Madden 10 - Will they prove us wrong?

eman · Post by **eman** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 7:08 am

I was exhausted last night but played the first half of a game. Here's a breakdown.

I used the Skins vs the Cards. Default settings.

First series I picked up 2 first downs before Cooley fumbled. Arizona scooped it up and returned it for a 50yd TD.

My second series ended with a 3 and out. It was frustrating too - I hit my FB on a perfect flat route (LB was blitzing from that side) but for some reason Sellers made an awkward move back inside and got hit for a loss. Had he turned up like he should have it would have gained 10 yards.

Arizona's first offensive series ended with a TD. Fitzgerald caught a crossing route and I took a bad angle with my saftey - the play went for 45 yards.

Third series I got a little something going but the drive stalled on their 34. FG was a little long so I went for it on 4th and 1. They stopped me on a dive play.

Arizona's second series ended with a FG to make it 17-0. I had very few answers for their offense.

My fourth series ended on a Portis fumble (I hate the new feature where you have to tap buttons to get the ball back). Are we turning this off for the online franchise?

Arizona got the ball back and scored another TD on a passing play. This one went to Steve Breaston.

At this point I was down 24-0 and ready for bed. My initial impressions are positive though - I noticed some over throws from Campbell that looked authentic. Some of the running annimations are gorgeous too.

I'd like to play all day today, but I have plans to take my wife out for our anniversary. Hopefully I can squeeze a few games in before lunch.

Zeppo · Post by **Zeppo** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 9:44 am

eman wrote:... but for some reason Sellers made an awkward move back inside and got hit for a loss. Had he turned up like he should have it would have gained 10 yards.

I've seen this quite a few times, too. It's the one weird quirky thing that happens enough to really annoy me. But I've also had plenty of such plays where it didn't happen and everything went fine, a bunch with Sellers, too. I don't know what causes this odd 'I MUST go back! Have to go back!' behavior, because it doesn't happen every time.

eman wrote:Third series I got a little something going but the drive stalled on their 34. FG was a little long so I went for it on 4th and 1. They stopped me on a dive play.

That's what Sellers is for! Don't give that ball to Portis!

wco81 · Post by **wco81** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 9:58 am

That sounds like if you drill the pass to the flats, the RB comes back towards the line.

So if you loft the ball more, you lead the RB more towards the sidelines or downfield.

But then if you lob it too much, it gives time to the defense to react, either the CB or another LB converging to the ball after it's passed.

Or the RB flat out drops it.

Gangrel · Post by **Gangrel** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 10:44 am

Is anyone else finding the ACC clock doesn't leave you with enough time to do adjustments and everything else at the line?

I sort of wish I could burn just 5 or 10 seconds, but the min is 15 for some reason.

I realize it's also my fault because it's forever for me to pick my play, but still......

I'm thinking I might drop the AC and just stick with 12 minute quarters to get the right number of plays.......

Also, did anyone buy the strategy guide? Does it explain good football strategy, or just a "team by team" thing?

I need help recognizing Defenses and tips on what to do with them!

pigpen81 · Post by **pigpen81** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 10:51 am

Any tips for running?

I am averaging 2 YPC with Tomlinson so far against the Lions and Chiefs.

Many times they have space, but seem to lack the speed to break through the space, and getting closed down unrealistically.

One time, I had Darren Sproles open with space on a screen pass, and Grady Jackson caught him from behind.

It just seems the RB's start in quicksand...it takes to long to get some pace.

Sometimes, I see the CPU runners run like they got shot out f a cannon.

Is anyone seeing this?

Anyone have tips for running?

Rodster · Post by **Rodster** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 10:55 am

pigpen81 wrote:Any tips for running?

I read over at operationsports.com that guys were having better success by not hitting the turbo button until they were in the clear. From what I gathered if you hit turbo when you get the ball it messes up the OL assignments of the play and things break down and the run is not as effective. Again that's what I read so take it with a grain of salt.

skinsfan · Post by **skinsfan** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 11:05 am

Rodster wrote:
pigpen81 wrote:Any tips for running?

I read over at operationsports.com that guys were having better success by not hitting the turbo button until they were in the clear. From what I gathered if you hit turbo when you get the ball it messes up the OL assignments of the play and things break down and the run is not as effective. Again that's what I read so take it with a grain of salt.

That's been true for the last several EA football games.Don't turbo until you get to the second level or turn the corner.Only use special moves until then.

XXXIV · Post by **XXXIV** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 11:13 am

Gangrel wrote:Is anyone else finding the ACC clock doesn't leave you with enough time to do adjustments and everything else at the line?

