Graphically the game is a mixed bag. While the game runs very smooth, the player models are done above and beyond the DC version, and the grass textures have never looked better, the game just looks stale compared Madden and Fever. Not that the game looks bad at all. It is just that the presentation is very elementary in this day and age of 128 bit products. You’ll find nothing more in the setup screens than a rehash of the DC menus, which were bland to begin with. On the other hand, the game is visually solid, with a decent frame rate. The animations still seem ported from the DC, and the action is more over the top than sim, but overall the package is nice for a first attempt by V.C. One thing that has drastically changed is the players actually have faces on the Xbox. Not only are they very nicely rendered and texturemapped, but they show emotion as well. This was sorely missing from the 2K series in the past and is a welcome addition this year. What really stands out in my opinion are the replays, which are some of the best I’ve seen to date. Not only do they give you all kinds of special effects, like panning, slow motion, rewinding, etc. But some instances they will mark certain points out as if using a teleprompter. This is very cool indeed. NFL 2k2 is far from being an eye sore; it just needs a bit of polish here and there.

The audio is stunning. From the Dolby surround ambiance, to the incredible commentary, NFL 2k2 has the best sports audio around…period. Listening through my 5.1 receiver, I can hear every crunch, pop, crowd intimidation, and trash talking from every angle. The audio is crisp and flows wonderfully without a hiccup. The commentary is unmatched. This is the best play-by-play crew since the old days of Triple Play Baseball. The commentators not only accurately give you the current plays and happenings on the field, not only do they keep you updated through out the game, reminding you of past instances, but they have clever commentary even throughout the instant replays. The first time I saw this happen, I was floored. Kudos to Visual Concepts for raising the bar that all sports games should strive to reach some day

Gameplay is fantastic, if not slightly over the top and Arcadey. While I honestly prefer simulation, I had a very good time playing NFL2k2. The A.I. is very solid. You will be hard pressed not to find a challenge. What impressed me most was the effect the weather conditions had on the game. The ball actually becomes hard to control when wet or snowy. Early in the game you’ll notice the ball is caught with ease, but once that ball hits the ground a few times, let the fumbles fly. Even your players will bobble balls because of weather. Weather you’re playing offense or defense the game is smart and challenging. My only real gripe is the game leans more towards arcade play.

There are plenty of options for the diehard fan, including exhibition, season, tournament, fantasy league, customization (from leagues to teams it’s all there) and franchise mode. One thing stands out in this section that kept this game from reaching “A” status, the blatant elimination of allowing your create a player to play in the franchise mode. This was tolerable in NFL 2K, but two sequels later this option is still left out? Why? I’m a fantasy buff and you’re trying to tell me that I can’t build a rookie player from scratch and watch him develop? Shame on you Visual Concepts, by omitting this feature and blemishing a nice, solid package.

I for one have never really been a diehard fan of the 2K franchise, yet Visual Concepts and Sega have added some wonderful additions to this year’s product that may win me over one day. I can honestly say I had a blast playing through this title, and it gave me a fresh look on what the other games may have left out. NFL 2k2 may not be the best the Xbox has to offer, but you could do a whole lot worse in making a purchase of this fine title.

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