Backbreaker Football

[tarcone]

First I have seen of this game. It looks real fluid and dynamic. It uses the euphoria engine. I guess that makes it more fluid and dynamic.

hxxp://www.backbreakergame.com/

[Epi_862]

I really feel like, everything shown from Backbreaker is a gimmick. You cant realistically try to compete with EA's Madden on your first year, and that seems like what they are doing.

Would've love to see them do maybe a Streetball game, or just flip the script a little.. But a pro game? Sounds WAY too much of a challenge for a small company. Streetball/ect version with some wild hits & physics would propably be awesome.

[Sgran]

I really feel like, everything shown from Backbreaker is a gimmick. You cant realistically try to compete with EA's Madden on your first year, and that seems like what they are doing.

Would've love to see them do maybe a Streetball game, or just flip the script a little.. But a pro game? Sounds WAY too much of a challenge for a small company. Streetball/ect version with some wild hits & physics would propably be awesome.

I agree that they should have started with a different game, but more because people know football too well and will pick apart the small problems with time. For example, i could imagine that everyone on the field looks and move the same way if they're all governed by the same physics. But I have to say I'm intrigued and if the price is reasonable I'll give it a whirl. Could anyone find the price?

[gstelmack]

This game is built to show off their CG-animation engine. The difference here is that instead of motion capture, they compute how the guy should move and include physics, etc. It's more computationally expensive, but takes a lot less memory as you aren't storing all the animation data. LucasArts was showing off this tech in an Indiana Jones game a few years ago.

Football is a good way to show off that they can handle 22 guys and make it look good. The main point is to sell their tech, not the game.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

OK, this game has my interest now. Noticed in this latest preview that they're going to have a career mode that is set up like soccer where you start in the lowest of three leagues and they have promotion/relegation between each of the leagues at the end of each year. College players will come in each year as well. This is a nice twist for those of us looking for something different.

Backbreaker Hands-On: Angle of Attack - News at GameSpot (http://www.gamespot.com/pages/news/story.php?sid=6252644)

[Antmeister]

Oh crap...yes that looks good.

[Antmeister]

So basically it will be a Pro Football version of FM. I hope this gets good reviews.

[k0ruptr]

Sounds cool , no injuries is an odd choice though..hmm.

[sovereignstar]

So basically it will be a Pro Football version of FM. I hope this gets good reviews.

How is that anything like the Pro Football version of FM? FM is the best sports sim on the planet and has been around for 18 years. This looks like a glitzy Maximum Football.

[Antmeister]

How is that anything like the Pro Football version of FM? FM is the best sports sim on the planet and has been around for 18 years. This looks like a glitzy Maximum Football.

You're right. I meant it is attempting to be a pro football version of FM. Either way, I am eager to hear the reviews of this when it comes out in a few months.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

You're right. I meant it is attempting to be a pro football version of FM. Either way, I am eager to hear the reviews of this when it comes out in a few months.

Price point will be a big factor in sales.

[Mustang]

Maybe this is the same game, but I thought there was another football game in the works where they made a big deal out of how the tackling looked and how physics played a part. I thought it was something like Extreme Football or something like that.. or is this it?

[Rizon]

Does it have beer tents?

[whomario]

Definitely looks interesting and i really like that they aren´t trying to copy Madden and really try to bring out a different type of game.
Hope those "european roots" ensure that the game will be released over here or at the very least be region-free ...

Videos on IGN, Passgame, Rungame, defense and highlight reel : Backbreaker - X360 - Xbox 360 Video game Videos at IGN (http://uk.media.xbox360.ign.com/media/958/958004/vids_1.html)

the running motions look off, then again so do Maddens (still, after so many years) ...
Tackling/Contact really look interesting (@mustang : I am pretty sure it´s the same, it has been announced like 3 years ago or sth, then had some "blue screen" type videos a year later and only last year really gained steam)

[darkenigma510]

Will pale in comparison to Maximum Football 3.0

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Really like some of the features they're putting into the game. Here's a developer video about the camera angles.

<object classid="clsid:D<param name="movie" value="http://www.viddler.com/simple_on_site/6c3d9be3" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="flashvars" value="fake=1"/><embed src="http://www.viddler.com/simple_on_site/6c3d9be3" width="437" height="265" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowScriptAccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" flashvars="fake=1" name="viddler" ></embed></object>

[Sun Tzu]

Meh. I remember seeing a gameplay footage vid of Backbreaker that reminded me a lot of Madden 2001. QB takes the ball, runs back 10 yards, throws 50 yards downfield off his backfoot to a triple covered WR at the goaline who jumps up, brings it down, and falls into the endzone.

:-\

Features are great, but if the game doesn't play well it isn't going to matter much. We'll see...

[Dutch]

So we get to see what this is all about on June 1st. I think it's more appealing than what I normally see as Madden alternatives. Hopefully this 1st gen game can work the kinks out by the time the NFL license is lifted in 2012...and maybe other developers can get a piece of the action to push Madden a little.

[Atocep]

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[k0ruptr]

that is pretty damn awesome actually. although I can't help but think of Maximum customization, maximum football. lol.

[Dutch]

that is pretty damn awesome actually. although I can't help but think of Maximum customization, maximum football. lol.

Um, yeah. I am still amazed that a single man could so perfectly destroy a word which had previously been held with such regard in gaming circles. :)

[Balldog]

I think I'll just buy this to support the cause, I think on the field might not be the best but we'll see.

[Apathetic Lurker]

EA will show up at the developers doorstep with a suitcase full of cash..Then get rid of the ones making Madden now....Goodby independence, hello new Madden cash cow

[QuikSand]

EA will show up at the developers doorstep with a suitcase full of cash..Then get rid of the ones making Madden now....Goodby independence, hello new Madden cash cow

Actually, a pretty legitimate business model.

[MacroGuru]

EA will show up at the developers doorstep with a suitcase full of cash..Then get rid of the ones making Madden now....Goodby independence, hello new Madden cash cow

It's what M$ did to Bungee to get Halo. I was at MacWorld when Halo was announced as the first real time 3D game of its type for the Mac.

[wade moore]

IGN article says May 18.

