Sounds great!

Full info at:

http://wii.ign.com/articles/801/801326p1.html

So what is Family Play? Quite simply, it's an optional mode incorporated into EA sports titles that takes the nunchuk controller out of play, making it easy for non-gamers to get into the action utilizing intuitive motions and AI-controlled characters. Think of it as "highlight reel mode" for gamers. Instead of worrying about maneuvering players or taking on more complex gamer actions, it's all about using the Wii-mote for gesture-only control. With the computer taking over all character movement and play orchestration, it's simply up to you to make the big plays happen. Family Play can be incorporated at any time during play by taking the nunchuk controller out, and is seamlessly integrated into Madden, FIFA, and NBA Live. Want to play against your younger brother in Madden? Just switch him over to Family Play and keep your advanced controls in tact. Once he gets a feel for the gesture control, plug in the nunchuk and let him have total control over the game. It's seamless, easy, and intuitive.

Honestly to me this is super cool because I find some of these sports games so complex I'd rather just rent them and play in the family mode for myself. Also it's easier for my kids to learn to play too, so that's really cool. I hope we see more of this kind of approach, it can never hurt to give us more ways of playing a game. I love that some of the fighters are supporting Wiimote/GC/classic controllers too. You just can't go wrong with that.

That's a really cool way to let anyone play this game. Nice job EA.

nice! now you can choose the hardcore(boring) part of sports games or the fun(casual) part!

What's next? Making simulation parts more streamlined? Bah!

Actually, that wouldn't be bad. Taking those out are what make Mario's sports games fun for a lot of people.

 One thing the EA sports games have always done well is make new control schemes (sometimes good, sometimes bad).  I'm not surprised they're so openly embracing the Wii since it just does so well with their loving to play with control schemes.

What's next? Game that plays for you?

Sarcasm aside. I think EA is doing a great job here. More control options is always better. As an example. Many DS games I totally skipped because they forced me to use the stylus for simple stuff that can easily be done with the D-Pad.

Galaki, I take it you never played FFXII.

This looks really cool actually, as long as the complex controls remain intact and see the same attention to detail. How many newbies really get into these complex sports titles anymore and really try to figure out what every button and analog stick flick actually does in game? I barely figured out how to play Madden '07 on Wii and that was pretty simple compared to the dual-analog setups.

Anyway here's the official press release from EA for those interested:

EA INTRODUCES A NEW WAY TO PLAY -- EA SPORTS FAMILY PLAY -- ON THE WII IN MADDEN NFL 08, NBA LIVE 08 AND FIFA 08
EA SPORTS Family Play Simplifies Controls to Enable Fans of All Ages and Skill Levels to Play Together


CHERTSEY, UK. – July 5, 2007 – Watch out sports fans, the playing field has been leveled! Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) has made it easier for players of all ages and skill levels to play its most popular EA SPORTS™ games on the Wii™ through the all-new EA SPORTS™ Family Play style of gameplay. Debuting in the Wii versions of Madden NFL 08, NBA LIVE 08 and FIFA 08, EA SPORTS Family Play is a new way to play that enables players of all abilities to play with their friends and family without a competitive disadvantage. Advanced controls are also available for more experienced players, providing two compelling ways to play, and ensuring everyone can enjoy playing EA SPORTS games on the Wii together.

In the main game of Madden NFL 08, NBA LIVE 08 and FIFA 08, players have the choice to play the style that best suits their skills. When entering a contest, players now have the option to choose Advanced or Family Play. Once in the game, Advanced users take complete control of all aspects of the gameplay through intuitive Wii gestures using both the Nunchuk and Wii remote. EA SPORTS Family Play offers a simplified control system using just the Wii remote that enables novice players to focus on having fun while the console does the rest. With the Wii remote in hand, players control key actions – such as shooting, passing, snapping, and throwing – while the console controls the rest. It’s like having an invisible helper on your team. Plus, as novice players gain confidence in their ability they can gradually begin to use Advanced controls simply by plugging in the Nunchuk. It’s that easy.

“EA SPORTS Family Play on the Wii creates an incredibly accessible and user-friendly experience that the whole family will enjoy,” said Dave McCarthy, Executive Producer for the three games developed at EA Canada. “While many fans love to control every piece of the action, novice players can have just as much fun jumping in to throw a touchdown pass, nail a three pointer or take a shot on goal. Family Play brings together fans of all ages to enjoy playing EA SPORTS games, and even let’s them ease in to Advanced play if they desire.”


The following three EA SPORTS games feature EA SPORTS Family Play:

Madden NFL 08 on the Wii
Anyone can play like a pro in Madden NFL 08, whether a new user or a long time fan. Play with only the Wii remote with EA SPORTS Family Play or use the Wii remote and nunchuck for more advanced controls; the decision is yours. Featuring an all-new Party Mode, play trivia or chose from 22 different mini-games. Break down plays and highlight key moments with all-new Madden NFL 08 telestrator. Bring the game online, play head to head with friends and keep up to date with the live sports ticker for the ultimate online experience.

NBA LIVE 08 on the Wii
When the game is on the line and the ball is in your hands, what will you do? Will you penetrate the lane and rise above the rim for a monster slam, or find an opening around the perimeter and sink the game-winning basket? Jump in on the NBA action with EA SPORTS Family Play that gives every user the opportunity to enjoy success in NBA LIVE 08. You control your team’s shooting, passing, and steals on defense with the Wii remote, and leave the rest up to the AI. If you’re already a pro, use both the Wii remote and nunchuck for more advanced controls.

FIFA 08 on the Wii
The whole family can play FIFA 08 with a flick of the wrist. Play the traditional and authentic way or in a new party mode called Footii Party with Ronaldinho where you can play Juggling, Table Soccer or Boot It with your own Mii characters to unlock a customized Ronaldinho character to take on the champ. The in-game Soccer Academy makes it easy to learn the basic and FreeMotion™ advanced controls in more than 30 interactive tutorials, or let the game give you an assist with EA SPORTS Family Play. EA’s award-winning Interactive Leagues online play is also featured.

EA SPORTS™ is the leading interactive sports software brand in the world, with top-selling titles and franchises including Madden NFL Football, FIFA, NHL® Hockey, NBA LIVE basketball, NCAA® Football, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR®, NCAA® March Madness® and NASCAR® racing. For more information about EA SPORTS, including newsletters, podcasts, and fantasy football action please visit www.easports.com. Press can download assets at www.electronicarts.co.uk/press.