tactical depth, and online engagement, despite some technical and design shortcomings. Most reviewers, including GameSpot, Eurogamer Poland, and Push Square, agree that the game’s Master League and MyClub systems are central to its longevity, offering players hours of strategic management and competitive play. While issues like limited customization and AI inconsistencies are acknowledged, they are often framed as minor drawbacks compared to the game’s overall appeal. The comparison to FIFA is a recurring theme, but many critics, such as Game Informer and Impulsegamer, emphasize that PES 2016’s focus on realism and tactical nuance makes it a compelling choice for soccer fans seeking depth over flash. Ultimately, the game’s replayability is seen as robust, with its strengths outweighing its flaws in the eyes of most reviewers.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Pro Evolution Soccer 2016 as a significant leap forward for the series, highlighting its refined gameplay, improved realism, and balanced approach between arcade fun and simulation depth. Reviewers like GameSpot and Eurogamer Italy celebrated it as one of the best entries since the PlayStation 2 era, with Digitally Downloaded noting its elegance and flow surpassing FIFA in certain aspects. The game’s tactical complexity, particularly in modes like Master League, was frequently lauded, with Impulsegamer and PlayStation Universe emphasizing its accessibility and innovation. Many critics, including 3DJuegos and Game Informer, acknowledged its role as a strong competitor to FIFA, with IGN Spain and InsideGamer.nl highlighting its ability to fulfill fan expectations through improved physics, AI, and gameplay mechanics. The consensus was that PES 2016 marked a "new era" for the franchise, offering a more immersive and polished experience than previous iterations. Despite these positives, several critics pointed out persistent flaws that prevented it from being flawless. GameStar and PC Invasion criticized the PC version’s technical shortcomings, including poor optimization and licensing gaps, while Pure Xbox and Xbox Achievements noted issues like referee bias, inconsistent goalkeeping, and repetitive commentary. Eurogamer Italy and Games.cz pointed to missing teams, stadiums, and graphical inconsistencies as drawbacks, though they acknowledged the game’s overall strength. Some reviewers, such as NZGamer and The Digital Fix, felt it still lagged behind FIFA in polish and completeness, with LaPS4 noting that while improvements were evident, areas like voice acting and graphics required further refinement. These critiques, though varied, generally framed the game as a "solid" but not perfect entry, with many agreeing that its issues were minor compared to its achievements. The overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with PES 2016 being hailed as one of the strongest entries in the series and a compelling alternative to FIFA. While some reviews, like those from Games.cz and GameStar, expressed mixed feelings due to technical or licensing issues, the majority emphasized its progress and appeal. Eurogamer Poland called it the "best in the series," while PlaySense and We Got This Covered praised its gameplay depth and replay value. Even critics who noted flaws, such as Digital Spy and Push Square, acknowledged its competitive edge and evolution. The game’s ability to balance realism with accessibility, coupled with its tactical richness, cemented its status as a must-play for football fans, despite lingering imperfections. As GameSpot and The Telegraph concluded, PES 2016 represented a major step forward, proving that the series had regained its footing and was firmly in contention with its rival.

TL;DR

PES 2016 stunned critics as a massive leap forward, blending arcade flair with simulation depth, outshining FIFA in tactical richness and flow, but stumbled on technical glitches and polish issues—yet remains a must-play for football fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

98 reviews found

100

Telegraph

PlayStation 4

Oct 6, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

PES 2016 is praised as the best football simulation to date, excelling in on-pitch realism, strategy, and player control, despite minor technical shortcomings.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Oct 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes positively, praising PES 2016 as a deep and rewarding soccer experience that competes with FIFA. The reviewer acknowledges Konami's effort in creating a complete package despite minor flaws.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 4

Sep 15, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that PES 2016 marks a new era for the franchise, with significant improvements and a strong competitive stance against FIFA.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Oct 5, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

PES 2016 is praised as the definitive take on football, with subtle but effective improvements to its engine and gameplay. The review concludes it outperforms FIFA in elegance and flow, making it the preferred choice for most players.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Sep 22, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

PES 2016 is praised as one of the best football games, balancing realism and fun. While minor flaws in sound design, technical performance, and licensing persist, it surpasses FIFA in single-player depth and gameplay polish. It represents a strong step forward for the series.

GameSpot

Xbox One

Sep 14, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that PES 2016 is the best in the series since the PlayStation 2 era, praising its realistic physics, AI, and gameplay improvements. It's a standout soccer sim that delivers an immersive and enjoyable experience.

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We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Sep 22, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A strong entry in the PES series that builds on the success of 2015, offering improved physics, AI, and modes. Despite minor flaws, it's praised as a fantastic, authentic soccer experience with high replay value.

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PlaySense

PlayStation 4

Sep 21, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

PES 2016 is praised as a major improvement over its predecessor, offering realistic gameplay, better visuals, enhanced AI, and an improved Master League mode. While some minor issues remain, it is considered one of the best PES games to date.

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Eurogamer Poland

PlayStation 4

Sep 21, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that PES 2016 is the best in the series, with significant improvements across most aspects, though some minor issues remain unresolved.

Push Square

PlayStation 4

Sep 28, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

PES 2016 is an evolution of the series, offering refined gameplay, improved modes like Master League, and a balanced experience that stands out despite its flaws. It feels true to its title as a competitive alternative to FIFA.

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