I'm intrigued by this game, but reading the IGN writeup (http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/107/1073474p1.html) I definitely have a "wait and see" attitude for this.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

IGN article says May 18.

I'm intrigued by this game, but reading the IGN writeup (http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/107/1073474p1.html) I definitely have a "wait and see" attitude for this.

FYI......release was bumped to June 1st.

[Apathetic Lurker]

No PC= No Buy

[gstelmack]

This game is built to show off their CG-animation engine. The difference here is that instead of motion capture, they compute how the guy should move and include physics, etc. It's more computationally expensive, but takes a lot less memory as you aren't storing all the animation data. LucasArts was showing off this tech in an Indiana Jones game a few years ago.

Football is a good way to show off that they can handle 22 guys and make it look good. The main point is to sell their tech, not the game.

Since I didn't feel like typing this all over again.

[DanGarion]

It's what M$ did to Bungee to get Halo. I was at MacWorld when Halo was announced as the first real time 3D game of its type for the Mac.

Well it played on the Mac. I saw it running on Macs! During development... :)

[Sun Tzu]

Just to reiterate, football gaming, for me at least, has gotten to the point where graphics are no longer important. If the game plays like a real game of football, then I'm happy. All I've seen so far of this game is gameplay that looks 10 years old, but with really cool graphics.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

All I've seen so far of this game is gameplay that looks 10 years old, but with really cool graphics.

We talking about Madden or Backbreaker? :)

[Sun Tzu]

We talking about Madden or Backbreaker? :)

Haha, at least in Madden they've eliminated the running back 15 yards and heaving a pass off of their back foot high into the air 50 yards down field into a crowd of 3 defenders only to have the receiver hit the jump button at the right time and come down with it.

Wait...haven't they? :)

Heh, but yes I'm talking about BB, not Madden.

[MizzouRah]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cp20TyZVxog

I'm actually thinking about picking this one up. I'm not much for Madden and the gameplay looks like a lot of fun.

[Groundhog]

Hmm. Looks good. Does it have a career mode with rookies, retirements, etc?

[MizzouRah]

I don't think there is any career mode, I did read something about a tournament mode where each team gets harder or something.. along with either an 8, 16, or 32 team season mode.

[k0ruptr]

I'm pretty sure there is a career mode, different tho than american football, its set up like european football (soccer) and has relegation and what not .

[Groundhog]

I'm pretty sure there is a career mode, different tho than american football, its set up like european football (soccer) and has relegation and what not .

That's what a new football game has to do to succeed IMO. Be different enough to attract Madden gamers along with non-Madden gamers. If it's not NFL I can deal with unrealistic rushing yards, blocking etc.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm pretty sure there is a career mode, different tho than american football, its set up like european football (soccer) and has relegation and what not .

Correct. There are three levels and you start at the bottom and try to get your team promoted through to the top league.

[k0ruptr]

That's what a new football game has to do to succeed IMO. Be different enough to attract Madden gamers along with non-Madden gamers. If it's not NFL I can deal with unrealistic rushing yards, blocking etc.

agreed and it sounds like fun to me.

[k0ruptr]

Correct. There are three levels and you start at the bottom and try to get your team promoted through to the top league.

sounds cool to me, I am looking forward to picking this up, but I can say right now I'm not gonna pay $60 bucks for it, price point it at 35 and I'd buy it right off the bat though.

[whomario]

in germany it´s at 40 euros compared to 60 for Madden :)

anyone notice the linebacker No74 getting tripped up after the block around the 20 second mark ?

Definitely different game, but why not ? And i agree with the above that i don´t really care that much about licences and stuff like that, allways loved Pro Evolution Soccer´s master league mode f.e. better than the half-assed attempts at realistic representation of soccer in FIFA.

There´s going to be 2 career modes, 1 a classic 1-league setup with either 8,16,24 or 32 teams or the aforementioned euro-system-type 3-league mode.

[Icy]

If i'm not mistaken, i think i have read that there is no fatigue and no injuries, so there is no need for backups, also i wonder how will be the players contract part of the game, i guess no draft, etc.

For what i have been reading, I see it more as a quick online football game with nice graphics or a game to play vs friends, than as a football sim for career solo playing.

[Eaglesfan27]

If i'm not mistaken, i think i have read that there is no fatigue and no injuries, so there is no need for backups, also i wonder how will be the players contract part of the game, i guess no draft, etc.

For what i have been reading, I see it more as a quick online football game with nice graphics or a game to play vs friends, than as a football sim for career solo playing.

That wouldn't surprise me. Like Greg has said before, I think this game is more about showing off the tech than being a great game experience. I hope I am wrong.

[MJ4H]

Even if that's all true, it is still a step in the right direction. This game has to be made to make the next step forward in football games and get away from the shitty Madden games at some point. I really hope something comes of it if not in this version, then a descendant.

[MizzouRah]

Passing tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWR73wCsQc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWR73wCsQc)

This is almost a day 1 purchase for me... will be following the impressions for sure.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Passing tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWR73wCsQc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWR73wCsQc)

This is almost a day 1 purchase for me... will be following the impressions for sure.

I'm the same way. I'll be picking this one up early on.

[whomario]

might not be the most pretty or swift looking game, but the features/ideas for the play on the court are miles beyond anything madden ever tried. Remember the half-assed QB vision-cone idea ?
Backbreaker has that in a like infinitely more though out version with that focus mode and also the camera angle.

Blocking allready looks much more realistic than Madden.

I fully expect the game to have numerous glitches and problems and also a ton of criticism for the lack of real NFL names as well as a couple gameplay slights (no fatigue or injuries is indeed a strange decicion).

But i am pretty sure it is a step in a right direction that can ultimately apeal to football novices as well as long-time madden players looking for an alternative.

[rowech]

It is making me interested for the first time. Some of the features are very different and seem to be pretty well done.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

might not be the most pretty or swift looking game, but the features/ideas for the play on the court are miles beyond anything madden ever tried. Remember the half-assed QB vision-cone idea ?

You know, it actually reminds me a lot of Tecmo Bowl in regard to selecting the receiver. Granted, there's a lot more involved with the bullet/touch, lead the receiver, etc., but the swapping from receiver to receiver is very much a Tecmo Bowl thing, albeit from the QB perspective as opposed to the top view.

