Goal: This petition calls on Konami to significantly re-evaluate and rebalance the Smart Assist feature in eFootball. We propose that Smart Assist be removed from competitive online divisions and events and instead be limited to casual and lower tier game modes, acting as an optional accessibility feature rather than a competitive advantage.

For many dedicated players eFootball has become an enjoyable and strategic football game. However the current implementation of Smart Assist is fundamentally undermining the competitive integrity and skill based nature of the game.

Based on player feedback and personal experiences, we believe that Smart Assist has evolved from a simple assist tool into a feature that automates critical aspects of gameplay, including:

• Perfect Passes and Shots: Smart Assist makes precise passing and shooting decisions, removing the need for players to develop their own timing and power control.
• Automated Defence: Smart Assist makes tackles, slides, and positioning decisions for players. This allows individuals to apply constant pressure without the skill required to defend manually, effectively closing the skill gap and negating strategic play.
• The "Comeback" Mechanic: We have observed a trend where players who are losing can turn on Smart Assist to gain an instant, unfair advantage, often leading to rapid comebacks with minimal effort.

This level of automation makes the game a farce. It actively overrides player decisions, turning what should be a test of skill into a battle of who can best leverage the AI. This is a direct slap in the face to veteran players, many of whom have supported Konami and the PES franchise for years - who have spent time honing their skills, and money building competitive squads only to have them devalued by a feature that rewards a lack of effort.

We are not asking for the complete removal of all player assistance. A less intrusive level of assistance in casual modes is a reasonable accessibility feature for new or less skilled players. However allowing a feature that enables players to win in top tier divisions with minimal skill is an unacceptable model that rewards the lowest common denominator. Smart Assist should at the very least be removed from P2P Divisions 1, 2 & 3 and competitive P2P events.

By signing this petition you are joining a collective voice asking Konami to acknowledge the frustration of its dedicated player base. We believe that a competitive game should be won on the merit of a player's skill not on the strength of an automated assist.

Sign this petition to tell Konami that competitive eFootball should be about player skill, not AI automation.