NFL GameDay 2003
- August 12, 2002 00:00 AM PST
NFL GameDay 2003 is new and improved with sharper graphics, smoother animation, and better gameplay.
989 Sports delivers its latest installment of NFL GameDay onto the crowded PS2 NFL playing field. In past years, this long-running franchise has fallen short of the bar set by category leaders EA Sports' Madden and Sega�s NFL 2K. This year, the advances in gameplay, graphics, and features are quite noticeable as GameDay is a solid, enjoyable football experience; however, it�s still not yet ready to take the starter position.
(Truly) New and Improved
The most noticeable improvement is the fluid graphics that feature smooth 60 frames-per-second animation, more detailed players, stadiums, and cut-scenes between plays. The players have more depth and weight onscreen, helping to discern one from another in crowds. The revised onscreen playbook presentation follows the NFL 2K method of overlaying plays onto the playing field so you can visually see how they will play out; however, flipping between sets of plays is still a little awkward. Additional improvements include a three-man commentary booth, plus sideline reporting that actually tends to increase chatter. The new kicking interface, which enables you to put a little English on the ball, is a unique authentic touch. Online play is a prerequisite this year and everything worked well. There were some minor hiccups and some kinks that could be worked out as Sony's online service officially launches. We'll have more on online play in the next coming weeks.
(Game) Days Ahead
GameDay restores some of its luster by looking sharper and playing crisper than it has in previous years. 989 Sports has taken big strides in recognizing and addressing its shortcomings, and it shows in this football experience. Still, Madden and NFL 2K3 have also made forward strides this year, so GameDay takes a respectable place behind those starters.
