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By Lonnie on January 27th, 2002
Introduction After making a suprise announcement to go multi-platform Sega began announcing sports games like crazy. For many Dreamcast fans the 2k series was their only choice for solid football action. After Electronics Arts made the low blow of deciding not to support the Dreamcast its no suprise when Sega beats them at their own game. Find out how NFL2k2 on the Xbox console stands up to that on the ps2 and Dreamcast, As well as how it stacks up to Madden. Keep in mind that there are several hard-core madden fans out there who certainly will not admit when they are beat. Same goes for Sega Fans.Presentation I would have to say that I am most pleased with the xbox version of NFL2k2. Perhaps its the obvious fact that Microsoft ripped the controller layout from the Dreamcast, Thus making me feel most at home with this game. The menu’s seem almost natural, unlike with the ps2 version. And the overall feel of the original manages to sneak through. Other than the some slight graphical enhancements made later in development, a few new lines of speech, faster load times and an incredibly tougher defense against the running game. The Xbox version is practically identical to its PS2 brother. In all honesty I seriously doubt you will notice the visual difference. Without becoming a complete nerd and pointing out every tiny detail. Or putting the games side by side. Lets move on shall we.Graphics & Sound Graphically NFL2k2 is hit and miss. Madden is far better with the player models and overall pizzazz of the stadiums. While NFL2k2 focuses more on the facial animation’s, AKA the emotions of the players and the amazing detail of their motion. Which makes me wonder if super realistic bodies are better than facial animation’s and real life movement on the field? This also brings in another game. NFL Fever 2002, it would be impossible to say which is the better of the two however NFL2k2 beats Fever in the area of shadowing, and reflections. Never thought you would care about the reflection on a helmet before did you? Either way I’m sure most everyone is more interested in the game not necessarily the graphical style. On the side of commentary NFL2k2 wins hands down. Anyone killed that annoying jelly roll madden yet? I feared so. NFL2k2 features some of the best commentary I have heard, even in real football games. Which makes me wonder why those guys don’t get into the business for real? Anyhow there isn’t a lot in the form of music other than that kick ass song played during the menu.Gameplay NFL 2K2 features all of the standard gameplay modes, including exhibition, practice, tournament, season, playoffs, and franchise. Its an officially licensed product which enables you to access all the real teams, players, and stadiums from last year. Missing from both the ps2 an xbox versions of the game was the online capabilities. While it was last years biggest selling point on the Dreamcast, its plain to see that the game doesn’t have to be online to be great. One of the best things about the Xbox version of the game is the overall tight control. Something that really puts you on the field and in the game. Football is a very simple game to the normal person. So why should a football video game be any more complicated (Ahem, Madden) In NFL2k2 you pick plays, Run or pass, and actually catch the ball. If your in a tight spot and need to run faster simply tap the A button. You can throw the ball to your receivers by using the analog stick and catch by pressing the Y button. These awesomely thought out controls put you deep into the game for what will most likely be the funnest football memory to ever grace your television set. Lasting Appeal Sadly fans of the Madden series will likely hate the game if given the chance. Could it be because they know its a real challenge? Or because its a fun yet easy to play game? Or has EA brainwashed them all into loving their overrated product? Well, only time will tell.Conclusion You will buy this game, if not, you will be missing out on what Dreamcast owners have been enjoying for over two years now. It is certainly not the most realistic game out there but one heck of a fun one. You will no doubt enjoy it long after the super bowl and well into next season, at least until we get 2k3. I would like to finish this review by saying that I am very glad to see a company come and beat EA at their own game. Especially when EA hurt them badly on the Dreamcast project. So Electronic Arts, WHO IS YOUR DADDY NOW? |
