It's release this year was never in doubt, but Electronic Arts has today revealed details on FIFA 09, the upcoming instalment in the annual football franchise due for launch later in the autumn.

In development at EA's Vancouver studio, FIFA 09's multi-platform launch will see features tailored to the strengths of each platform, together with the promise of greater gameplay realism.

"We have listened and responded to gamers and football fans around the world by building customized gameplay experiences for FIFA 09 on each platform," said Andrew Wilson, Vice President & Executive Producer for the franchise. "Everyone wants to play a football game that is customized to their system and delivers a unique and enjoyable experience. We understand that and have innovated features, created new modes and designed controls that are tailored to each specific platform."

According to EA, over 250 different elements have been implemented into the Xbox 360 and PlayStation editions, which suggests that the sluggish pace of the franchise in recent years may have been improved. Improved jostling for the ball, quicker reactions to first touch shooting, and more controlled dribbling all sounds like EA have been listening - though we'll reserve judgement until we take to the pitch ourselves!

"We listened to our consumers to make the changes that they wanted," said David Rutter, Producer of FIFA 09 on the PLAYSTATION 3 system and Xbox 360. "No other game has over 250 feature changes and additions focused on improving core gameplay. We have an absolutely authentic recreation of the real sport through attention to detail."

So far as other versions of the game are concerned, Wii's FIFA 09 will be falling under the newly formed EA Sports 'All Play' label, with options to play the full 11-a-side game or a paced 8-a-side version featuring Miis. Football's top players will be undergoing the Mii treatment, with the likes of Wayne Rooney joining Ronaldinho. Both DS and PSP handheld versions will be getting the 'Be A Pro' feature for the first time, whilst FIFA 09 on the aging PS2 is set to get the biggest game engine over haul 'in four years'.

The Be A Pro feature is also extended as 'Be A Pro: Seasons'; a variant on the Captain Your Country mode in UEFA Euro 2008, Seasons follows a single player on the team progress from squad player to national legend. Additional features are set to get an unveiling at Leipzig Game Convention at the end of August.

FIFA is traditionally launched on the last Friday of September, so we're just a dozen weeks from when '09' may very well kick off.