EA Sport "NFL HEAD COACH"

[Darkiller]

I was checking for updates on the game, and saw that the forum is quite active and had this latest info which sounds absolutely amazing...
wanted to share that.

Just got the new issue of gamepro and it has a preview for it. First things first the target release date is April but no specific day. You will be able to use voice activated game play controls using your headset to call plays and communicate with your coordinaters. Says you can call other teams on draft day to set up deals, review scouting reports make key selections while watching draft in real time on espn nfl live. You can interview for jobs build your own team select your staff. To quote the preview " NFL Head Coach sets you into immersive 3d enviroments like the office, practice field, and the stadium, while letting you make all the decisions. From setting practice schedules to scouting players and hiring and firing assistant coaches nothing happens without your say so" It also has four new screen shots of a coach on the practice field, in the office, what looks to be a play calling screen, and a coach info screen. From reading this seems like this could really be good. I havent looked at the website yet so I dont know if its on there yet but its gamepro. com

Portis Moss and Taylor Return Home REDSKINS going to MIAMI for SBXL1!!

Message was edited by:
redskinjss (EA.com)

http://forums.ea.com/mboards/thread....threadID=52561

[MizzouRah]

I have the Gamepro issue and the game looks kind of corny to me.

[Emiliano]

I'm really curious to see how this game turns out. The last screen I saw was the one with "add a play with Deion as a wide receiver", and that WASN'T very promising...

[Cringer]

Originally Posted by MizzouRah

I have the Gamepro issue and the game looks kind of corny to me.

In what way? Just the screen shots look dumb or what?

[IwasHere]

I thought the release date was June?

[Cringer]

Originally Posted by IwasHere

I thought the release date was June?

Maybe they decided career mode would end after 3 seasons, so they can now cut back on their work load and put it out earlier.

[Deattribution]

Doesn't EA sponsor the NFL Draft pretty heavily? I know there were an insane amount of Madden commecerials last year, so maybe they want to pump it out in time for the draft crowd.

[Icy]

I have no doubt that the GM part will be fun as it is in Total Football Manager (EA's soccer GM game) but i really hope that the match engine won't be as bad and unrealistic as it would kill the game for me as it did for the soccer GM game, where you can see tons of stupid bugs that kill any kind of realism. If it's as bad, be ready for touchdowns being credited for 10 points or 1000 yards ran by your linebacker.

[Cringer]

Originally Posted by Icy

I have no doubt that the GM part will be fun as it is in Total Football Manager (EA's soccer GM game) but i really hope that the match engine won't be as bad and unrealistic as it would kill the game for me as it did for the soccer GM game, where you can see tons of stupid bugs that kill any kind of realism. If it's as bad, be ready for touchdowns being credited for 10 points or 1000 yards ran by your linebacker.

Well, I noticed yesterday NFL Europe now gives 4 points for FGs over 50 yards, maybe it will be Maximum customizable.

[Icy]

Originally Posted by Cringer

Well, I noticed yesterday NFL Europe now gives 4 points for FGs over 50 yards, maybe it will be Maximum customizable.

Yes but then you will custm set the FG to 4 points and they will be credited a random number from 1 to 100.

[Cringer]

Originally Posted by Icy

Yes but then you will custm set the FG to 4 points and they will be credited a random number from 1 to 100.

So did a goal from 30 yards get you 3 points in Total Football Manager? I might be game for that.

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Cringer

In what way? Just the screen shots look dumb or what?

Yeah actually. Just looks kind of goofy, but since it's EA, it's getting hyped. The kids down the street have my magazine now, but when I saw it, I was like ho-hum about it.

[SegRat]

Steelers | Cowher on the cover for new EA game
Tue, 28 Mar 2006 13:41:13 -0800

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Bill Cowher will be on the cover for Electronic Arts' new video game, NFL Head Coach. The game will challenge the hands-on gamer to build and manage every aspect of a football team from the ground up. Cowher said, "With NFL Head Coach there is finally a game that gives true football fans the chance to strategize and become the head coach of their favorite team. Coaching is about leadership and everyone will now see how difficult, but also how rewarding coaching can be." The game is scheduled to arrive in stores June 20.

[IwasHere]

I am guessing with EA's NFL license you will have a bunch of choir boys playing for your team.

[stevew]

Oh shit, there better not be a "NFL Head Coach" cover jinx

[TazFTW]

Some new pics.

http://media.sports.ign.com/articles...53/imgs_1.html

[SFL Cat]

Originally Posted by Cringer

Well, I noticed yesterday NFL Europe now gives 4 points for FGs over 50 yards, maybe it will be Maximum customizable.

