ESPN NFL 2K5

"ESPN NFL 2K5 Changed Me"

ESPN NFL 2K5

Pre-Review:

As a life long Maddenite I was worried what would happen if I switched series. Last year I made the mistake of switching to ESPN NHL Hockey. I decided that this year ill try something new. Impressed by the cheap price I pre ordered the game and waited. As soon as the game was in my hands the magic began.

Graphics 10/10

I have never in my life seen graphics like this in a football game, or any other sports game for that matter. The jerseys look real. From the holes in the mesh to the detail of the shoes. Every once and a while I forget I'm playing a game. At times the game is so smooth that it looks real. The way the Quarterback moves before he releases a cannon shot to a receiver is flawless. The overlays look exactly like an ESPN game on Sunday night. Suzy and Chris look exactly like their real life counter parts. Everything is crisp and smooth. The player's faces are detailed to the T.

Sound 9/10

The sound in this game is very good. It sounds like an actually NFL arena. Boos and cheers are in the correct time. The hits sound like what a bonejarring spear from Ray Lewis should sound like. The little voices heard throughout the game are impressive. Hear a Linebacker taunt the QB before the play ads a little something to the whole experience. My only problem with this game is the voice acting. Now I'm not racist at all. But in this game every white person sounds black and every black person sounds white. I'm sure this was a fixable problem. Just seems like VC wanted to get the game out.

Gameplay 10/10

This is where the game really shines. The fluidity of this game is amazing. Each player controls like he does in real life. The QB rolls out, plants his feet and fires correctly. Each catch is unique. The tackles are spot on. They look so real you find yourself gasping when a shattering hit is delivered on some poor soul. The passing game is great. Unless you time your pass correctly you're not making that pass. It's like that in the NFL and like that in this game. The running game is also a solid part. Making a good run is dependent on many things. Watching where your blockers are and following them. Breaking away from a tackle and sprinting down the field 70 yards has never felt or looked so good.

Extras 11/10

WOW! What can I say? The Halftime report is amazingly detailed. Chris Berman is spot on with the replays. The way they show your plays in the game is great as well. Including the Skycam is a great addition. I love the comparisons between your own receivers is a nice little touch to provide some competition. During Franchise mode the weekly Sportscentre is great. Having each games score and occasional highlights are amazing to watch. Also Free Agent signings and Injury's by Trey Wingo is also great.

Overall 10/10

This is my new favorite game. Look for me online!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 07/23/04