Not every sport game should be brought over to the U.S.
It's been quite a while since a Rugby game has hit Stateside. Thinking back to my Genesis days, I still have the same old question. Why the heck has this sport been brought over here? Along with Sumo Wrestling, Rugby shouldn't, in my opinion, cross the ocean. But alas it has, and there is a small following. Kind of like Lacrosse, Water Polo, and the all-important Kayak racing, Rugby requires skill, but just isn't domesticated enough for U.S. shores. If you happen to be a fan, I don't mean to offend you, but please give me my pigskin classic instead. Unfortunately, this isn't where Rugby falls short. It has many faults, and if you are to bring a foreign sport to the states, at least make it impressive.
Starting with the graphics, they are mediocre at best. Poor polygon models, and inferior animation first strike the eyes as less than awe-inspiring. For example, when the players are gang tackling for position, animation is virtually non-existent. It basically looks like a bunch of still models skating back and forth like on a foos-ball table. The game does have some nice tackling animations, but lets face it folks…this is no FIFA. Heck this is not even FIFA on 3DO, graphically. Throw in some nice stadium effects, and you still have a very disappointing engine. On the plus side, the action never affects the frame rate even with many players on the field. Overall though, the game has a very bland, lifeless look to it.
On the audio side, you get a very FIFA like atmosphere. Crowds cheering and rooting, and some English/Scottish announcers getting overly excited about less than exciting plays. Commentary is particularly nice, even if over-exaggerated.
The game plays fairly well, but it definitely is not a "pick up and play" type of game if you don't know the sport. Luckily there is a nice training feature that shows you what you need to know. The game plays very much like soccer in a way, but with an attitude.
The game is filled with your classic EA options. Over 600 players, World Championship, Tri Nations Tournament, 6 Nations Tourney, and the traditional Friendly bout are all at your fingertips. The game is also fully licensed so all your favorite Rugby stars will be attending. And they'll all be signing autographs! (Simpson's reference) Like the FIFA series there is plenty to do, but are you willing to put forth the effort for the sport of Rugby?
Overall, Rugby wasn't the most unpleasant experience I've had from EA; I just wish they'd put more attention on their franchise titles that failed last year. Will Rugby become a new household name in the states like the Colin McRae series, or will it wither and die for another decade. Only time and sales will tell. Hopefully EA will show mercy on our souls and make this a one time only affair and leave this to our friends in the UK.
