Graphics look great and multiplayer is fun; but buggy AI, controls and incorrect implementation of rules will frustrate.
User Rating: 6 | Rugby League Live 2 PS3
After the forgettable previous 'Rugby League Live', it is little wonder I went into this game with such low expectation. Yes, it is clear from their marketing material that they had updated their graphics engine - but was this ever an issue players had with the franchise? While the first impression of this game is quite surprising, it is not until you are into your first match do memories of passing to noone, kicking after possession changes (because the tackle button and kick button are the same), and general flat-footedness of your teammates return and you really begin to get frustrated at this title. THESE ARE NOT BUDGET ISSUES. Keep the previous graphics, if you can't afford to upgrade, just give me playability and control. At least integrate the correct rules of the code. For instance, if the opposition knocks it on and I gather, but happen to run into touch doing so (probably from bad running controls) - IT IS STILL A KNOCK ON. By running into touch I don't forfeit the penalty that should have been given moments before (to a certain point). There are also often noticeable rule breaks in offside (teammates after kick), obstruction (or generally when the ball rebounds off a player), and shepharding.Even problems not in the previous version are now found in this game. Running from dummy half is nearly impossible when the dummy stands still for a microsecond (starting flatfooted), the unnatural AI of players and a defense line seemingly offside means cutout or flat passes are constantly intercepted, and the inability of the friendly AI to run onto the ball leaves you wondering why bother. There are, however, aspects in which the game has dramatically improved (not just graphics) that I feel deserve credit, and I think this installment is a somewhat bearable game in the sense that last title I was screaming for my money back within days, whereas I'm quite happy to keep this game in my collection. Multiplayer really saves the game here. By removing some aspects of the buggy AI from the game and replacing it with a human really does provide a rich platform for some intense and enjoyable gaming for Rugby League fans. I feel that the online mode especially provides a nice environment that creates real drama in the matches, and I have already found myself screaming in joy following a 79th minute intercept to win the game, and sitting back in disgust as my losing team throws a forward pass eating up the minutes. Overall, this game is bound to frustrate even the mildest of Rugby League fans. Whether it from the AI, the sticky controls or even just the lag in the online matches, you will most likely be screaming at your television before the first hour of gameplay. BUT, this game does deliver an overall enjoyable experience - and if you are a rugby league fan there will be moments that will astound you, make you smile and even make you proud (pulling off a gruber down the wing to score is particularly rewarding). As for the problems, this game doesn't need more budget, nor better graphics (but, again, do look great) - it just needs to provide a consistent and realistic "RUGBY LEAGUE" experience. First step, at least get the rules of the code right first - but I think this release is a nice platform for future development.
--