Ashes Cricket '09 Review - 8/10
With the taste of defeat still fresh in many Australian’s minds, Codemasters now offers us “Ashes Cricket ‘09”, and the opportunity to change the outcome of the series, albeit in a video game. Ashes Cricket ’09 (AC09), the sequel to Codemasters popular game “Ricky Ponting International Cricket 2007”, makes its debut on the PS3 this year. With new gameplay dynamics, more impressive graphics and commentary from Cricketing greats Jonathan Agnew, Tony Greig, Ian Bishop, Shane Warne and Sir Ian Botham, Ashes Cricket ’09 looks like a welcomed addition to the Codemasters Cricket Franchise, and to any Cricket fans game collection.
Graphics
Being a Cricket game, I had my suspicions that AC09 would be a “Gameplay over graphics” compromise. But that simply isn’t the case. Whilst there are better looking sports games out there, I was surprised to see that a game with a relatively low budget, could look as good as it does. Player likenesses are also something to be admired, particularly that of the Australian and English players (The only 2 officially licensed teams in the game). Another thing you will quickly notice is that Codemasters have cut a few corners, particularly in the presentation of the crowd. To put it bluntly, the spectator’s character models would look bad in a PS1 game. Although I’m guessing crowd realism isn’t the reason anyone would be interested in buying the game, it’s definitely an area in need of some major improvement. The Stadiums Grounds, Pitch and the Stadium itself have all been modeled off their real life counterparts, with some visible similarities. Matches can be played at various times in the day, with various weather conditions, producing visible lighting changes, but there’s nothing here that will blow you away.
Gameplay
Gameplay is easily AC09’s strongest point. Codemasters have delivered a game that will not only please Cricketing fans, but also those not too keen on the sport. One area in need of improvement is the games difficulty, it’s simply too easy. Whilst there are 3 difficulty settings, I never had any trouble picking up wickets or scoring runs, even whilst playing on the hardest difficulty. The game is also quite forgiving, and will often hand you a wicket or two, or some easy runs depending on how you are progressing. Batting is the easiest, and most enjoyable part of the game. The player can select a front foot shot with L1, a back foot shot with L2 and can hold L1 and L2 to charge down the pitch. Shot direction is chosen with the left analogue stick, and shot type (Defensive, Attacking or Lofted) is chosen with Square, X and Circle. The only real challenge here is the shot timing, but you’ll pick up on it pretty quickly. Bowling goes by a similar method. Ball length and width is applied with the left analogue stick and ball type is selected with the face buttons. The player can also bowl an additional selection of deliveries (Cutters, balls with reverse swing) by tapping L1 or R1. AC09 also offers an extensive range of player customization, changeable match setting and Cricketing venues (Strangely, the WACA doesn’t make an appearance). Alongside the Ashes, AC09 offers ODI’s, 20 / 20 games and Test matches. Although I was slightly disappointed to see there were no changes to the gameplay in the other modes (More aggressive fielding in 20 / 20 games etc). Extensive Batting, Bowling and Fielding tutorials & challenges are also on offer, alongside the games support for up to 4 players locally, and 2 players online, Codemasters have included enough to keep any Cricket fan happy.
Oh, and yes, it has trophies.
Sound
AC09 is presented a lot like a real televised game of Cricket. Thus commentary is provided from Cricketing greats Shane Warne, Sir Ian Botham, Jonathan Agnew, Tony Greig and Ian Bishop. The commentary is unfortunately far too limited, and you will be hearing the same phrases and comments far too often. Although I found the repetitions to be more amusing than annoying. A quick rundown of the weather and pitch conditions is given at the start of the match, to help you in your decision at the coin toss (If you win!). Annoyingly, the commentators will often contradict themselves. For instance, stating that the pitch is a Batsman’s paradise before the coin toss, then afterwards, saying it’s a bowler’s delight. Again, I didn’t find this to be much of an annoyance. AC09 offers no real in game music, so the sound of a well timed shot will have to keep your ears satisfied!
Final Verdict
Not a lot more can be said about the game, it is quite a basic game at heart. The fun factor is definitely there, especially if you’re a Cricket fan (Eager for some revenge against the Brits!). The game certainly offers enough to satisfy most, with the Ashes Series itself, ODI’s, 20 / 20’s and Test matches, on top of online and local multiplayer you won’t be left disappointed. So what are you waiting for? Go don the Baggy Green and experience the closest thing to a real game of Cricket, without leaving your living room.
Graphics: 8
Gameplay: 9
Sound: 7
Multiplayer: 9
Lasting Appeal: 8
Final Score: 8 / 10
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