Cool. What's it like as a game then?
The graphics are great for a start, the players are realistic and smoothly jointed and actually get dirtier during play (obviously depending on how much they get 'stuck in' during the match) and, of course, it's all lovingly motion-captured using some of the top rugby stars of today.

They might look like the players but do they play like 'em?
They should do. EA have enlisted the help of PA Sport (part of the Press Association) for the latest stats on players, so they've got relative abilities based on their size, ability, strength and 'star quality'.

And who's doing the commentary?
Mr Rugby himself, Bill McLaren, aided and abetted by former England and New Zealand centre Jamie Salmon. Also lending a hand is England World Cup Coach Clive Woodward, who's helped out with the management and gameplay strategies.

Anything extra?
EA have borrowed some of the ball physics technology they developed for their Cricket World Cup 99 game (trademarked Tru-Spin, no less) so there should be plenty of chance for 'favourable bounces' and the like. Also, the designers have put a lot of store in their players' physics technology, whereby, for example, inertia, speed and weight have a significant and realistic impact during tackles and when running.

Do say...
It's rucking good!

Don't say...
Isn't rugby just an excuse for big men to cuddle each other?