Hey guys! Ready to dive into the classic football action of Pro Evolution Soccer 2017? Setting up PES 2017 can be super easy if you follow the right steps. This guide will walk you through everything from downloading and installing the game to optimizing your settings for the best experience. Let's get started!

Downloading and Installing PES 2017

First things first, you need to get your hands on a copy of PES 2017. You can either buy it from an online store or use a physical disk if you have one. Here’s how to get the game ready to roll:

1. Acquiring the Game

• Digital Download: If you're going digital, head over to platforms like Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Marketplace. Search for "Pro Evolution Soccer 2017" and purchase the game. After purchasing, the download should start automatically. Make sure you have enough space on your hard drive – PES 2017 needs around 30GB.
• Physical Copy: If you've got a physical disk, pop it into your DVD drive. The setup should start automatically. If it doesn't, navigate to your DVD drive in File Explorer (on Windows) and run the setup.exe file.

2. Installation Process

Once the download is complete or the setup starts from the disk, follow these steps:

• Run the Setup: If the installation doesn't start automatically, find the setup file (usually setup.exe or install.exe) and double-click it. This will launch the installation wizard.
• Follow the Prompts: The installation wizard will guide you through the process. You’ll need to agree to the license terms, choose an installation directory, and select any additional components you want to install (like DirectX or Visual C++ redistributables).
• Choose Installation Directory: It's generally a good idea to install the game on a drive with plenty of free space. The default location is usually fine, but you can change it if you prefer. Just make sure you remember where you installed it!
• Install Additional Components: The setup might prompt you to install additional software like DirectX or Visual C++ redistributables. These are essential for the game to run properly, so make sure you install them if prompted.
• Wait for Installation to Complete: The installation process might take a while, depending on your computer's speed and the size of the game files. Be patient and let it finish.

3. Post-Installation Tasks

After the installation is done, there are a few things you should do to ensure the game runs smoothly:

• Install Updates and Patches: Check for any updates or patches for the game. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements. You can usually find updates on the game's official website or through the platform you downloaded the game from (like Steam).
• Install Necessary Software: Ensure you have the latest versions of DirectX and your graphics card drivers installed. These are crucial for the game to run without issues. You can download the latest drivers from the NVIDIA or AMD websites.

Configuring Graphics Settings

Alright, now that PES 2017 is installed, let's tweak those graphics settings to get the best performance and visuals. Here’s how:

1. Accessing Graphics Settings

• In-Game Settings: Launch PES 2017 and head to the main menu. Look for the "Settings" or "System Settings" option. From there, you should find the "Graphics Settings" or "Display Settings."
• External Settings Tool: Some versions of PES 2017 come with an external settings tool. This tool is usually located in the game's installation directory. Look for a file named something like settings.exe or config.exe.

2. Adjusting Key Settings

Here are some key graphics settings you should adjust:

• Resolution: This is the most important setting. Set it to your monitor's native resolution for the sharpest image. If the game runs slowly, try lowering the resolution.
• Graphics Quality: This setting controls the overall level of detail in the game. There are usually presets like Low, Medium, High, and Very High. Start with a higher setting and lower it if you experience performance issues.
• Anti-Aliasing: This setting smooths out jagged edges in the game. It can have a significant impact on performance, so experiment with different levels to find a good balance between visual quality and performance.
• V-Sync: This setting synchronizes the game's frame rate with your monitor's refresh rate. It can prevent screen tearing but may also introduce input lag. Try turning it on or off to see which works best for you.
• Frame Rate: Some versions of PES 2017 allow you to set a maximum frame rate. If your computer is struggling to maintain a consistent frame rate, try limiting it to 30 or 60 FPS.

3. Optimizing for Performance

If you're experiencing performance issues, here are some tips to improve your frame rate:

• Lower Resolution: As mentioned earlier, lowering the resolution can significantly improve performance.
• Reduce Graphics Quality: Lowering the graphics quality settings will reduce the load on your graphics card.
• Disable Unnecessary Effects: Turn off any unnecessary visual effects, such as motion blur or depth of field.
• Update Graphics Drivers: Make sure you have the latest drivers for your graphics card. Newer drivers often include performance optimizations for games.
• Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background. These applications can consume system resources and impact game performance.