[k0ruptr]

The Passing system is very innovative and hopefully works decently. If it does than yea these guys could teach Madden a thing or two. Then again, any 7 year old midget/pop warner player could probably teach Madden a thing or two as well :/

[rowech]

I guess for me, it'll boil down to a couple of things...

1. How much do I want real players?

2. What type of long term modes are there for backbreaker. Is there a season mode, a franchise mode, or something similar?

[rowech]

I also think it was very smart for them to get this game out two months before Madden...especially if it starts getting good reviews.

[Eaglesfan27]

I guess for me, it'll boil down to a couple of things...

1. How much do I want real players?

2. What type of long term modes are there for backbreaker. Is there a season mode, a franchise mode, or something similar?

#2 is the most important issue for me. Depending upon how well their "career mode" is implemented will be the deciding factor if I get this or not. I agree that coming out 2 months before Madden and a month before NCAA is smart.

[BrianD]

As much as I love a good career mode, I think it is a secondary concern for me in this game. If this actually plays a good game of football, I'd be happy with something approximating a season mode.

[aran]

The physics in this game are so impressive. To play a football game and actually have the action on the field look uniquely like football every play--that may be worth $35 alone. Looks like this game gets a lot of the visceral elements right at least as far as play on the field is concerned.

The career mode only matters to me in that it stitches individual matches together in a semi-meaningful way.

[NewIdentity]

This look and sounds a lot like Blitz The League I and II

Any connections?

Of course something tells me that this game will not have Lawrence Taylor on the cover. :)


BTW.... You can pick up Blitz the League II for $7.99
Blitz: The League II (PLAYSTATION3 NEW): N02-009216 iNetVideo.com - HD DVD, DVD, Blu-ray, Video Games, CDs (http://www.inetvideo.com/Items/N02-009216)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Some info concerning what's available in the upcoming demo.........

1: Getting to grips with it.

Backbreaker was designed around a new control scheme and a new way to play. Seasoned football gamers will instinctively want to hit the buttons to spin/juke/pass/truck etc. This is normal, but with a little practice you’ll be pulling off evasive and aggressive moves without thinking about it. To help get the hang of things:

i: Complete the training camp drills before leaping into Exhibition, this will give you all the tools you need to play the game.

ii: Consider playing Tackle Alley before Exhibition to help hone your basic running game skills.

iii: If you really don't get on with the dual stick controls after this, select "Alternate Controls" on the controller select screen. This moves the majority of controls to the buttons.


2: Tackle Alley tips.

i: Power moves are harder to pull off than jukes and spins, but earn you more points.

ii: After missing a tackle, the defense will get up and try to chase you down - be aware of who may be catching up behind you.

iii: Showboating will earn you more points, but you are much slower.

iv: Going over the red boundary is as bad as being tackled - wave over.


3: Exhibition tips.

i: Don't be afraid to start on Easy Arcade and work your way into the game.

ii: When kicking, or indeed receiving a kickoff, watch the wind. With strong winds, you can get a pretty good idea how far (or short) the ball is going to go.

iii: Player stats matter in Backbreaker! In the demo there are 6 teams to choose from with varying abilities. Here is the QA team's **unofficial** assessment of those you get to play with!

----------
UPFL Teams
----------
The UPFL sits below the BBFL in Road to Backbreaker, it's the 'middle' division. The teams that play in this league represent the 'Average' teams of Backbreaker. They have their individual strengths and weaknesses:


Charleston Cougars:
-------------------
This team is heavily biased to the offensive side of the ball, based around a long-time star player.

Strengths:
Behind the Center sits Cougar Greathouse, The Cougars' star Quarterback is regularly chosen as starting Quarterback for the UPFL division's All Star team. He's the cornerstone of the Cougar's offense, backed up by steady players at Fullback, Halfback and Receiver slots. Unlike some of the weaker teams in their division, they are capable of leaning on the passing game whilst still mixing up their playcalling.

Weaknesses:
With the team being built around the talent of Greathouse, their Defense has lacked the big star names needed to dominate. Though they play hard they can sometimes be exposed when playing tougher opposition.

Smart teams attempt to break down the Cougars by attacking their O-line, which isn't as strong as their passing numbers make out. Many teams seek to blitz through and bring down Greathouse before he can make the play. No Greathouse, no Cougars.


Columbia Colonels:
------------------
A well rounded team, with their star player, Craig Swanson, bringing the pain at the outside LB position. Marshall Coy at Quarterback has a strong arm but is often restricted by his receiving corps, which lack a stand-out passing option. They favor maintaining possession, controlling the clock and slowly moving up the field rather than throwing long for big gains.

Strengths:
Strong all round team, good Defense.

Weaknesses:
Often lack the ability to make that one big play against a superior team.



----------
BBFL Teams
----------
The BBFL contains the best teams in Backbreaker. In all there are 32 BBFL teams, 4 of which are represented in the demo. All these teams should be able to hold their own against the UPFL teams relatively easily - when playing with them, bear the following in mind:


Pittsburgh Pioneers
-------------------
The Pioneers are one of the more unusual teams in the BBFL. While Devonte Levy at TE typically wins the praise as the Pioneer's main playmaker, their true strength perhaps lies in their special teams where they have a strong set of players with which to gain strong field position, put points on the board and swing close games in their direction.

Strengths:
One of the best Special Team units in the League. Their kickers are accurate and powerful, while Isai Kelly, at Kick Return, piles the pressure straight back on whenever he touches the ball.

Weaknesses:
They have problem positions, Donavan Sexton at FB often getting the brunt of the blame, having not lived up to the promise he showed when he was drafted by the team, Sexton has increasingly proved himself to be a weak link in the Pioneers' offense.


Chicago Talons
--------------
The talons are one of the weaker teams in the BBFL. With the exception of Alan Gomez, star RB, their Offense often lacks the power to make the big play when under pressure. In an offensive shoot-out, the Talons have a habit of coming out second best. When things are going their way they rely on shutting down opponents with their strong D and trying to keep momentum rolling with their running game.

Strengths:
Very strong D, especially at CB. Good special teams. Though Gomez often has to carry the weight of his team on his shoulders, if can break into the open field, he can do major damage.