That has always been the case in NFL Europe. Since soccer was so big over there, it was the NFL's way of "pumping up" the importance of the kicking game.

[SFL Cat]

Originally Posted by IwasHere

I thought the release date was June?

I think they moved the release date up to capitalize on all the great hype generated by Daivd's game.

[Young Drachma]

Originally Posted by SFL Cat

That has always been the case in NFL Europe. Since soccer was so big over there, it was the NFL's way of "pumping up" the importance of the kicking game.

Then hell, why not for a 40+. I mean, how often do you kick a 50+ FG anyway?

[Mustang]

Originally Posted by stevew

Oh shit, there better not be a "NFL Head Coach" cover jinx

Good god.. Cowher was on the cover of Total Control Football too...

*shudder*

[sooner333]

Do teams ever down by 4 with time running out ever try to kneel behind the 37 to set up for the game tying FG instead of maybe going for a drive that is 3rd down at the 30?

[SackAttack]

Originally Posted by SFL Cat

That has always been the case in NFL Europe. Since soccer was so big over there, it was the NFL's way of "pumping up" the importance of the kicking game.

There's an idea.

Field goals inside the 10 yard line = illegal.

From 10-19 yard line, 1 point.

20-29 yard line, 2 points.

30-39 yard line, 3 points.

40+ yard line, 4 points.

(At least then I wouldn't get field goals on 4th-and-1 from the 1 yard line anymore in FOF.)

[Groundhog]

Originally Posted by SackAttack

There's an idea.

Field goals inside the 10 yard line = illegal.

From 10-19 yard line, 1 point.

20-29 yard line, 2 points.

30-39 yard line, 3 points.

40+ yard line, 4 points.

(At least then I wouldn't get field goals on 4th-and-1 from the 1 yard line anymore in FOF.)

Do you really want to turn the NFL in to a kick fest? If it aint broke...

Banning FGs within the 10 yard line is silly, too. You shouldn't be penalised for making it over the 10 yard line, as opposed to being stopped at the 11.

[ahbrady]

Originally Posted by SackAttack

There's an idea.

Field goals inside the 10 yard line = illegal.

They don't have to be. That's what makes Maximum Football so great. You can have a line of scrimmage past the end zone if you want. Maximum Football is king!

[EagleFan]

Originally Posted by sooner333

Do teams ever down by 4 with time running out ever try to kneel behind the 37 to set up for the game tying FG instead of maybe going for a drive that is 3rd down at the 30?

Or have the holder line up about 15 yards behind the line of scrimmage and pray for a good snap.

[Ragone]

Originally Posted by SackAttack

There's an idea.

Field goals inside the 10 yard line = illegal.

From 10-19 yard line, 1 point.

20-29 yard line, 2 points.

30-39 yard line, 3 points.

40+ yard line, 4 points.

(At least then I wouldn't get field goals on 4th-and-1 from the 1 yard line anymore in FOF.)

alls this would do is make teams commit penalties to get back into the 30-39 range.. "Hey willie.. false start twice so we can kick the 3 pointer"

[Darkiller]

ok, at least there is a formal release date now (June 20th).
looking forward to it...(always exicted about new football games...often disapointed with them)

in the end, as it is always the case, only FOF will prevail....

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm cautiously optimistic. Maybe this will end up being a fun graphical football management game.

[MizzouRah]

Hmmm... definitly something to keep an eye on. I really wish FOF had a graphical add on like those screen shots... I'd never shower, my wife could put food under the door, and once in awhile I would come out to use the restroom and my kids would say, "Is that daddy or a caveman?"

[Bee]

The June 20 release date seems kind of strange to me. I wonder if it will be delayed to coincide more with the football season.

[ice4277]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

I'm cautiously optimistic. Maybe this will end up being a fun graphical football management game.

Ditto. Whenever I get excited about an upcoming EA release, it never fails to disappoint. Hopefully this will be different.

[moriarty]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

I'm cautiously optimistic. Maybe this will end up being a fun graphical football management game.

I haven't felt this way since the Movies release date was announced.

