Better AI than ever
Graphics engine is the same, nothing new here, just like speaker's description (although there are some minor additions after about 5 years i think...)
Football life challenge (master league) is, i think, the better part of the game and the most difficult. You have the ability to design your avatar (personal data) and watch your creation (myself as a manager ha!) in the 3D engine... great fun.
Where game shines (even smoother than ever) is gameplay. This may not have FIFA licenses but with community modding you have a complete experience. Passes require more caution at targeting and dribling is exceptional... animation sequences are very realistic and with many additions... it's not now easy to score with far shoots... goalkeepers don't behave like morons and especially AI forwards are very unpredictable (i think this is greatest improvement of this year's edition)... many things at gameplay section now, depend on your players abilities NOT your ability as a skilled gamer, it's crucial to use your brain NOT your skilled fingers (this require some strategy thinking)... I really don't understand all these complains about same gameplay etc. have you people tried it at the top player level?