Weaknesses:
Lack of options on offense, can struggle to get back into a game if it starts going against them.


Indianapolis Spartans
---------------------
The Spartans are a tough team to beat. Taking them down requires containing their offense - easier said than done. Those trying to break through their O-line by Blitzing are often forced to rethink things pretty quickly. Getting through to sack Reed Wagoner at Quarterback is easier said than done.

Strengths:
Awesome offense. Even though McPherson is said to be somewhat slow at WR - the Spartans have enough options in their receiver corps to spread the ball around. Once a defense has been weakened, they often strike a killing blow with their star Tight End, Stone Lara.

Weaknesses:
It's hard to find any, which is why they are currently sitting pretty near the top of the BBFL. Their Defense isn't the best in the league, but it won't help most teams that come up against these guys. You need to bring your A-Game against the boys from Indiana.


Oakland Scourge
---------------
The scourge are a team built from the backfield. Their secondary is amongst the best the league has to offer, and they tend to keep a lid on somne of the league's toughest offenses. Their star player on offense is Dexter Houston a Running Back, renknowned for being tough and reliable. Houston is at his best when running downhill for consistent gains that are tough to stop. Strong fast and agile, Houston embodies the way the Scourge play. It's often said that the addition of a world class QB would put the scourge right up there amongst the best of the best.

Strengths:
Very strong secondary makes it difficult for opponents to make big gains. Often teams will be reluctant to throw long against the scourge, as it's a team that prides itself on Ballhawking.

Weaknesses:
They talk about replacing the QB for a reason. Corey Stark could be generously described as an average BBFL QB.

[whomario]

Maybe this is exagerating, but the guys behind that seem to really put their heart and soul into this game, kind of reminds me of a fantasy author creating a world to write about in how they really create an alternate football universe with alternate gameplay and new control system. Even if the game doesn´t keep up, it´s hard to not give them an A+ for effort from the info we´ve been given.
Then again, as the new guys in town they have to give a better effort than Madden to stand any chance of establishing themselves.

[MizzouRah]

Dates for the demo:

"Xbox Live Gold - Friday 21st 9am PST
Xbox Live Silver - Friday 28th 9am PST
PSN - "incoming", we expect it on Tuesday."


Looks like I'll be busy tomorrow afternoon...

[Eaglesfan27]

Looking forward to trying the demo tomorrow night.

[ShaneTheMaster]

So... anyone play the demo yet?

[MizzouRah]

I tried it briefly today.. lots of things to do in the demo, game menus are well done.

Actual gameplay is "ok" for me so far with limited time playing.

I don't like the default camera, although I know they are simulating the limited view a player has on the field. I also don't like all the times I have to hit A to get past the replays and such.

Will spend more time with it later.

[MizzouRah]

Wow.. no more impressions?

I'm going to play some more tonight.

[Eaglesfan27]

Wow.. no more impressions?

I'm going to play some more tonight.

I'm downloading it now.. but it will need to be very good to keep me from switching to RDR in a bit.

[Eaglesfan27]

Only played the training camp and 1 exhibition "game", which is actually locked at a half that has 2 2 minute quarters. I picked the pro mode which I assume is a simulation mode since the other mode is "arcade." I played on the medium difficulty level (easy, medium, and hard are the three choices.) I played as Indianapolis vs Columbia. We had vastly better ratings. I felt the skill of their star OLB as he sacked my QB twice, but otherwise I was able to move the ball at will and the QB threw 3 picks right at my guys in that short period. As a result, I won easily 35-0. Not that encouraging. I'm going to move up to hard difficulty and see if the QB makes better choices. The other issue I had is that both teams had too many fumbles and too many big hits. I saw 4 fumbles between us in 2 2 minute quarters.

The positives are the physics which generally look good, although not all of the time as backs seem to be able to change their direction a bit too quickly and drastically at full speed in my opinion. Overall, not that impressed, but intrigued enough to give it another few tries before RDR sucks me in again..

[Eaglesfan27]

Looking forward to hearing some other people's impressions but I'm not that impressed right now. There are some great wow collisions, but also a lot of stupid football plays that I've seen in just the 2 demo games. For example, the computer loves to throw it the HB for a loss of 4 or 5 when it is getting pressured. All QB's love to throw Tebow like jump passes, particularly when pressured. QB's are being allowed to throw it far down the field when getting hit at times, although with an awkward animation playing and poor accuracy. Running seems too difficult while passing is a bit too easy so far. I've seen DB's collide with each other twice in 2 short games allowing the receiver to go untouched for a TD. Neither one of the plays was particularly bang-bang and it didn't look authentic. Also, there are too many sacks off blitzes. I played as the worse team this last time and still got 4 sacks off blitzes in 2 2 minute quarters. Maybe this is just a demo thing but it seems like all players may only have 4 ratings (maybe it is just 4 listed on the depth chart) - Focus, Speed, Strength, and Agility. Hopefully, that is just a demo depth chart thing.

On the plus side, some of the WR/DB hits look amazing. QB's are sometime inaccurate. A lot of the hits look very good.

Anyway, I'll give it another try tomorrow, but this demo does not entice me to pay full price for this game, assuming it is 50-60 dollars (or even 39.99.)

Edit: One other thing I do like is the camera angles which give a much more limited view of the field and make you feel more like you are playing whatever position you are at on the field at that time. That is done well at least for QB and LB, in my opinion.

[MizzouRah]

I would agree somewhat.. I'm not impressed as much as I thought I would be, but to me, the camera angle leaves a lot to be desired.

There is no peripheral vision, which kind of makes the game a tad borning for me.. not being able to see what's going on besides your view doesn't do much for me, I still like to see all of the action.

Stadiums are great.. maybe later on when it's not $50.

[MizzouRah]

It's growing on me - the hitting alone makes the game worth putting some time into it.

I really like the running, but passing is damn tough and I feel like a lucky man when I complete one. If the camera was back just a bit further, I think I would really get the hang of it.

Spins are hard for me to pull of, but the rest isn't too difficult.

I love how your player starts gasping for air if you hold the aggressive button too long.

Defense isn't too bad if I play safety.. but again, I would like the camera pulled back.