Configuring Controller Settings

To fully enjoy PES 2017, setting up your controller is essential. Here’s how to do it:

1. Connecting Your Controller

• Wired Controller: Simply plug your controller into a USB port on your computer. Windows should automatically recognize the controller and install the necessary drivers.
• Wireless Controller: For wireless controllers like Xbox or PlayStation controllers, you’ll need to pair them with your computer via Bluetooth. Put your controller into pairing mode and search for it in your computer's Bluetooth settings.

2. Configuring Controller Settings in PES 2017

• Access Controller Settings: Launch PES 2017 and go to the "Settings" or "System Settings" menu. Look for the "Controller Settings" or "Input Settings" option.
• Map Buttons: In the controller settings menu, you should be able to map the buttons on your controller to the desired actions in the game. Make sure to configure the buttons in a way that feels comfortable and natural to you.
• Test Your Configuration: After mapping the buttons, test your configuration in a practice match to make sure everything works as expected. If something doesn't feel right, go back to the controller settings and make adjustments.

3. Troubleshooting Controller Issues

If you're having trouble with your controller, here are some common issues and solutions:

• Controller Not Recognized: Make sure your controller is properly connected to your computer and that the drivers are installed correctly. Try restarting your computer or reinstalling the drivers.
• Button Mapping Issues: If some buttons aren't working correctly, double-check your button mappings in the controller settings menu. Make sure the correct buttons are assigned to the correct actions.
• Input Lag: If you're experiencing input lag, try connecting your controller via USB instead of Bluetooth. You can also try disabling V-Sync in the graphics settings.

Installing Option Files and Mods

To enhance your PES 2017 experience, you can install option files and mods. These files can add real team names, kits, logos, and even gameplay tweaks. Here’s how to do it:

1. Finding Option Files and Mods

• Reliable Sources: Look for option files and mods from reputable sources. Popular PES community websites and forums are great places to find them. Always download files from trusted sources to avoid malware.
• Compatibility: Make sure the option file or mod is compatible with your version of PES 2017. Some files are only compatible with specific versions of the game.

2. Installing Option Files

• Backup Your Data: Before installing an option file, it's a good idea to back up your existing game data. This will allow you to revert to the original state if something goes wrong.
• Follow Installation Instructions: Each option file usually comes with its own installation instructions. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure the file is installed correctly. Option files typically involve copying files to specific folders within the game's installation directory.
• Edit Mode: Some option files require you to import data in the game's edit mode. Follow the instructions provided with the option file to import the necessary data.

3. Installing Mods

• Modding Tools: Some mods require you to use modding tools like the PES File Explorer or the DpFileList Generator. These tools allow you to manage and install mods more easily.
• Follow Installation Instructions: Just like option files, mods come with their own installation instructions. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure the mod is installed correctly. Mods often involve copying files to specific folders within the game's installation directory or using modding tools to inject the mod into the game.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best setup, you might run into some issues. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

1. Game Crashing

• Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date.
• Check System Requirements: Make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for PES 2017.
• Verify Game Files: If you're using Steam, verify the integrity of the game files to ensure there are no corrupt files.
• Disable Overclocking: If you're overclocking your CPU or GPU, try disabling it to see if it resolves the issue.

2. Lag and Performance Issues

• Lower Graphics Settings: Reduce the graphics settings in the game to improve performance.
• Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background.
• Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date.
• Defragment Hard Drive: Defragmenting your hard drive can improve game performance.

3. Controller Issues

• Reconnect Controller: Try reconnecting your controller to your computer.
• Update Drivers: Ensure your controller drivers are up to date.
• Reconfigure Controller Settings: Reconfigure the controller settings in the game.

By following these steps, you should be able to set up Pro Evolution Soccer 2017 without any hassle. Enjoy the beautiful game!