An engine system includes a first motor-generator that generates electricity in a first mode and drives a first output shaft in a second mode and a first engine that is coupled to the first motor-generator and drives the first motor-generator in the first mode to generate electricity. The engine system also includes a second motor-generator that generates electricity in a first mode and drives a second output shaft in a second mode and a second engine that is coupled to the second motor-generator and drives the second motor-generator in the first mode to generate electricity. A control module changes the mode of operation of at least one of the first motor-generator and the second motor-generator from the first mode to the second mode based on a state of at least one of the first engine and the second engine.