I'm still on the fence and with NCAA 11 coming, I'm not sure I'll get it until it drops to $20-$30.

Really impressed with all the tackling/hitting variations though, I've seen so many cool hits and tackles!!!

[Julio Riddols]

I thought the game felt kind of alien to me, and I could rarely truly tell what I was doing when running the ball. There is no real ability to feel where defenders might be coming from, and that makes it kind of a wham bam, how many yards did I get? kind of thing unless you manage to break into the open field, where it seems there is at least a little time to survey the scene.

I also wish there were other camera options, as limiting to one camera view really sucks when it cant have been that hard to have multiple or even custom camera views.

And watching replays.. Why show only from my player's P.O.V.? Why can't I see other angles of the action? Lame for when I want to really look at the game and see what happened on a given play from a better perspective. Not as enjoyable as I had hoped, can only hope they try again and refine the system based on feedback to give the game more realism and the player more options. What good are the impressive physics based animations if you only get one or two glimpses of a great tackle or block before you have to move on, when one could sit for a couple minutes and really enjoy the details of all the action taking place?

I give it a 2/5, and this is from a guy who hasn't been able to enjoy a football game since Madden 07 for the original XBOX.

[MajikMan77]

Sure the tackles are nice and all but does anyone else feel the models are um....awful looking? I keep expecting them to whip out a gun and shoot my QB in the face as they look like they are wearing body armour. Also whats with every freaking player looking like Randal McDaniel with the cool visor in his helmet?

I had this game preorderd and if anything, this demo has me considering cancelling it :banghead:

[MizzouRah]

Been playing some more and the camera angle is just killing it for me. I just don't feel connected to the rest of the game.

A pulled back camera would do wonders for me.

[Raiders Army]

The game arrived in the mail today from Gamestop. I played a little bit and completed the tutorial (the only one I can't get is the lob pass).

The game seems very fun overall. I like how the running game and passing game are different from Madden and NCAA Football. I also like playing the defensive side of the ball...it seems much more like playing real football.

The cons are the create-a-team. It's not very intuitive at all. I haven't played the online part of it yet and I'm not sure I will.

Overall, it seems as if it's a solid effort, especially compared to Madden 07 (I think that was the first 360 version).

[MizzouRah]

Too bad the CPU AI is horrible, the playbook is limited, and lots of goofy bugs from what I've read over at OS and a review from Game Informer.

They did announce a BB2, so I'm sure they will use this years feedback and improve on the AI and what not.

[Groundhog]

I haven't played the online part of it yet and I'm not sure I will.

From a few reviews I've read it sounds like online is where the game really shines, outside of some lag issues. By all reports it's the AI's inability to not throw picks or run the ball that are the game's biggest issues.

[MizzouRah]

Anyone wanting to pick it up cheaper: Backbreaker Football - Xbox 360 - QVC.com (http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.item.E216354.desc.Backbreaker-Football-Xbox-360)

[Raiders Army]

Okay, I played online and I've played a little in the Road to Backbreaker.

It's simply not a good game.

The pluses:
The tackling is amazing.
Running the ball feels more organic than Madden.

The minuses:
Play selection is very limited.
Create a team is very work intensive. It'd be better if they did it like NCAA Football.
No NFL license.

The NFL license thing isn't a dealbreaker, but it would greatly enhance the game.

[aran]

I think the NFL license would make it too comparable to madden. THe idea behind this game should be to release a unique football game with features you can't find in Madden and a radically different approach to many aspects. I think using a multi-tiered league style of play is very cool and hope they come up with other unique twists to add to the picture in BB2.

[MizzouRah]

Okay, I played online and I've played a little in the Road to Backbreaker.

It's simply not a good game.

The pluses:
The tackling is amazing.
Running the ball feels more organic than Madden.

The minuses:
Play selection is very limited.
Create a team is very work intensive. It'd be better if they did it like NCAA Football.
No NFL license.

The NFL license thing isn't a dealbreaker, but it would greatly enhance the game.

Somebody over at OS has NFL teams that you can import or something like that..

The game will be in the bargain bins at some point and I might pick it up then, especially if there is a patch.

[MizzouRah]

Patch is due out soon and if it really does some of what they state, I might pick this one up instead of Madden 11.

From the NaturalMotion Games team:

Over the past few months, the team at NaturalMotion Games has been talking with the community and listening to all of their ideas for Backbreaker. We’ve taken it all on board and, as you know, we’ve been working hard on an update. As a tribute to the Backbreaker forums’ favourite player, we’re naming this update “Greathouse” and it does a whole lot more than simply tweak a few things here and there. We’re very nearly done and now we want to share with you exactly what “Greathouse” will bring to Backbreaker.

One final thing. We take great delight from seeing all your videos and we’re humbled by your support and enthusiasm. If you’ve seen something uniquely amazing in Backbreaker that made you smile, laugh, point, call a friend or rub your eyes in amazement, then you ‘get’ Backbreaker… and we’ve made this game, and “Greathouse”, for you.

Key Additions

Brand new replay camera suite

• New free-flight camera
• Sideline and Endzone cameras including ball lock, pan and tele-zoom function
• A player-centric camera including zoom and rotation function. Track any player on either team.
• Ball camera including zoom and rotate
• Complete replay suite functionality added to Tackle Alley
• Added pause/play to all replay cameras for greater footage control
• Added ability to remove OSD for clean footage capture


Offensive Gameplay Camera

• The Quarterback camera has been pulled back and raised a little. This still keeps the feeling of being down in the action, but provides a slightly wider view and vision over the line
• Added a ‘glance’ button which allows you to instantly check your blind-side


Expanded Playbook

An Extra 59 Offensive plays consisting of these formations:
• Ace – Double Tight End
• Spread – 4 Wide
• Bunch – Bunch right
• Empty – 5 WR!!
• T-form – Old fashioned power football, 3 running backs in the backfield

An Extra 51 Defensive plays have been included consisting of these formations:
• 44 – 4 Defensive linemen, 4 linebackers.
• 46 – Traditional old school defense born of Buddy Ryan
• 33 – Nickel package with 3 defensive linemen and 3 linebackers
• 3 Deep – 7 defensive backs package with 3 deep across the back.

