NFL 2010 – American Football in Your Pocket
Gameloft is known for its Appstore game development. Just check it’s credits; Hero of Sparta, Let’s Golf, Brothers In Arms, the list goes on and on. You can add NFL 2010 to that list as well. The best football game in the appstore has its issues but is still the best football experience money can buy from the appstore. Ready! Blue 32! Hut! HUT!
Initially, the thing that hits me is NFL 2010 is liscenced. Other than Madden for the consoles, the only licensed football game is this one. Its not just a little benefit. Being able to play with your favorite stars on your favorite team in their actual stadium is straight up awesome. However, that will only go so far if the gameplay isnt fun. But it is. And there is a lot of it to be had. From its three game modes to the quickplay mode, NFL 2010 scratches the football itch.
The Gameplay is solid. Using an on-screen joystick and a couple of buttons you can control your player well. On offense, when you run, the game enters bullet time when someone is about to tackle you so you can size up your options. This works wonderfully, though it will take some time to get used to it. The same mechanic happens on defense when you play the line. This gameplay slow down is critical and well-appreciated.The playbooks are also well-designed and somewhat large. You are presented with a basic playbook and an advanced playbook. Basic playbook will have you choose plays based on the type it is: Outside run, Long pass etc. Advanced playbook will allow you to choose plays based on formation. Giving us two playbooks allows advanced football players flexibility in their play calling but keeps the casual fans in the action.
Presentation-wise, NFL 2010 looks good. Most people’s football video game eye is spoiled by Madden, which is a preposterous thing to compare. NFL 2010, given the iphone’s power, brings top-level design and presentation. The music in the game is good but currently doesnt allow you to play your own playlists. One Issue is during play selection, why cant I tap the picture to select it? The only way to select what you want is to hit a small red arrow? Just let me tap the picture itself. Also, tapping the receiver to pass to could be a little smoother.
Coming in future updates are improvements to the season-mode that will allow you to trade players and hosts of other features. All in all, NFL 2010 is the definitive football experience in the appstore and any self-proclaimed football fan with an idevice should check this game out. Currently available for $4.99 (USD) in the Appstore.
