I don't understand why people are seemingly so happy with Rugby 06. After all, it is basically Rugby 04 with new graphics, and some slapdash extra features (like quick lineouts and quick taps).
Very true. Most important imo:
1. Realistic physics model. Momentum helping to break tackles but make it harder to change direction. Random ball bounce, etc. This would obviously lead to much more realistic play and allow for great running rugby. It'd also stop players from doing super kick after super kick. It is too easy to nail one 22 to 22 and dominate field position. It would also see an improvement in the ruck system.
2. AI. It is very lazy that the developers let the AI chase the ball instead of holding a defensive or attacking line. When the AI chases the ball on defense it opens up gaps out wide for the player. Often the AI will leave a wing standing near the sideline doing nothing, creating an unbelievably stupid overlap.
The AI doesn't think when it offloads in a tackle, often there is a player open on the other side yet the AI will pass to the defended side for an interception.
The AI often has the flyhalf kick or pass for a whole half. Ie he may kick for the first half and run it in the second half. When in 'kick' mode they'll only run it if you are spread thin. The AI is turning over possession, often when in decent field position. The AI will also kick away possession when behind in the second half. Stupid.
3. Rucks. Not just lacking momentum, but the 'rules' for possession in rucks are annoying. Find yourself isolated and you automatically lose possession? Fine, but it is ridiculous to have a player make a 10m break with support not too far behind but you automatically lose possession. It's silly that we can only keep possession in these situations when we have a high 'momentum' level.
4. Proper career modes. World league? We should have those options for all the major tournaments.
I would place AI as the most important. I can live with the rucking system and animation system (instead of proper physics) but the AI is what really ruins the fun. If the AI could just hold a proper defensive line whether the AI is defending or controlling the players defense (which is awful) then the game would present a much better challenge.
Other improvements should be sliders to adjust gameplay like madden, an improved line out system, custom set plays, proper rolling mauls, proper franchise mode.
I would guess the only improvement we will see in the next version will be franchise for s14 etc, unless they have decided to use a new engine (don't hold your breath). Madden-like rugby, we can only dream <_<
