I have an inside source that is at random contact with Andrew Wilson of Ea Sports and who has seen the alpha version of the game. I asked him a few questions on July 1 2003. Here was his response. Please do not ask me who this contact is, I will not say, he has been fairly reliable for me and I don´t want him to be bombarded with E mail questions. I have only e mailed him twice in the last month, so I know I have not become a nusense to him. If I get further info I will post. Here it is.
Hi there,
Apologies for not getting back to you earlier, but it has been very busy on
this side.
I spoke to Electronic Arts last week about the demo, but the best they could
promise me was a mid-July release.
Sorry, I am just going to give very short answers to the following
questions.
1.Are we going to be able to control the players that are going into the
rucks and mauls? ( Or is this just going to be computer generated?)
Definite player control. You will be able to build momentum by keeping
control of the ball for longer periods.
2. Are we going to be able to jump for the ball?
Yes, also you will have a Madden-style playbook to choose offensive plays.
3. Are we going to be able to create mauls? ( Or is this done at random by
the computer?)
As far as I could see from the Alpha, this looks to be player generated but
don´t quote me on that ; -)
4. Are there going to be different types of tackles? ( like high tackles,
stand up tackles, an diving tackles.
Definitely, you will be able to try and get away with more illegal moves
than previous versions.
5. Are there going to be fights?
Probably not. Did not see any.
6. What are the possible offensive moves(fend,sprint,sidestep,spin,drive
like a demented mole move?)
All the standard rugby moves have been included.
7. We have heard different reports on amount of teams, 67 or 95?
Not to sure on the exact amount, but you will be able to create 70 players.
Also, you will be able to create additional teams, but the game includes all
the major international and club teams.
8. On defense are you going to be able to rip the ball away from an
offensive player?
Yes.
Best