I have the same problem. I get 2-3 delay of game penalties per game... and even worse as I will run a play I know probably wont work to beat the clock.

Though I am getting a bit faster ...

Dave · Post by **Dave** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 11:18 am

Rule #1 when playing against the Raiders:

Do not throw it anywhere near Nnamdi Asomugha.

He ate me alive in a game this morning.

eman · Post by **eman** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 12:00 pm

ACC clock doesnt leave much time for adjustments - guess you have to find a play quickly and master/memorize the adjustment buttons.

I have too agree with the 'no turbo until youre in the clear' comment. This morning I've noticed no turbo = more broken tackles and better blocking inside the tackles.

This morning I rematched the Cardinals (default settings again) and beat them twice. In both games they outgained me by a wide margin, but turnovers did them in. I just stuck to a short passing game and tried to run consistently consistently. I moved the ball fairly well. I didnt have any turnovers in these two games which contrasts what I experienced last night.

I do have trouble stopping Warner, Bolding and Fitzgerald in the passing game. Maybe other teams wont be as tough???

Oh, the default settings are 7min w/ACC clock and I'm not getting enough offensive plays. I think I averaged 17 passes and 12 runs... not very realistic.

I think normal clock (8min) would give around 120-140 plays, but I want to stick with the ACC clock since so many others seem to prefer it.

sportdan30 · Post by **sportdan30** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 12:18 pm

I didn't realize there was a turbo button! I completed a pass to Curry who had at least 10 yards on the CB, and he was caught from behind. I was cursing up a storm. It was a sure touchdown but Curry seemed like he was jogging, not running.

I've only played a couple games so far, but I've already seen the opposing RB break off three tacklers and go for a touchdown. I had seen that animation in videos and in reviews. I hope it isn't a common occurrence every game.

I too am having trouble running with Steven Jackson. He's a better inside runner, but unfortunately it's the outside runs that seem to have the most effect.

I'm playing on the default level, so I am seeing my fair share of sacks against the CPU. I'm also having success using the right stick with my swim moves and getting to the QB and RB. I'm afraid if I bump up the skill level, I'll become frustrated.

Crowd atmosphere is much better than previous Maddens. However, as noted the commentary sucks! Everything seems spliced together, especially the half time show. Hammond has to go and while Collinsworth is decent, he and Hammond don't sound like they're in the booth together. Presentation is not even remotely close to The Show. That should be their main focus for next year. I'm sorry, but screw everything else. Focus largely on the broadcast. How many years have we been complaining about this?

Graphically, the game looks great and for the most part (weird seeing the number 00 on the sidelines of all the players...this is only on the PS3 from what I've read and only during the actual game play), the interface is seamless. My only complaint about the interface is the play calling screen. I use "play type". So, I have selections of pass, which include quick pass, standard pass, screen pass, shotgun, etc. However, if I want to switch to run, there is a slight pause when I press left. It's a minor complaint I know, but it feels like the controls are stuck in the mud for a second. Other than that, the pause screen is smooth which is something I couldn't say in year's past. What can I say..moving around the screens has annoyed me previously.

The game definitely has a one more game feel to it compared to previous versions. I'm looking forward to playing against other teams and seeing how they run their offenses. Also, I love checking out the stadiums as well. I would hardly call this a perfect NFL video game, and in my opinions there's a lot to be improved upon, but they've made significant strides from a year ago.

tjung0831 · Post by **tjung0831** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 1:47 pm

I don't know just yet....but I think i'm regretting trading in NCAA 10 for it at this point. It doesn't matter though...either one of them was going to be traded in for NHL 10 here in another month but I think I had more fun with NCAA 10. Will give Madden another go tonight. I'm playing on custom settings...sliders between default and the level above that and i'm not having problems running at all. I ran for 250 yards with Jackson in my first game and ran for another 200 with Chris Johnson from Tennesse in another. Running at this point is waaaay to easy.

Tim

fletcher21 · Post by **fletcher21** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 1:58 pm

Battling for fumbles is one of the DUMBEST things I've ever seen in an EA Sports game. What the hell were they thinking?!

MizzouRah · Post by **MizzouRah** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 2:48 pm

My first TD, Jackson a 2 yarder to the outside for 6!

Running with him outside is definitely the way to run with #39.

I love the injury system.. I did a QB sneak with Bulger and he was smacked and had to go out with a rib injury.. he did come back in later though.

The game is really fun so far.. with NCAA, I just worry about calling plays, in Madden I wait to see if I'll see something I haven't seen yet.

seanmac31 · Post by **seanmac31** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 2:57 pm

pigpen81 wrote:Any tips for running?