Gameplay Enhancements

Improved Passing Game & Reduced Interception Frequency

Following valuable feedback from reviews and Backbreaker forums, we rewrote elements of the AI that will help make passing a more effective way to gain yards.

Here is a summary of the changes:

• We’ve improved the O-Line for teams throughout the game. This will give you longer in the pocket to make your reads correctly and go through your progression
• We’ve increased the passing animation speed and increased the minimum distance where a long windup will be required. You will now be able to execute the pass more quickly and hit your target more effectively
• There were too many dropped passes to the flats. We’ve introduced a new pass classification for these simple passes and have ramped up the accuracy of the QB when performing this type of pass
• The accuracy of QBs has been increased across the board
• Defensive Backs now fully respect their visibility cone, only seeing interception opportunities when appropriate. The DBs will continue with the assigned role until the either “see” the need to change, or “hear” the need to change, which is typically about 1-2 seconds after the snap
• We’ve tweaked the amount your QB will lead a receiver when activated
• Moved pump fake to shoulder button to make lob passes easier to execute
• Improved mechanism for Quarterback scanning the field
• Reduced penalty applied for throwing out of focus mode




User Interceptions and User Controlled Catching

• Following community feedback, the user is now given full control over interception attempts when controlling a defensive player. Interception attempts are made by holding the left trigger (focus mode), ie. by actively looking towards the ball as it comes in
• Wide Receiver catching in now also uses this mechanic (i.e. hold left trigger when ball is approaching)
• To signal an incoming ball, the user-controlled WR will be highlighted red when targeted by the QB

QB AI Logic

The QB AI has received a major overhaul. Firstly, the opposition QB will now recognise double coverage better. He is also more likely to throw the ball away rather than risk a throw / take a sack. This results in fewer AI interceptions and sacks. We’ve also reworked the QB receiver selection logic and increased prioritisation of throwing to the primary.

Improved Pocket Protection

Following numerous tweaks, the pocket is more solid. Pocket time now averages around 5 seconds and is all linked to the players’ attributes.

Show and Hide Blitz

New ability to show and hide blitz, pre-snap , by pressing the shoulder button.

Jukes and spins

The animation speed of these has been increased and better linked to a player’s agility attribute.

Improved AI Time Management, Audibles and Play-calling

Sophistication of play selection, audibles and timeouts has been improved. Additionally, the AI is more likely to flip their selected play depending on the situation.

Opposition AI

This has been given an overhaul and you should find your opponent much more of a threat. We’ve also rebalanced Easy, Medium and Hard settings to be more challenging and linked almost all AI decisions/speeds to their attributes. Also, you should be aware that all of the notes relating to AI, animation and behaviours above will apply to your opponent as well. These are game-wide changes.

New RB Focus Mode

When holding the left trigger, the camera will turn upfield when the RB is heading towards the sidelines. This is NOT automatic – you need to press the hold the trigger to manually glance upfield.

Stumble Mechanic

We have added a stumble recovery mechanic for when your player has been knocked off course. To recover from a stumble, just press the Action button as quickly as possible.

Fumbles

• Fumbles are now more likely to happen for non-QB players.
• Passes backwards are now classified as fumbles (respecting QB arm movement direction)
• Catches bobbled / dropped within 2 steps as a result of a tackle are marked as incomplete passes rather than fumbles (player deemed not in control of ball)
Bug Fixes & Other High Priority Issues

Friendly Fire!

Your players occasionally reacted too strongly to friendly physical impact. This happened especially when controlling a RB/FB and clashing with your line. We’ve dialled that back, which should make your running game more effective. Players will still react to the collision but will be less likely to be knocked down

Penalties

Users have been reporting a multitude of penalty issues. We have done a comprehensive review of all penalty complaints and bugs (including the infamous roughing-the-kicker) and have been able to resolve them. We believe you will find this drastically improves the quality of the game.

Online Gameplay

• Reduced online lag slightly
• Built in a new protection system against people hacking the game to create a “super team” and taking it online
• Removed the Cancel Stats Posting option as reported by the forum. People were abusing this to avoid losses showing up in their profile
• Fixed a number of other stat posting related issues

D-Line

• Users playing as part of the D-Line were experiencing a slower-than-desired speed in getting off the mark due to a delay in input control. This has been solved
• Users playing D-line can now bat the ball (pull down on the right-stick)
• Spins, rips and swims are now more effective to help you get that sack

Too much Boom!

Stopped “Boom” playing every kickoff. It now only occurs at the start of each half. Yay!

Team Ratings

Offense, Defensive and Overall ratings for teams have been recalculated and now more accurately reflect the quality of the team if all the best players are on the field.

Play Exploits

Thanks to feedback from the forums we have put tweaks in place to prevent exploits on the following:
• RB spinning through the line
• QB sneak
• FG block
• Punt block
• Nanoblitz

Rule Fixes

• Players must take 2 steps before they gain possession of a caught ball
• Tipped punts and kick-offs that touch receiving team players and subsequently go out the back of the endzone no longer cause safeties (just touchbacks).
• Intentional Grounding penalty now causes a loss of down.
• Scrimmage kicks (punts/field goals) can only be returned by the kicking team if blocked before the line of scrimmage
• Two Minute Warning will only stop the game clock after the play has ended.
• Defensive/Offensive Pass interference rules are turned off when the ball touches a player.
• Pre-snap penalties (Encroachment, Delay of Game, False Start) no longer stop the game clock.
• Touchbacks and Safeties are determined by whoever intentionally touched the ball last, instead of whoever physically touched it last.
• Failed field goals restart at the 20 yard line or the point the ball was kicked from (used to be from the 20 yard line or the previous LoS).
• Improved Pass Interference detection.
• Defensive Holding rule now active during punts.
• Game clock is only stopped by a penalty if it is within the last 2 minutes of the first half, or the last 5 minutes of the second half.
• No longer declaring a pass as incomplete if a player catches it in the air with their feet out of bounds (the feet must be grounded).
• Fumbles on a 4th down, or within the Two Minute Warning, can only be advanced by the Defense or by the player who fumbled the ball.
• Improved the "ball carrier" logic.
• Now awarding a touchback when the punting team catches a non-live ball in the opponent’s endzone
• A ball is only considered blocked/batted if it changes the impetus of the ball.
• Intercepting the ball before your own endzone but being carried into the endzone with momentum will now give a touchback instead of a safety.
• If a QB fumbles a ball while in the motion of throwing (i.e. hands moving forwards), then this is now considered a forward pass.
• Ineligible receiver downfield during a pass down penalty now excludes tight ends."

