The free kick system is similar to last year but, with the changes in ball physics there is a lot more spin on the kicks. It looks muuuuch better and definitely more realistic.
AT this point I'm not optimistic about some HUGE feature being announced in Leipzig later in August. I got the impression that the only thing that would come out of the conference would be the feature exclusive to the PS3 but, during my interview with Rutter he pretty much declined to answer anything about online mode. Tough to say what we should expect.
Look for more media to come out as we were told that they would supply us with new screen shots and videos. I WILL NOT give a time frame on when because they didn't give us one. So, stay tuned for that.
Expect to see a series videos called the "Making of FIFA 09". There will be a 10 minute preview and an extended 30 minute uncut version which will be part of a series of 8 or 9 videos. I was told to expect this "around release time".
Regarding the late release in the US, it is strictly a business decision to spread out the releases of NBA Live, FIFA, and I think TW. MAybe even NHL. It made sense.