I am averaging 2 YPC with Tomlinson so far against the Lions and Chiefs.

Many times they have space, but seem to lack the speed to break through the space, and getting closed down unrealistically.

One time, I had Darren Sproles open with space on a screen pass, and Grady Jackson caught him from behind.

It just seems the RB's start in quicksand...it takes to long to get some pace.

Sometimes, I see the CPU runners run like they got shot out f a cannon.

Is anyone seeing this?

Anyone have tips for running?

Run to the double team block, then slide left or right.

Rodster · Post by **Rodster** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 3:59 pm

sportdan30 wrote: Graphically, the game looks great and for the most part (weird seeing the number 00 on the sidelines of all the players...this is only on the PS3 from what I've read and only during the actual game play),

You guys obviously have short term memory problems. I remember playing Tony Larussa Baseball back in the 90's and all the players on both sides and every position wore #11.

Zeppo · Post by **Zeppo** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 3:59 pm

I'm no master at running as yet by any means, but j may have a few tips for you piggie. First of all, make sure you do special moves right before contact, every single time. Use the R-stick, work the stiff arm, try a spin - anything, it almost doesn't matter. But if you just push the L-stick and turbo and hope, you won't get far. I also use the R-stick juke whenever I'm hitting the hole in the middle runs. Those moves really help you slip and slide into the holes and fall forward when you do get tackled.

I use the turbo right away only on the sweeps and pitches and it really helps me gain the corner. I have to remember to kepp my guy going square until I get past the contain man, and it works. If I'm running Sellers into the middle, I'll always use the R-stick UP and he almost always plows through that first man, which is as it should be. I'm sure the big tip from last year holds true- with a shifty guy like LT or Portis, use the R-stick for jukes just before getting hit, but with big power backs they are better with the R-stick up power move.

Ultimately, I've had such a nice balance of frustration and success with the running game, both on O and D, that I'm sure that as I get better at the game the running game will really be good. Remember folks we just got the game.

XXXIV · Post by **XXXIV** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 4:27 pm

Zeppo wrote:I'm no master at running as yet by any means, but j may have a few tips for you piggie. First of all, make sure you do special moves right before contact, every single time. Use the R-stick, work the stiff arm, try a spin - anything, it almost doesn't matter. But if you just push the L-stick and turbo and hope, you won't get far. I also use the R-stick juke whenever I'm hitting the hole in the middle runs. Those moves really help you slip and slide into the holes and fall forward when you do get tackled.

Deomonstrating these very good tips...

Not using the turbo button thus I can cut back to the hole with a juke. I do love those throwbacks.

<embed src="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/3.2. ... player.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="height=360&width=640&file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/ ... ="></embed>

Here Jackson get in the open field and just bursts thru the defenders using the right stick...

<embed src="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/3.2. ... player.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="height=360&width=640&file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/ ... ="></embed>

dougb · Post by **dougb** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 4:55 pm

There's a good deal of improvement in the game from last year. I'm in agreement that the game is on the right track and I hope that they continue in the same direction next year.

Commentary is horrible - not just lack of excitement from Hammond and awkward transitions but also pure errors in the announcing. I threw a pass for a touchdown and the commentary from Collinsworth was discussing how the running play developed.

Best wishes,

Doug

Zlax45 · Post by **Zlax45** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 4:59 pm

fletcher21 wrote:Battling for fumbles is one of the DUMBEST things I've ever seen in an EA Sports game. What the hell were they thinking?!

I love this addition though...

sportdan30 · Post by **sportdan30** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 5:10 pm

fletcher21 wrote:Battling for fumbles is one of the DUMBEST things I've ever seen in an EA Sports game. What the hell were they thinking?!

Agreed. Will be turning it off soon.

Great vids 34!

JRod · Post by **JRod** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 5:36 pm

34:

On the last vid, I wish the defender would have tried to hit him low. Again maybe that happens but it's something that would have happened in a real game. Maybe it has to do with that players ratings?

MizzouRah · Post by **MizzouRah** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 5:44 pm

The in game stat pop ups are nice.

Overall, they put a great deal of work into the game and it finally shows.

dougb · Post by **dougb** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 5:53 pm

Please put in an in-game save!

Best wishes,

Doug

Danimal · Post by **Danimal** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 9:11 pm

ScoopBrady wrote:So tired you're posting this in the wrong thread.

I just noticed that

i was in the other thread and i couldn't find this message I thought I dreamed I posted.