Graphically this game is a beauty, and this is comparing it to NFL 2K1! Sure, I'm not insane, it doesn't hold the poly power NFL 2K1 does, but it isn't quite the ugly mess of pixels that the PSX version displays. While the player models aren't the best, the animations certainly are for the N64. Even when the action gets slightly choppy, you can't deny how gorgeous of a N64 title this really is. Add weather and TV style cameras to make this a visual accomplishment for the boys/girls over at Electronic Arts.

Sound, while not brilliant, isn't terrible either considering this is a cartridge. Pat Summerall and John Madden make their voices heard this year, but both really have the enthusiasm of an insomniac who's lacked 4 days of sleep. Granted, this isn't the fault of the game, just the fault of the soon to be retired announcers. If the game does display any fault in audio, it's the lack of room a cart really gives. Madden's one liners repeat, and repeat often. It gets to the point that makes one wish for a PA announcer instead. Summerall does a fine job, with statements, which keep fresh like lettuce in a grocery store. Crowds react to certain situations, and even the refs and coaches give a hand in the audio department. Overall, for a cart, they did a good job. Considering the amount of features crammed in this game, it's not a bad thing that the audio was sacrificed a little.

Game play for the Madden series hasn't changed one lick. This my fine feathered friends, is a good thing. Madden games have played most excellent, whether it was on the 16-bit platforms or soon to be PS2, the wonderful game play has remained in tact. Saying this, I must suggest veterans to set this on Pro or higher as the running game is a joke on rookie. 3rd and 20 can be simplified in one running play, that just isn't right. Bump up that A.I. if you want a challenge, and what a challenge they bring. Whether you like to pass or throw, you'll soon be cussing out the TV and throwing your controller against the wall when being picked off for making a stupid call. (Remember, the game doesn't cheat, you just suck…sorry)

Like a gift from the gods, Madden 2001 finally gives N64 owners the option to play multiple seasons in franchise mode. Not only that, but you can do something that the folks at Visual Concepts forgot to include this year…create a dynasty team! You can build your team from the ground up, from the choice of uniform colors, to where the new stadium will be and attendance. It is a beautiful thing. The limits are really your imagination when it comes to customization. Other features included are fun mini-games, like 2-minute drills and Madden cards. Madden cards are earned while playing, which are tools to unlock teams and secrets for replay value up the wazoo! Believe me folks; if this is your only pigskin game till the Game Cube, you'll still have plenty of game play to keep you happy 'til next year.

While the game suffers from a few flaws, it's identical to its PSX cousin, just with a prettier face. One thing is true, Madden 2001 is the best football game to ever grace a cartridge, and EA leaves the N64 with a bang. Good job guys!