Both players have the capability to choose any of the on field players. The camera dynamically shifts to provide a unique perspective depending on position, something that's drastically different than the local co-op mode. While it's nice that we have independent cameras, the cameras themselves can be a bit frustrating. The quarterback camera for instance sits a bit low to the field and it makes it difficult to judge spacial distances of players. Basically I get picked off more than Brett Favre. That's not to say other cameras don't work, playing as a running back or wide receiver generally gives you a good view of the play and it won't be long before you yell "X X X HIT X X - I'M OPEN." Yes, communication is key in Madden NFL 2010's co-op mode, just like real football. Sure your friend might call you Keyshawn "Just get me the damn ball" Johnson, but hey! You just want to win the game.
The co-op mode is a good start, but it's no where near where it could and should be. When other EA Sports titles like NHL and FIFA offer full online franchises with players cooperating on the same team, Madden NFL 10's single game co-op just isn't up to snuff. Not only that, we found it incredibly difficult - even after a dozen or so games. The cameras are a nice touch, and there's some definite tweaks in the way the game handles co-op, but we'd like to see more. Full seasons, Four or more players, player progression, player locking, swapping of play calling, or maybe even a system to vote on the play would all be nice to haves. We're glad to see EA Sports start to tread down a more solid co-op experience path, this year's is more of a field goal though, rather than a touchdown.
Verdict
Co-Op Score
The Co-Op Experience: Play online with a friend against the PC in single games of NFL football. Each player has their own unique camera angle.Offline co-op plays like traditional Madden.
Co-Optimus game reviews focus on the cooperative experience of a game, our final score graphic represents this experience along with an average score for the game overall. For an explanation of our scores please check our Review Score Explanation Guide.