EA Sports Active 2 wants to make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a game. The sequel pairs a fitness routine with sports-themed activities, tracking heart rate and calorie burn while you move through drills. It is a strange mix, and it mostly works.
Trailer, via XboxViewTV.
The Routine
The core of EA Sports Active 2 is a structured workout plan. Players choose a goal—weight loss, muscle gain, or general fitness—and the game builds a program around it. Each session runs about thirty minutes and combines strength training, cardio, and stretching.
The game tracks progress over time, showing improvements in strength, endurance, and weight. That persistent feedback is the game’s biggest strength. It gives workouts a sense of purpose beyond simply moving through motions.
Sports Activities
Between the main sessions, EA Sports Active 2 breaks out into short activities tied to sports. These include football passes, basketball shots, and baseball swings. They are meant to add variety to the routine, but they feel like filler rather than essential content.
The sports activities are brief and easy to complete. They offer a change of pace, but they do not deepen the fitness experience.
The Wii Remote
On Wii, EA Sports Active 2 relies heavily on the Wii Remote. Players swing, press, and point to match the on-screen prompts. The motion controls are accurate enough for simple exercises, but they struggle with more complex movements.
The Wii version also includes a Balance Board accessory, which adds a layer of stability and balance training. It is a solid addition for players who own the hardware.
The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 Versions
The PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of EA Sports Active 2 use their respective controllers for input. Players push, pull, and twist to match the prompts on PS3, while the Xbox version uses the Xbox controller for input. Both versions deliver similar motion controls in quality to the Wii version.
The PS3 version also offers a wider range of music options for workouts. That is a small but welcome touch.
Comparing the Platforms
| Platform | Control Scheme | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wii | Wii Remote / Balance Board | Balance Board support |
| PS3 | DualShock 3 | Wider music options |
| Xbox 360 | Xbox controller | None |
The comparison shows a consistent core product across three platforms, with each version adding a small feature that appeals to its audience.
What Works
The tracking system is the standout feature. Seeing calories burned and weight lost over time gives players a reason to keep going. The game also offers a wide range of workouts, so users can switch between routines as their goals shift.
The pacing is well designed. Sessions start slow and build to a peak, then cool down with stretches. That structure keeps workouts from feeling monotonous.
“EA Sports Active 2 is a solid fitness tool.”
What Falls Short
The sports activities are the weakest part of the package. They are fun for a few minutes, but they do not justify the time spent on them. The game could have used more substantial drills or challenges to make them worthwhile.
The motion controls also show their limits. Complex movements, like squats or lunges, are difficult to capture accurately. Players may find themselves guessing what the game wants instead of following through naturally.
The Verdict
EA Sports Active 2 is a competent fitness tool, but it is not a revolution. Its tracking system and varied workouts give it lasting value, while its sports activities and motion controls hold it back from greatness.
The game succeeds when it focuses on the workout itself. It fails when it tries to dress up exercise as a sport. That tension defines the whole experience.
Players looking for a serious fitness companion will find plenty to like. Those hoping for a full sports game will be disappointed. The middle ground is narrow, but it exists.
EA Sports Active 2 earns a score of 7.3 out of 10.
Get the Notebook.
The day's best stories and every fresh verdict, in plain English, in your inbox by seven. One email a day, no more.