[Hurst2112]

is it just me or does the cowher pic look:

A) air brushed...similar to playboy photos
B) rendered, not a real pic
C) like an imposter. Some dude named Bob Schmaltz who just happens to look like bill

[muns]

Originally Posted by Hurst2112

is it just me or does the cowher pic look:

A) air brushed...similar to playboy photos
B) rendered, not a real pic
C) like an imposter. Some dude named Bob Schmaltz who just happens to look like bill

A. Hell yes
B. No Doubt about it
C. Thanks for the Laugh

[jaygr]

Originally Posted by Hurst2112

is it just me or does the cowher pic look:

A) air brushed...similar to playboy photos
B) rendered, not a real pic
C) like an imposter. Some dude named Bob Schmaltz who just happens to look like bill

It does seem very off to me for some reason. I am trying to think back to when he had a goatee trimmed like that- espically how stylized it is on the jaw line and all.

[ice4277]

Marketing/promotional materials edited and/or airbrushed? Shocking!

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by ice4277

Marketing/promotional materials edited and/or airbrushed? Shocking!

Kind of like their screen shots of up and coming games?

[Flasch186]

Originally Posted by moriarty

I haven't felt this way since the Movies release date was announced.

lets hope that this is better than that monstrosity

[johneh]

Originally Posted by SFL Cat

I think they moved the release date up to capitalize on all the great hype generated by Daivd's game.

LMAO!

[WVUFAN]

Originally Posted by Flasch186

lets hope that this is better than that monstrosity

You didn't like The Movies? I've heard good things about it and was gonna pick it up. What didn't you like? (I ask not to be sarcastic) I don't wanna buy it if it's not good quality.

[Flasch186]

Originally Posted by WVUFAN

You didn't like The Movies? I've heard good things about it and was gonna pick it up. What didn't you like? (I ask not to be sarcastic) I don't wanna buy it if it's not good quality.

it just seemed to monotonous, micro-managed some aspects, not enough detail in others...it just wasnt for me, thats all. Ive heard and read that most people fall into the 2 camps of hating it or loving it, im just in the one.

[GrantDawg]

Originally Posted by Flasch186

it just seemed to monotonous, micro-managed some aspects, not enough detail in others...it just wasnt for me, thats all. Ive heard and read that most people fall into the 2 camps of hating it or loving it, im just in the one.

Hated it too. Very disappointing.

[moriarty]

Originally Posted by WVUFAN

You didn't like The Movies? I've heard good things about it and was gonna pick it up. What didn't you like? (I ask not to be sarcastic) I don't wanna buy it if it's not good quality.

Just ask ANYONE on this board or elsewhere if they played it for more than a week. There was a movies thread once upon a time (it quickly died) here if you want to check it out. EDIT - here's the link: http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/...ghlight=MOVIES
The most telling thing is that the thread died only two weeks after the game's release.

[kcchief19]

I doubt they'll want to push that June 20 date back since I don't think they want to release this and Madden at the same time. I thought the original April date was innovative to tie-in with the draft, but I can see it not being a great idea. Getting it in stores by the end of June will help tie it in with the start of training camps.

My optimism is wanning. It's starting to look more and more to me like a play-calling version of Madden with some limited RPG elements, like do you want to put plays in for Deion at wide receiver or do you want to get into a bar fight with the designer of the game.

[moriarty]

Originally Posted by kcchief19

I doubt they'll want to push that June 20 date back since I don't think they want to release this and Madden at the same time. I thought the original April date was innovative to tie-in with the draft, but I can see it not being a great idea. Getting it in stores by the end of June will help tie it in with the start of training camps.

My optimism is wanning. It's starting to look more and more to me like a play-calling version of Madden with some limited RPG elements, like do you want to put plays in for Deion at wide receiver or do you want to get into a bar fight with the designer of the game.

Don't forget the kewl customized crib, where you get to decorate your office.

[Ajaxab]

I'm not purchasing this game until I see a beer tent.

[kentontrace]

I'm looking forward to this game - I just hope they do it right and it gets a bigger base of people to get into sports sims - its always fun to get new competition

[Eaglesfan27]

Saw this preview on Gamespot and my cautious optimism grows a bit more. I like the idea of dynamic ratings and of course, I've always wanted a great coach mode for Madden in which I could call plays and get realistic results. Maybe this will deliver. Here is the preview:

NFL Head Coach First Look


We stalk the sidelines in our hands-on look at EA's NFL strategy sim.
All off-field activities in Head Coach are calendar-based; you usually have three or four activities to attend to per calendar day. Your morning might be spent going over e-mails and fielding phone calls, while later in the day you'll head to a staff meeting with your coaches, head back to your desk for a meeting with your scouting coach, and then end the day looking at your salary cap numbers and figuring out just how you're going to find the cash to pay for that upcoming first-round draft pick. As the free-agent signing period begins, you'll want to make sure you have your eye on who's available to sign to fill holes in your roster, and, of course, you'll want to make sure you're always up on the latest scouting reports in preparation for the draft. Weekly meetings with your scouting coach help things here, as do handy search filters that let you search among draft players along criteria such as position and skill level.

