Nintendo Wii Review: NCAA Football 09 All-Play
Published July 27, 2008
The latest Electronic Arts (EA) college football game returns to the Nintendo Wii console and features several new options that create simple overall game play ideal for first-time gamers and casual players. The All-Play subtitle reflects a more player-friendly format, full of expandable options detailed enough to gradually increase the difficulty and A.I. challenges when desired. This title eliminates stressful button mashing while shifting detailed role-playing aspects to concentrate on popular Wii remote motion capabilities/strengths.
The All-Play format, also appearing in four other EA Sports titles, utilizes the Mii profiles and motion controls well, making it so game play creates an engaging all-age/skill level experience. Mascot games and practice modes can be great ways to learn capabilities quickly, as many familiar elements carry over from the previous game installments. This title still includes advanced options and features, like those satisfying replays, through manual selection.
The simplified controls feature three easy gestures. Players might find themselves doing a double-take on the description screen. This motion control enhancement allows anyone to jump in and play while reflecting the actual movements for a more tactical, physical experience. Throwing the ball is much more realistic than pushing a button. These multitasking passing options require choosing receivers through the direction pad on the remote along with the timing and throw velocity. Running the ball while shaking the Wii remote is a lot of fun as well as running the option play. The kicking controls utilize the nunchuk for the direction then players move the remote up to boot the ball.
The offline multiplayer mode supports up to four players so novice users can play with and compete against advanced players. Basic role-playing aspects and college activities boost the experience without the extensive Campus Legend mode. ESPN announcers have variable dialogue but don't feature pre- or post-game analysis. An absence of sideline graphics, which would boost the coaching elements a bit, and a shorter Dynasty mode (10 years) are some of the notable differences from other current console versions, but this game still entertains on a high level.
- Nintendo Wii Review: NCAA Football 09 All-Play
- Published: July 27, 2008
- Type: Review
- Section: Gaming
- Filed Under: Gaming: Nintendo Wii, Review
- Writer: Tall Writer
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Comments
Haha, when I saw Sparty on the cover in the tiny thumbnail I was like "What the hell happened to the avatars for the football players?"
I guess all of the sites have either been bought out by the EA machine, or they are just too afraid to make the big boys unhappy. This game is not at all good. I have already sold it back, and unless something changes very quickly, I will not be purchasing another EA game.
The graphics are very last generation. I honestly feel that the last Gamecube version looked better. The controls are not tight. It is a crap shot when it comes to passing. It is just smoke and mirrors. This is just a step backwards in what used to be my favorite franchise.





I've always enjoyed the Wii versions of Madden, but was a bit nervous when this "all-play" thing got announced for all Wii EA Sports games. But it sounds like I'll definitely have to check it out.