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Here's my $.02 after playing the Early Access release for 6 hours. For reference, I played 2 hours of their new 'Tutorial' system, 1 'Play now' vs Denver and a few online ranked matches. All on All-Pro setting.
PROS
- Awesome presentation, halftime highlights, etc.
- graphics & eye candy getting closer to 'next-gen'
- improved OL/DL interaction & blocking AI. Finally can get a pass rush without wonky blitzes that confuse the AI
- various camera angles/zoom are really nice
- defensive AI is vastly improved
- tutorial system is awesome and explains offensive & defensive concepts & schemes, and how to make correct reads
- overall feels much more 'sim', and less 'arcade'. You are punished for throwing into coverage or missing the hole.
- new 'ask coach'/'community' feature lets you see what everyone else is calling on 3rd and X, and the success %. Pretty damn cool.
CONS
- AI is much improved, but they still have a bit to go.
- Commentary can get annoying
- defense reacts MUCH better to passes, but still DROPS picks a little too often
- new playcall system can be cumbersome to find what your looking for.
- personally dont care for the defensive line 'mini game' for pass rushing
- this one really pisses me off, especially in ranked online. On 4th down and your on defense, you CANNOT cycle through formations/plays UNTIL the offense PICKS. You have 10 seconds to find it. This is insane, especially for 4th down. I want to be ready in case they go for it on 4th!!
Overall I wont say that I'm impressed, but EA is definitely headed in the right direction and this one will do well.
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