Online dynasties, online roster sharing and, yes, mascot games are just a few of the features Electronic Arts is promising to deliver in "NCAA Football 09," the latest entry in EA Sports' college football franchise.

On the field, the focus is back on offense thanks to the new Breakaway Animation Engine, which allows moves like spins and jukes to be chained together seemlessly. Users can also break out of an animation if the situation calls for it, which should lead to more fluid gameplay. EA is promising a more wide-open game, with bigger holes and cutback lanes for running backs and a college-specific tackling engine. 

Other additions to gameplay include the ability to return missed field goals, smart routes for receivers, better passing control and formation audibles.

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Former Arkansas running back Darren McFadden is the cover athlete for "NCAA Football 09."

Visually "NCAA 09" features improved player models and more than 50 alternate uniforms, field that degrade over time and more authentic sidelines with additional players, mascots, cheerleaders, etc. Gamers will also be able to customize stadium sounds and music.

Other new features include the ability to watch a CPU vs CPU game, a steady 60 FPS on the PS3 and an even-teams option for exhibition games.

Currently slated to ship July 15, "NCAA 09" will be available on all next-gen consoles -- Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii -- plus the PlayStation 2 and PSP.

For the latest videogame news, check out the Plugged In blog at thegazz.com.

On the field, the focus is back on offense thanks to the new Breakaway Animation Engine, which allows moves like spins and jukes to be chained together seemlessly. Users can also break out of an animation if the situation calls for it, which should lead to more fluid gameplay. EA is promising a more wide-open game, with bigger holes and cutback lanes for running backs and a college-specific tackling engine. 

Other additions to gameplay include the ability to return missed field goals, smart routes for receivers, better passing control and formation audibles.

"NCAA 09" includes some changes to the dynasty mode, as well. In addition to the online option, gamers can expect to see dynamic crowds (not every game will be a sellout), an improved recruiting system, new play-by-play commentary and post-game presentation. Does this mean EA is finally making use of its ESPN license? We'll have to wait and see.

Visually "NCAA 09" features improved player models and more than 50 alternate uniforms, field that degrade over time and more authentic sidelines with additional players, mascots, cheerleaders, etc. Gamers will also be able to customize stadium sounds and music.

Other new features include the ability to watch a CPU vs CPU game, a steady 60 FPS on the PS3 and an even-teams option for exhibition games.

Currently slated to ship July 15, "NCAA 09" will be available on all next-gen consoles -- Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii -- plus the PlayStation 2 and PSP.

For the latest videogame news, check out the Plugged In blog at thegazz.com.