Fantastic fun, great for Rugby League fans.
One of my first complaints about the original was the really messy gameplay, and it has certainly come along way:- it now really does feel like Rugby League.
It's definetly not perfect though, some of the old flaws still can be seen.
Perhaps the biggest inclusion is the Franchise mode, allowing you to manage your team's finances, stadium, player buying/selling/contracts, rep selection and statistics, all which spands for 10 seasons for either the NRL or ESL.
Another huge improvement is the graphics engine, where player likeness has been improved by 110%.
For fanatics, highlights videos and state of origin specials can be unlocked by completing various objectives.
Pros
================
*Franchise mode allows for a whole new dimension in the way the game is played
*Great statistics, allowing for player v player comparison
*Player likeness is astounding
*Unlockable videos
*A wide variety of international teams available
*Music & sounds
Cons
================
*Flaws with the gameplay engine still exist - eg, wingers sometimes stand in the dead ball zone
*AI attack needs definite improvement
*Cinematics after every event get annoying, especially since they take a while to load
*Commentary still needs work
*Unresponsive and long loading menus
Overall, a big improvement on the first, and if your a Rugby League fan, this is an absolute MUST. It still isn't perfect however, with more than a few flaws in the gameplay engine which let it down. Also the loading and unresponsiveness of simple menus is bizzare at times. Also the AI attack needs alot of work, it's just really annoying.
Very good, but needs more work in areas.