While FIFA 10 was focusing on 360-degree dribbling and pace, doubled down on strategy and physicality. The developers at Konami introduced a brand-new AI system dubbed "Topology."

PES 2010 built upon the success of its predecessors, introducing several innovative features that set it apart from its competitors. One of the most significant improvements was the enhanced gameplay mechanics, which provided a more authentic and responsive experience. The game's proprietary "Gameplay Gems" system allowed for more realistic player movements, ball physics, and AI behaviors, making the game feel more like a real match.

Historically, set-pieces in football games have been a crapshoot—awkward, difficult to control, and often ignored. PES 2010 tackles this head-on with a revamped free-kick and penalty system. The camera angles have been tweaked to offer a clearer view of the wall and the keeper's positioning. A power bar with a trajectory line allows for curling efforts that dip viciously over the wall, finally giving skilled players the ability to replicate the set-piece mastery of the world's best dead-ball specialists.