NFL Fever 2004

NFL Fever 2004 might still need some time to cook.

NFL Fever 2004 is a game in transition. It?s going from arcade-style all-out action to more sim-style football that emphasizes defense as well as offense. As such it?s got all the standard bells and whistles covered, including historic teams, Dynasty mode, and XSN online support. But the key is gameplay and control, and that?s where Fever?s a little rough around the edges.

Under Control
Like any third-year player this game?s got potential, but right now the controls and gameplay interface run hot and cold. Some individual controls are absolutely sweet, enabling you to execute impressive-looking, intricate moves such as back pedaling on pass defense or dropping a shoulder charge on a run. Moreover, the new Read and Lead passing option is a great control scheme that enables advanced players to enjoy awesome replay value.

On the other hand, for all the great individual features the way they work together during gameplay is sometimes lacking. The basic play diagrams are hard to read at first glance, and there are so many potential buttonpresses that often your players don?t seem to respond directly to any of them.

Leave It to Fever
The graphics are similarly schizophrenic. Player models are lushly colored and some player animations show amazingly lifelike movement. On the other hand, teams set up or shift formations like robots, and some players look either too thin or too heavy.

The sounds hold up their end of the show. The play-by-play is among the best in the business at calling exact, post-play details.

Fever?s definitely a game you can grow to love. In fact, Fever 2004 gives every indication that the 2005 edition it is going to be some kind of Xbox monster?but that?s a season away.

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