[MJ4H]

Wow. Pretty awesome list.

[k0ruptr]

They really do pay attention and listen to customers, that is interesting. How are they going to dominate the market and create a roster update every year with all this work they actually are trying to do? They will never top madden omgwtfbbq!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Very nice. Definitely good to see.

[MizzouRah]

Too much Boom!

Stopped “Boom” playing every kickoff. It now only occurs at the start of each half. Yay!


That one made me laugh.

It is quite an impressive list of fixes and it seems to me they have been working hard since it's release quite some time ago.

[Groundhog]

Very nice to see.

[kcchief19]

Aside from the refreshing lack of a beer tent, I didn't really find anything redeeming about the game. It would take another couple of bug fix lists of that length and depth to get it on a level that is both fun and playable. I haven't even made it through a game yet. It's hard to get into and while there are a few good graphics moves, the game really lacks something.

[whomario]

Will definitely give the game another go, has huge potential and the concept has some intrigue definitely.

as for the import of NFL teams :

http://forum.backbreakergame.com/showthread.php?t=8012&highlight=european (http://forum.backbreakergame.com/showthread.php?t=8012&highlight=european)

haven´t tried it myself, link is for the 360. Just browse their customization-forum for more info.

[Apathetic Lurker]

If this game is even moderately successful, EA will show up with bags of loot and devour it.....goodby competition

[Groundhog]

From Dubious Quality:

Dubious Quality: Backbreaker (Greathouse #3) Impressions (360) (http://dubiousquality.blogspot.com/2010/08/backbreaker-greathouse-3-impressions.html)

Backbreaker (Greathouse #3) Impressions (360)



The Backbreaker patch isn't good.

It's great.

Remember how we all wanted to like this game, and then it actually came out and we played it and said "Oh crap, this game has cancer"? And remember how 505 Games said they were working on a patch, and then they came out with a patch list that basically shat rainbows, and we all said there was no way they could pull it off?

Well, they pulled it off.

This may be the most dramatic improvement I've ever seen in a game via patch. All the possibilities that Backbreaker represented, all the unique qualities that were designed to capture the intensity of being on the field--they nailed it.

When this game was originally released, the average Metacritic score was 54. I wrote this:
"This game is a 90 that was released in 65 condition."

I also listed these problems with the game:
--the CPU A.I. was utterly incompetent on offense, both passing and running.
--sacks and interceptions were far too high.
--incorrect rules interpretations.
--no accelerated clock.

There was actually quite a bit more than that, but by then I felt like I was piling on.

So what is the game like post-patch?
--the CPU offense is entirely competent
--sacks and interceptions are within normal range.
--rules errors have been corrected.

There's still no accelerated clock. Hey, so Santa only left a dozen presents. I can deal with that.

The CPU A.I. is occasionally a bit baffling in the last two minutes (particularly regarding the use of defensive timeouts), and sometimes the safeties are too passive on pass plays, but otherwise, the gameplay is entirely stellar. It's a 90 game in 90 condition now.

Let me be clear about this. It's not just that the broken parts of the game have been fixed. It's that this game absolutely soars, in a way that I don't remember seeing since ESPN NFL2K5.

Yes, I thought Madden was a better game last year, but I still remember how blown away I was the first time I saw NFL2K5 in 480P on the Xbox. It was incredibly vibrant and totally breathtaking.

In 2010, so it is with Backbreaker.

How much fun have I been having? I stopped trying to score an early copy of Madden. I'm still doing a slider project, but it just didn't seem nearly as important after a few hours of playing Backbreaker post-patch.

This game is obviously competing in the same demographic space as Madden, but it's important to understand that it offers an entirely different experience, because the camera is so close that it offers a significantly more authentic experience than the "God cam" of other football games. In Backbreaker, even with the slightly elevated passing camera post-patch, you learn to read receivers as they pass in-between other players. You learn to study the defense with extreme scrutiny pre-snap, because you can't see everyone post-snap--players will be blocked by other players, and you can't see the whole field in one glance. On defense, you learn to identify and remember how many receivers are on each side of the field, and on what side the tight end is lining up. You can get away with not doing that particularly well in Madden, because with one glance during the play, you can see everything.

In Backbreaker, you can't really get away with anything. Not anymore, anyway.

It's really impossible for me to describe how dynamic the action feels. The animation is just so convincing, and seems so unscripted, that it feels almost entirely real. In one play last night, I played as a middle linebacker, then fought through three players for an eventual quarterback sack. It was a coverage sack, really, but it was a huge rush to watch the replay and see my player fighting through those blockers in an extremely realistic manner.

It's also a huge rush to see receivers stretching the ball out on their way to the ground in an attempt to get a first down. There are so many little moments like this, and they all combine to create a terrifically immersive experience.

This is also the first game I've ever seen that truly captures the brutality of professional football without turning it into a cartoon. Hits in this game will make you wince because they look so real.

There are many examples of how Backbreaker makes you experience football in a different way, but here's one excellent example. It's always said that on offense, the left tackle may be the most important player on the field, because he protects the quarterback's blindside.

In Madden or NCAA, that doesn't mean anything, because there IS no blindside. There's no camera where you can't see trouble coming.

In Backbreaker, there damn sure is a blindside, and you better watch out. A button was added in the patch that lets you glance to the side away from your primary receiver, but believe me, it can only help so much.

The defense means to harm you.

This is why, as I played in Road To Backbreaker Mode, that when I accumulated enough credits to buy a free agent, I didn't look at a better quarterback or a skill position player.

I looked, first, at left tackle.