The NFL Draft itself gives you a seat in your own personal war room as you watch draft picks fly off the board. You can choose to run the draft in an approximation of real time (each CPU-controlled team has 30 seconds to make a pick, while you have a full five minutes), or you can choose to skip directly to your next pick. ESPN's Mel Kiper is also on hand to run down the top draft picks and provide analysis of each and every pick you make. If he doesn't like your pick, you'll know about it.
As the regular season approaches and your roster begins to settle down, you can run your players through a series of practice drills, which are designed not only to help your players improve, but also to give you a better picture of their abilities. Unlike in Madden, player ratings are dynamic in NFL Head Coach, and any particular player has a range in which he can perform. The overall attribute of a volatile player, such as Michael Vick, for example, might fluctuate from the low 70s on a bad day to the mid-90s on a day when everything is going his way. It's an interesting concept that takes into consideration each player's potential for greatness, as well as failure.

As you can tell, there is a lot to do in Head Coach's off-season, but that's only part of the equation. After all, preparation wins games, but you still have to play things out on the field. When coaching a game in Head Coach, you'll be watching the game as you might a regular game of Madden, with some crucial differences. One of the biggest changes is the available camera angles. We counted six available cameras in the game (though that number may change in the final build)--from traditional behind-the-QB looks, to sideline cameras (complete with your coaching avatar roaming up and down the sidelines), to our personal favorite, a high-vantage-point, top-down look at the field, showing the offensive and defensive formations with perfect clarity.

Perhaps it goes without saying, but in Head Coach, you're responsible for calling the plays (which you can do with either standard controls or via voice commands using a headset) and snapping the ball. Once the play begins, the game is more or less out of your hands. Before the ball is snapped, however, you can do things like call audibles and change protection coverage, but you'll have only a small window of time to make that happen (that is, before the play clock runs down or your opponent snaps the ball). However, your responsibilities in-game go a bit deeper than simply calling the play and watching how things unfold on the grass. At any point in the game, you can choose to talk to the players on the sideline to provide either strategic advice or specific motivation (and by "motivation" we mean a good dressing down). The amount of depth here is impressive--if you choose to talk to your quarterbacks, for example, you can choose to talk to either the entire group or to one particular QB. From there you can choose specific areas of focus to discuss, such as pass height, patience in the pocket, whether to focus on the number one receiver or spread the ball around, and so on--you can even tell your QB to take your advice to heart for the next play, the next drive, or the rest of the game.

This kind of coaching depth is available for every position on the field and will ensure that you will be very busy on the sidelines. Even better, as you hold these impromptu coaching sessions, your assistant coaches will take over play calling and the game will continue progressing. You can then choose to take back the reins at any time. Another factor weighs into the mix here: trust. How much your players trust you will determine how willing they are to follow your orders and how positively (or negatively) they respond to your motivation.

In practice, we found that the amount of time split between calling plays and coaching players on the sideline was about 70/30--depending on the results we were getting on the field. If our team was blowing it, of course, we spent a good deal more time trying to coax good performances out of them; if we had the game well in hand, it was simply a matter of calling smart plays and winding the clock down.

Head Coach will feature only one difficulty level, pitting your strategic football mind against the artificial intelligence or against a buddy online. The game will have some interaction with the next version of Madden, mainly by letting you export your current Head Coach team into Madden; certainly it would be nice to see more synergy between the two games, but perhaps that's an issue best left for future iterations of Head Coach.
By blending the in-depth details of traditional management sims with the familiar look of the Madden game engine, EA Sports is looking to craft NFL Head Coach into a management sim that is quite a bit different from the stat- and text-intensive Championship Managers of the world. The real challenge will be in delivering a game that is approachable enough for folks who have perhaps outgrown the "twitchier" aspects of Madden, while still providing NFL fanatics with an interesting--and, more importantly, authentic--twist to their favorite sport. Head Coach is due for release in June 2006.

[DaddyTorgo]

i'm hoping that it will deliver but i will want to play demos/see tons more reviews from people i trust (ideally on here). i definately have outgrown the joystick-jockiness of madden and am ready for something more in the graphical family. and this is definately an interesting twist.

[Chubby]

what system is this for? pc/360/ps2?