|
Preview  Madden 2003
- By Neal Gittens
E3 Impressions:
The Madden franchise returns to the Gamecube this fall, and it has taken an unforeseen turn into a completely new style of game. OK, so actually, it hasn't, but if it did, wouldn't that be weird? Think about it.
Madden returns for the Cube this August, and the game looks to build upon the greatness the series has delivered in its previous versions. Whether you just want to butt heads with your pal in a single game, or build your franchise up, you can do it all again, and with all the newest rookies and players that have switched teams.
The game looks very similar to previous versions, which is to say, it looks like football. The players move fluidly, as they have previously, and extensive motion capturing was used to, well, capture the motions for the players in the game.
The standard modes all return, and newly added this year is a travelling training camp type mode, where you take your players and practice various skills, to learn how to execute them properly and effectively. You'll move around the country, taking on various challenges in various locales. Everything from taking on hordes of tacklers singlehandedly to trying to pass efficiently. Quite the little side project for those who need to do everything within a game.
The franchise mode is greatly expanded as well. You now can scout players for your drafts between years, and even use your franchise team in exhibition play against a friend or the computer. Finally, a way to use your franchise for something other than Franchise mode! Joyous day! The expansions will make Franchise mode that much more in depth and addictive than previous installments, and that is saying something.
Now, players can also design their own plays to implement in the game. Want to send 5 recievers across the middle? Do it! Want to stack 9 guys on the line and blast it up the middle? Do it! Your imagination is the limit of your playbook now, and creative players will be able to craft plays that will boggle even the most experienced opponents. Get out your chalkboards now, guys.
Perhaps the best addition will be the new audio system and the addition of Al Michaels, Madden's new partner on Monday Night Football. One of my greatest gripes about last year's game was the commentary, and hopefully this will be a bit improved this time. If they can improve this single aspect, I will buy the game on that basis alone.
All in all, Madden 2003 is looking great, and in a few short months, the series will once again splash onto the scene. The splash mey seem to be getting smaller as the series moves along each year, but with all the changes and additions, this year could be a true cannonball. Everybody into the pool.
Neal
-05.29.02
In its 13th year, Madden NFL™ Football is the undisputed leader in authentic NFL football simulation. Its combination of jaw-dropping graphics and animations, realistic player AI, in-depth play modes, and the most innovative features is beyond comparison. With a primary focus on in-game graphics and game play, this is the best looking, sounding and playing football game ever. This season Madden NFL Football continues to establish why it is the definitive interactive football experience.
Key features include:
Mini-camp: Features John Madden’s Cruiser Tour Bus traveling to all NFL cities to complete skilled tasks. Take control of players in practice gear and become an expert in all player positions in your ultimate goal to earn unique Madden cards.
Audio Dream Team: The Monday Night Football team of John Madden and Al Michaels handles commentary, with dynamic play-by-play and more analysis than ever before. New audio engine delivers appropriate commentary based on current game situation and player/team statistics. Greater use of on-field player sounds, including player banter, offensive and defensive audible calls, crushing hits and improved crowd reaction sounds.
Improved Graphics: New signature player animations like sidearm QBs, gang-tackling, stand-still receiver catches; new cut scenes with high-poly cheerleaders and additional emotion-based bench scenes; more than 300 realistic player faces; cinematic approach to camera positions gives new, more natural feel.
New Game play Mechanics: Faster game speed; players follow through, making hits on people without the ball; tighter control with quicker animations and reduced player momentum; more finely tuned passing game; independent audibles for defensive line, linebackers, and defensive backs.
Create-A-Playbook: Customize receiver routes, player formations, and your team’s entire playbook. Create virtually any play imaginable and play it on the field immediately.
Franchise Mode Enhancements: Just as you can in the real NFL, you’ll evaluate and progress rookies, free agents and created players during a four game pre-season; Export a franchise team to exhibition play; Rookie Scouting Reports serve as a new way to evaluate rookies.
Ask Madden: Legendary coach John Madden provides strategy and advice during both offensive and defensive play calling.
Not content to just re-hash the already great Madden 02', EA has pulled out all the stops for what could be THE football game to own for the GameCube this fall.
-Travis
06.03.02
- 5.29.2002 |
 |
|