Now, if you want to play the game, listen to this next section carefully. First, you need to do the tutorials. Don't even think about skipping them--the controls are extremely intuitive, but practice is definitely needed. On defense, it will take time for you to feel comfortable swinging the camera with the right stick when the ball goes past you. I'm doing it quite easily now, though, and you will be as well. On offense, it will take time to be comfortable switching receivers during a play. Again, though, that will come with a little practice, and it is a far more satisfying feeling to complete passes in this challenging environment.

In short, a sensational effort.

[whomario]

I agree that it´s very fun now, rented it for 2 days post-patch and loved it. Won´t buy it just yet because i also love playing NCAA right now and there´s no time for another console game right now. But i´ll definitely pick it up at some point, propably in november or sth when the weather starts sucking consistently ;)

The one thing that continues to bug me as that the game (on offense) feels slooooooow, mainly due to the very stiff animations (especially jukes are laughably stiff, but even running straight looks off) and the huge player models, but the QB play is extremely challenging (and rewarding) and playing defense is a blast.

And yeah, the tackling is really like a million times better than anything EA ever produced.

[Groundhog]

I picked this up yesterday thanks to a gift voucher, and man, I really struggle with the camera view, going to take some getting used to. I completed all the tutorials and then created a team and started a "career mode" (can't remember their term for it). First game, lost 33-0... And it really wasn't even that close. :D

I was surprised to find that on D I actually enjoyed controlling the CBs the most, which is something I never do in Madden. Biggest problem I have is focusing entirely on the WR lined up opposite me and not noticing that the QB in fact handed the ball off 4 seconds ago... :)

On offense I completely suck balls. By the 4th Q I was starting to get the hang of controlling the QB and switching between the WRs, but I'm still woeful at running and didn't manage more than 3 yards on any rush, though few of my runs ended in positive yardage.

All in all though, I got to say I dig the game's style. Once I adapt to the camera angle and controls I think I'll really enjoy it.

[WSR]

I picked this up last weekend, installed the NFL patch, and have been loving it all week. The animations, the "role" playing aspect of playing a certain player throughout the entire play (or game), the camera angle (yes, it does take some getting used to), all add to the experience IMHO.

It's not perfect, but it beats Madden 11 hands down for my money. I tried playing Madden 11 the other night, and found it unplayable. The animations and gameplay seem so contrived, it's not even close for me.

In all, I'm very happy with the purchase.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I picked this up last weekend, installed the NFL patch, and have been loving it all week. The animations, the "role" playing aspect of playing a certain player throughout the entire play (or game), the camera angle (yes, it does take some getting used to), all add to the experience IMHO.

It's not perfect, but it beats Madden 11 hands down for my money. I tried playing Madden 11 the other night, and found it unplayable. The animations and gameplay seem so contrived, it's not even close for me.

In all, I'm very happy with the purchase.

+1. It's a fantastic game now that they've made the necessary adjustments. Really glad they stuck with it.

[rjolley]

WSR: Tell me more about this NFL patch.

[WSR]

WSR: Tell me more about this NFL patch.

It's a patch that updates the uniforms, logos, etc. and the team rosters to mirror the NFL. The latest version if V15 (I believe). The main person behind this effort has his own website Backbreaker NFL 11 (http://www.bbhighlitesgs.com/) along with a Youtube video on how to transfer the files. (I'm playing the XBOX version, but I believe there is a version floating around for the PS3 as well.)

Here is a link to a Youtube video that shows the final product:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM40SkLf0Qg&feature=player_embedded

[SnowMan]

Dammit...now I may have to look into finding a way to afford this...

[stevew]

Hmm, I probably wasn't going to buy this, but the NFL patch might make me reconsider.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Dammit...now I may have to look into finding a way to afford this...

It's available for $20 if you look around a bit. Well worth it at that price.

[RendeR]

Still no PC version?

Still not interested.

[GrantDawg]

Still no PC version?

Still not interested.

This. A game like this would be awesome on the PC.

[SnowMan]

It's available for $20 if you look around a bit. Well worth it at that price.
Wow really, I'll have to start hunting, thanks.

[WSR]

I'm getting the hang of this game, and it is VERY satisfying.

I had my first punt return for a TD the other day, and I must have watched the replay a dozen times. Very cool.

I also had another experience on Defense where I blitzed the QB, and ended up tackling the RB for a loss right after the handoff. Another replay fest on that play.

It has its flaws, but it is much more immersive than Madden IMHO.

[MJ4H]

Can you put the replays in this thread? I'm interested. Don't know if it's possible.

[WSR]

Can you put the replays in this thread? I'm interested. Don't know if it's possible.

I wouldn't know how to do it if it's possible.

[aran]

How do you know that the game has updated? I bought the game and loaded it up in an xbox 360 connected to the internet and something was updated before the game started, but I don't know if it was the 360 or the game itself...

[Groundhog]

Was probably the game. The update should happen automatically IIRC, however it's been awhile since I had a 360.

[whomario]

How do you know that the game has updated? I bought the game and loaded it up in an xbox 360 connected to the internet and something was updated before the game started, but I don't know if it was the 360 or the game itself...

still haven´t gotten around to buying it myself, but i am pretty sure that with the patch the main menu or the start-up-screen should say "Greathouse" somewhere (name of the patch)

Long a thing that annoyed me with other games, not showing me what version you are on and if the update worked. Can´t be that hard to display it somewhere at the bottom or top of the screen ...

[rjolley]

Mine says Greathouse #3 when booting, if I remember correctly.

[MJ4H]

So now that I have a PS3 and this game is really cheap, I am definitely going to buy it. I read this thread and didn't see anything about a sequel, but I remember hearing that maybe they abandoned the idea. What's the deal there?

Also is there anywhere I can get the NFL patch for PS3?

Thanks.

[Matthean]

Looks like there is a "sequel" in what looks to be a tackling game.

backbreaker vengeance (http://www.505games.co.uk/backbreakervengeance/)

[MJ4H]

Bought this today and played through the training camp and an exhibition game. Easily, and I mean easily, the most fun I've ever had playing a console football game.

[MJ4H]

After playing this for awhile, I'm pretty frustrated with how difficult it is to run the ball. I just can't seem to ever do it. If I'm not getting hit literally as soon as I take the hand-off, I'm trying to break towards a hole and missing it every single time.

Am I the only one that sucks at running the ball in this game, or is this a common complaint?