It's a dream for most video game players, to compete in an on-screen battle with someone who actually plays the game in real life.
The dream could become a reality Monday for soccer fans who want to try their hand at video futbol against a Chicago Fire player.
At the downtown Chicago Best Buy at the Hancock Center Monday, Fire players Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Jon Busch, Wilman Conde, Baggio Husidic and Patrick Nyarko will participate in the North American launch of EA SPORTS' FIFA Soccer 10, the video game which sports Fire designated player Blanco on the cover.
During the ceremony, the players will participate in an in-store fan tournament. They will also be available to sign autographs. The game will be displayed on flat screens throughout Best Buy as part of the tournament.
Fans can qualify to play by sending their name, number, address and email to tournament@chicago-fire.com.
The question, of course, is whether the players will play the video game as they play the real game. Will Blanco dance with the ball? Will Busch do any trash-talking? Will Nyarko try to take you down the line before hitting a key cross, or will he put a stop on the ball and move in behind you?
All of these questions could get answered Monday if you enter your name and get selected to play in the fan tournament.
The event will also include a performance by the Joffrey Ballet's Community Engagement Program, with 25 dancers performing the "Diski", the official dance of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. They will be joined by freestyle soccer jugglers showing off their soccer skills and stunts along Michigan Avenue.
The entertainment begins at 4 p.m. The Fire players will participate in video gaming at 5:30, and the fan tournament begins at 6 p.m.
Kent McDill is a contributor to MLSnet.com.
