First we start with the visuals, which are both striking and somewhat disappointing all at the same time. The player models are not as detailed as last years, going as far as looking blocky at times. Do they look bad? No, but they could have stood to be at least as sharp as last year. A few reasons that may have made the player models suffer include; more animations for players, animated crowds, and reflective lighting off helmets. These are issues that make one forgive the little clipping and blocky polys. The game in all fairness looks amazing, and almost too realistic at times. You'd swear from a distance that a real game was being played. New animations for tackles, jumps, and plays are very welcome indeed. While they may not be as sharp as last year, the models in my opinion are the most realistic looking compared to the cartoony Madden models. Instant replays are also a joy to witness time after time. Other additions are field deterioration, slicker presentation, and improved stadium models. All in all the game looks fantastic and major props go to the gang at V.C. for another outstanding visual achievement.

Sound, this year, has also been enhanced. Starting with the commentary, which is the best crew since the Triple Play bunch. The play-by-play and color team never miss a beat, keeping up with the most intense action. On field sounds have been expanded with more player chatter, louder PA announcer, and more music to fill the atmosphere with a jolt of excitement. The helmet clashes, grunting, and groans make you feel every hit. Even the options menu gives you the chance to let your ears enter whatever world they wish. You have the choice of TV style, on field, or in the stands, very cool! Once again the sound gets you wrapped up in the game, and does the game as much justice as the visuals.

If the game was only pretty and sounded great that may warrant a purchase, but this game plays incredibly too! The much bragged about enhanced running game is true. Even on pro, it's very possible to get a nice break away on occasion. Unlike Madden, you still can't run a given 15-20 yards per carry though, so those of you who want a cake-walk running game may still be disappointed. The passing game has also been improved with lobs and bullet passes to suit each quarterback differently. Offensive playbooks for each team have been added. Too bad the defensive plays are still the same for each team. One thing is certain; this game is still a toughie! On rookie, it's a breeze. Set this bad boy on Pro or All Pro and you are in for a game that may result in an early reseeding hairline. While still on the hard side, it's still a joy to go one on one with a friend, but this year you can do it online! More on that later. I feel this may go down as the best playing football game since the 16-bit versions, but now with all the beauty you'd expect from the Dreamcast. Just like the DC, NFL 2K1 plays like a dream and doesn't fail to impress me game after game.

Last year's game was lacking options in a major way, but all has been forgiven one year later. We have this year a new franchise mode, which lets you play multiple seasons while your players age and retire. While for some reason a create-a-player hasn't been added for franchise, there is a way to go about doing so. If you want to know, email me and I'll tell ya. The other standards such as season, exhibition, practice, and tourneys are all there this year as well. The obviously biggest addition to NFL2K1 is online play. While still a might buggy at times, you can't deny when playing how this gives consolers a whole new world to explore. Honestly, the game never gets old. Considering the thousands of copies sold, you'll see hundreds of those folks online trying to prove their man-hood/woman-hood. (I give equality or my girlfriend will kill me) This is truly a great day for gaming.

Lag isn't an issue if you go by the rules. Only play folks that you read having a Great to Fair rating, as playing someone with poor may result in major lag. I connect at what I consider a lousy 31.2, but I have found MANY folks to play with no problem at all. While you play online, you'll notice that it's wonderful. It's hard for one to tell if you're playing the CPU or someone in Nebraska! If it weren't for the millisecond pauses on slim occasions, you'd never know. If you own this game and haven't been online yet…shame on you! With all NFL2K1 has to offer this year in options, you'll easily be busy till next football season, or at worst case scenario, till your sites are turned to another online game.

If Sega can keep pouring out beauties like this, not only will folks forget about the dreadful World Series Baseball incident, but also they may forget about the PS2 all together…I know I have. If you've read this far without heading to your local retailer to pick this up, either you own the game already…or you're insane. This is in my opinion the best football game ever. We'll just have to see what Madden offers on Oct 26th. One thing is for sure, Madden doesn't do online.