The Missing Pieces: An Updated Checklist

[HamTonks]

I'm prepared to endure the flames of a thousand suns by posting this topic, but I believe there should be an updated checklist of all of the things "wrong" with NCAA -- possibly in order of priority (i.e. Realistic Physics vs. Colored Cleats). Things that people say need to be fixed or tweaked -- perhaps I believe that this single thread will catch the attention of EA Devs over the months that proceed.

This forum is a place where we can discuss the great and cringe-worthy aspects of the one thing we are certain we all have in common: NCAA Football. So, I invite everyone (in a sane and organized manner) to submit their biggest beef with the NCAA series -- problems that have yet to be fixed (and hopefully problems that can be crossed off of the list come July 14).

I, first and foremost, invite posters like Moostache and Moderators and Admins to contribute (hell, even EA Devs).

Topics like realistic, physical momentum, camera-angles -- anything big or petty. Discussing features is even a good idea, though it's probably best to focus on fundamentals. I'm not seeking to do EA's job -- just provide helpful feedback so that, in due time, everyone will be happy (though, there will always be something for someone to complain about).

I realize the "Wishlist" thread is similar, but I feel that this is an overall, more encompassing endeavor. Hope I don't step on any toes!

THE LIST (Not Yet Prioritized):

Last updated 6/18

Popular Topics:

Gameplay (Generally Speaking):
- User-Defined Camera Angles (FOR ALL MODES)
- Momentum (Player Movement Under User-Control -- Realistic Physical Momentum, Weight and Acceleration) -- The ability to change direction without loss of speed or losing an assignment ruins the strategy aspect of this game
- Formation Subs
- Fluid Player Animations (Running)
- Allow Roster Editing Online, Prior to Release

In-Game/On the Field/Player-Specific:
- Get Rid of "Suction" Blocking
- Effective Zone Blocking
- Combo Blocks
- Cut Blocks
- FB Should Effectively Block
- Fix OL AI for Screen Passes
- QB Pocket Play (QB Needs More Negative Consequences for Fleeing the Pocket)
- Better Framework for Realistic Defenses (No One Should Be Able to Run a Dime Defense Against Power I, etc.)
- Formation Subs
- OL/DL Needs Proper Blocking Interaction
- OL Schemes Need to Be Tweaked (Stop the Head-on Blocking Scheme)
- Correct Line Splits for the OL
- In-Game Saves
- Players Should Have the Tendencies of Their Real-Life Counterparts
- Option to Spread OL (a la Mike Leach and T.Tech)
- Improved AI (Plays as the Real Team Would)
- Realistic Injury Occurrences (a Realistic Number of Injuries per Game)
- Instant Replays: First Down Marker Needed
- User-Defined Game Start Times (For Home Games Only)
- DL Audibles: DL Audible Shouldn't Affect D-Linemen Falling Into Zone
- Tweaking/Fixing Player Cycling
- Make Running Inside and Outside Equally Balanced (Interior Running is Nearly Non-Existent in '09 -- Interior Defense ALWAYS Gets Off the Block to Make the Tackle -- Edge Defenders Don't)
- 85-Man Rosters
- Completely Dynamic Weather Interaction (Bodies in Mud, Snow, etc.)

Plays/Play Editing (This Issue Will Likely Only Work for Offline Play):
- Play Editor/Playmaker (Perhaps an Online Feature as with TeamBuilder)
- Custom Playbooks
- Fixing Broken Offensive and Defensive Plays (QB Choice, Option Plays -- Linemen Get In the Way -- DBs Switch Sides of the Field After Ball is Snapped and are in Zone)
- A True Shovel Pass Play
- Fix Shallow Crossing Routes
- More Option Routes

Dynasty Mode:
- A Realistic Top 25 (the term "realistic" is debatable)
- Recruiting (Needs elaboration, details, suggestions)
- Add Juniors, Less Amazing Recruits
- Accurate CPU Recruiting (Needed Positions, etc.)
- Spring Game
- Playoff Option
- Heisman/Award Presentation
- Realistic Improvements if Practice Mode is Used
- The Ability to Redshirt if a True Freshman is Injured

Campus Legend/Road to Glory:
- Bring Back Option to Move to NFL Draft or Become a Coach
- Spring Game
- Heisman/Award Presentation

Superficial/Cosmetics/Extras:
- Win Celebrations (Big Games, Big Plays)
- TD Celebrations (Realistic, More Subtle)
- Player Appearance/Diveristy of Players/New Player Models
- Capturing the Essence of Gameday/Team Entrances
- Halftime/Postgame Reports (a la NFL 2K5)
- Injury Reports
- Coaches/Staff on the Sidelines
- Realistic Cheerleaders
- Chain Gangs
- Referees
- Players/Field Show Realistic Wear-and-Tear Throughout a Game (No More Plastic Players)
- Having More Uniform Variations
- Stadium Details for 120 stadiums
- Dreadlocks
- Handtowels
- Other Equipment Additions/Modifications
- Menus (FOR ALL MODES)
- Army All-American Game or Under Armour Game for Incoming Recruits
- Handwarming Pouches
- True, Custom Stadiums
- Realistic Stadium Environment (Loud Crowds, Accurate Chants)

Mode Suggestions/Other
- Athletic Director Mode
- FCS Dynasty/Season Mode
- Senior Bowl
- iPhone Application (Editing Depth Charts, Recruiting, etc.)



I realize a lot of these concepts are easier said than done, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Try to elaborate on your suggestions if they are too vague. Saying that "the AI sucks" isn't going to be helpful. To anyone.

[boisejames]

After clicking the title I was prepared to post, "In before the lock" but after reading you post, I think this thread should stay...

One of many things I would really like... A realistic top 25 throughout Dynasty Mode... I'm sick of mid majors playing for the national championship... haha I know ME complaining about that...

I know that's not focusing on fundamentals but I wanted to post something that hasn't really been brought up a lot before because we all know there will be the "same olds" that will get this thread locked... Like I said though, one of many...

[I Peench]

Quote: Originally Posted by boisejames

After clicking the title I was prepared to post, "In before the lock" but after reading you post, I think this thread should stay...

What is it with you people and your need to write "in before the lock" when you feel a thread should be closed? Its obnoxious. You make it sound as if you just banged the hottest girl on earth minutes (or for you should I say seconds?) before she took a lifelong vow of celibacy.

[moylan1234]

I'll check back in on this thread July 15th when I may have something to contribute. until then to me it's pretty pointless

[boisejames]

Quote: Originally Posted by I Peench

What is it with you people and your need to write "in before the lock" when you feel a thread should be closed? Its obnoxious. You make it sound as if you just banged the hottest girl on earth minutes (or for you should I say seconds?) before she took a lifelong vow of celibacy.

Actually I have never posted that but I think people post that when they think the mods won't like it and close it not because they think it should be closed.

[Tarheel]

Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay
....and finally Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay

[boisejames]

Quote: Originally Posted by Tarheel

Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay ....and finally Give us the replay camera angles during gameplay

Which ones exactly? I can only seem to think a couple of them would work. Most would get to confusing controlling the direction you're trying to go.

[Tarheel]

Quote: Originally Posted by boisejames

Which ones exactly? I can only seem to think a couple of them would work. Most would get to confusing controlling the direction you're trying to go.

I would prefer the pressbox wide. This is a sore spot for so many gamers. Ian even took a poll....albeit he hasn't even addressed the results from the poll.