The enhanced likeness of Neymar Jr. and other players in PES 2017 contributed significantly to the game's realism and appeal. For fans of the Brazilian star, seeing him accurately represented in the game added a layer of enjoyment and personal connection to the gaming experience. It made the gameplay more engaging, as the visual fidelity helped players suspend their disbelief and fully engage with the game world.

The update to Neymar Jr.'s face and hairstyle in PES 2017 was more than a minor cosmetic change; it represented a push towards greater realism and authenticity in sports gaming. By accurately capturing the likeness of one of soccer's brightest stars, Konami set a new benchmark for player representation in sports games. This focus on detail not only enhanced the gaming experience for fans of Neymar Jr. and PES but also contributed to the ongoing conversation about the importance of realism and authenticity in video games. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the pursuit of realism, as seen in PES 2017's treatment of Neymar Jr., will remain a key factor in creating immersive and engaging sports gaming experiences.

Moreover, the attention to detail in player appearances set a new standard for sports games. It highlighted the importance of collaboration between game developers and athletes or their representatives to ensure accurate likenesses. This trend has continued, with subsequent sports games striving to match or exceed the level of realism achieved by PES 2017.

The emphasis on realism in PES 2017, exemplified by Neymar Jr.'s updated appearance, feeds into a broader conversation about the role of authenticity in sports video games. As gaming technology advances, the expectation for realism in graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics grows. The accurate representation of players, teams, and stadiums is no longer a novelty but a baseline expectation for many gamers.