The sequel to arguably the best football game on the Dreamcast is here. Sorry for the late review. I've been pretty lazy. Anyway on with the game. Yes, the anticipation for this game has been pretty high as soon as the first one came out. The problems have been fixed. And yes it's now easier to run in the game and the AI has seemed to have gone on steroids. This game is a hell of a lot tougher than its predecessor. Most of the many NFL 2K fans welcome the challenge. Bring it on!
Did Anyone Say, Better Graphics?
I really wanted to see if this game was better than the original NFL 2K visually. The answer. Yes and No. The player models move more realistically now, but seem to have lost a very little amount of detail since last years version. It's no bother though. Maybe because of the internet option that the graphics had to be downgraded just a little bit. But forget the models. Let's talk about the new animations. And believe me there's a whole crapload of them. I'm still seeing new tackles each time I play. There are new wraparound tackles, some tackles that look like choke slams, tackles that'll trip the player and other animations like a player stumbling trying to regain their balance. It looks more like the real game. The running animations are done very nicely as are the new ones for the battle between the offensive line and the defensive line. It really does look like a defensive player is trying to sack the quarterback while the offensive lineman is trying everything to stop the guy. This aspect of the game is very cool. The recievers haven't changed much, but now they look like they are actually catching the ball and guiding it toward their hands. And now the players actually look at the ball as it's coming. The one graphical touch that is very cool is the reflection of the stadiums on the players helmets. The shine is amazing and adds to the atmoshpere of the game. The stadiums are well created. As with last year. Nothing really new except for the new animated crowds. I barely notice them, unless I zoomed up on the them in replay mode. If only they did something like the wave or something. Is it an upgrade to last years version is probably what I'll ask myself about the graphics. The answer. Well the animations add tremedously to the game but the player models look about the same. But who cares? I'll say yes.
How About the Running Game?
What the hell do you think? The running game is awesome!!! The blocking is much better so your favorite running back can go for that 3rd and inches to get the first of bust out for a freakin' 72 yard touchdown. It's so refreshing to do this. Just the running game alone adds depth to the gameplay. Finally a running attack. Plus an all new juke move is in effect so it will be harder to catch that ever elusive Mr. Davis. And breaking more tackles for Mr. Davis. That'll be hard too. It's more of a happening to break more tackles. It's fun to watch. But watch out. If you're Eddie George or Jerome Bettis hit the holes. If your Warrick Dunn or Charlie Garner, you better head to the sidelines cause in real life Warrick uses his speed not his power moves. The passing game took about 8 games for me to get used to. It's significantly different and way harder to catch passes. Those DBs now have bump and run coverage and they'll do anyting to jam your best reciever. Now it's harder to get those wide open routes for Randy Moss to catch. It's time to earn them. The kicking game has changed a little bit also. Now you just don't have to aim and kick. There's more of a timing rythym involved in it. The arrow now moves without your consent either left or right. And you'll have to line it up right to get it through the goal posts. It sure adds to the pressure of kicking. The gameplay here is totally deep. Talk about some kick-ass gameplay.
Ahh, Those Broadcasters in the Booth
The sound is better in this years game than last. The broadcasters now talk a little bit less but now the commentary is smarter. Some of the dialogue is the same, but the new jokes are pretty funny and refreshing to hear. Those voice actors are pretty good. The onfield sounds are louder and crunchier. Mmmm. There is more player chatter. Well more like player smack talk. It's so cool to hear especially when they actually talk about your quarterback using his name and how the D is going to bury him in the ground. The crowd is louder this year and know when to cheer and boo in certain situations. The chant of "Bruuuuuce" for Issac Bruce is pretty cool too. And the touchdown effects like the Viking horn and the Seahawk scream add to the stadium atmosphere.
Overall
The best football game ever just got better. With Madden 2001 along the way, this game holds more than its fair share. And with the addition of online gaming, it has a huge headstart on Madden. Sorry I didn't talk about the online aspect, but I don't really use the online service yet. Don't rag on me please. Just buy this game. Dang is it football season already? I know you're rebuilding but go Niners!
--Alvin
Graphics: 9.9
Sound: 9.4
Gameplay: 9.8
Satisfaction: 9.9
Overall: 9.9
