I haven't played ESPN as in depth as madden so far, but ESPN definitely has it's fair share of warts. The db glitch that dskillz mentioned is present, though it doesn't bother me that much because I can usually tell when it is going to happen before I throw it, and it's usually on comeback routes. Other than them trying to force the "pass off the bounce step" portion of the passing game, the sliders adjust any problems I have with the passing game, though the default sliders are bunk imo. Oh yeah, scrambling qbs just kill this game, not even just Vick, but any qb that isn't totally immobile can totally gut the d if it's not blitzing. The weekly prep and player progression aren't all that "intuitive" to me, but that may be because I haven't used that aspect of it all that much yet. There looks to be a decent faq on gamefaqs about that but it does seem to be a hassle. The rookie draft really sucks. On madden it was easy to find the player you were looking for, but on ESPN you are completely blind almost. Not even the scouting is all that helpful. I tried drafting once by myself, and another time using the comp's suggestions. Both times produced pretty random results, with my 1st rounders not even as good as my 3rd rounders. All the pertinent info isn't there easily displayed, and to top it off, you have a 3 minute clock . So as far as franchise goes, ESPN is a bust for me, though that may turn around somewhat. Some of the things I really like about the game though: - graphics (duh) - running game - audible system kicks ass - hot route system - no huddle offense - presentation - player animations - special move system
Oh, and both Nba live and 2k suck now. 2k used to be good, but they went away from the things that made it a good game.
How can anyone rate ESPN better than Madden when it hasn't been released yet. I think people simple have lower expectations for ESPN football than they do Madden, understandably so considering the price. Agree with CriscoKidd -- too many little glitches in the gameplay. Can't stand the way the RBs run standing straightup like it's electric football. Although, the presentation is great, that's only true for the Xbox version. The graphics and presentation is average to below average on the PS2. Anyway, Madden will be available at EB tonight to those who have reserved a copy . . . then we'll able to rate the two games.
I think I'm gonna wait for Madden. It's not a football game unless Madden's throwin' down some Maddenisms. NBA Live - the only thing that ticks me off is my guys can NEVER hit from the outside. If I don't dunk 40+ times a game, I'm gonna lose, 'cause they don't even hit wide open jumpers. What's that all about?
The thing that turns me off the most about madden is the cartoonish character models; all the players seem to have 30 inch biceps, massive shoulders, and tiny waists; It looks sort of absurd.
Good point, but the players models look allright to me, atleast this year. Dunta Robinson Kellen Winslow Jr. Roy Williams
the way the stadiums look just amazes me. i haven't owned a game system like this in years. but the reliant stadium on that game looks just like you're watching a television.
It's so realistic that, if you look close enough, though Ricky's visor, you can see his bloodshot eyes.
It looks better than in past years but there's still a few too many bulging calves and biceps to be realistic IMO; Roy Wlliams calf should not be as wide as his thigh.
So anybody have the game yet? I heard that some stores will have it in tonight. I'll have to do some searching. Cant wait
I was told Gamestop would be getting it in the early evening; which i'm sure is the case with the other places.
I have it. Just picked it up at the local EB. If you preordered, they were available after three. Of course, I am at work, so playing it will have to wait till later. Hopefully i'll be able to get out before 9 and get some good time in with it.
Picked mine up from FedEx this morning. It's incredible. In-freaking-credible. I haven't played ESPN, but that thing better cook you dinner while you play it if it's "better than Madden". Just amazing how in-depth it is this year.
Someone help me out here! Whether to get Madden or not, and whether or not to trade in ESPN for $15 if I do, is a major dilemma for me. There's 2 aspects of ESPN that I think I would majorly miss if I traded it in, so can someone who has Madden tell me if Madden has added comparable stuff? 1. I love that there are 4 different moves for your defensive linemen in ESPN, 5 if you count holding x for a "power push." I know in previous Maddens all there really was was a spin and swim move. Have they added anything else besides those two this year? 2. I like that ESPN has a separate "shoulder charge" button for runners, since I am 100% a power back guy, and I run probably 60% of the time. This combined with being able to tap x to get out of tackles makes the running really gratifying (though often too easy against the computer). Does Madden have anything like this this year? I'll also miss the descending contracts in franchise mode, but Madden's franchise mode is so much better overall that it isn't really a consideration.
Defensive lineman swim right (R1), swim left (L1), spin right (R2) and spin left (L2) along with the "shove" move (O on PS2). Not sure about "power" running. All I have is Quentin Griffin and Tatum Bell. I'll try to check that out though. I did hear that instead of hurdling this year, the triangle button covers up the ball like someone going into a pile. Like I said though, not sure yet. If it weren't for the Broncos game, I'd be going on hour 10 of this game. It's mind-boggling how comprehensive it is.
Yeah, that's the same scheme they've had the last couple years. That's disappointing. Hey, that would be cool. Let me know for sure on that triangle button if you can man, I would really appreciate it.
