Though, even after two years of gameplay and graphic refinements, 2K2 or even the editions before it should not necessarily be acknowledged as the anti-Madden. In fact, it's anything but - more like apples and oranges. Madden consists of a greater degree of technical details and nuances that appeal primarily to gamers who prefer a virtual simulation of the real thing. While the latter is fast paced and arcade-oriented. But when it comes down to it, both titles are designed to provide an wholly entertaining experience.

As the latest installment in Visual Concepts' gridiron series, NFL 2K2 is without a doubt, the most polished edition to date. Sports games seem to be the hardest genre to truly harness a level of perfection (which of course, is a stretch of the word itself - no game is ever perfect! 'Nuff said!). Even if you aren't a football purist, gameplay quips which affected the offensive and running game last year have been tweaked substantially. Yes, Visual Concepts went back to drawing board, and poured on a number of refinements. Anyone who's played either of the first two editions can easily jump into a game session. Gameplay features such as Maximum Passing, along with the primary pass types (normal pass, bullet, and lob respectively) are retained from last year. In order to bring the passing game as close to the real thing - QBs will have even less time to study the zone for an open man, not to mention that you'll need to study the defensive line. Compared to NFL 2K, the days of easy passes are becoming a thing of the past. Fortunately, pump fakes (executed by double tapping of the corresponding button) also return - which prove highly effective in baiting the defense.

For the record, I am more of a passing player. That said, I found the receivers to be basically the same as they've been in the previous two editions. Like its predecessor NFL 2K1, the timing routes retain the same level of importance, if not moreso. To reiterate - you've really got to know your plays and the timing routes, or you'll be getting picked 24/7 (and yes, this admonishment comes from personal experience). I don't know all of the technical terms, compared to some editors in the field - but one of the most common problems that generally plague all football games, known as "Mario Running" has been addressed. Just what is "Mario Running" one may ask? I certainly did…I asked a few "sport moguls" and they were just as perplexed as me. It's game jargon to describe what occurs when a running back runs into the back of an offensive lineman with the intent of slipping through a hole, but instead of slipping past the blocker - he becomes stuck and remains running in place until the user moved him away or the player gets tackled. Thus, Visual Concepts incorporated new animations in the event if this situation ever occurs. Sure enough, I encountered this on various occasions - the running back either puts a hand out to push off the lineman in front of him, or turns his shoulders, just enough to break through the hole.

After a few minutes of play, it becomes evident just how much VC valued to tweak the gameplay in order to deliver the most optimal football experience possible. And that's basically what's made the series stand out (and what attracted it to me when NFL 2K came on the scene). The defensive game has been cranked up a couple of notches (the Rookie level feels somewhat like the Pro level in previous editions). Defensive lineman whap down, or make considerable attempts (where applicable) to intercept the ball. Although I exceptionally make exclusive pass plays, there are times when that won't be the best option, and you'll need to make a few running plays. Compared to last year, NFL 2K2 raises the bar for running backs and fullbacks, giving them new juke moves, which complement the stiff arms, quick hurdles and the highly effective spin move. You'll find that when these moves are used in conjunction with each other adds a greater degree of depth and enjoyment.

It's important to truly gain a mastery over the new techniques featured in NFL 2K2. One particular example is the spin move, designed to escape tackles from a defenseman. If you anticipate the move, but spin too early, you'll probably escape, but you'll lose some momentum from the speed, and temporary loss of control to your runner while sprinting to the end zone. Though this isn't to say that this is a golden move, key defense players in the NFL league will stop you cold, regardless how good your timing might be. You're going down, no questions asked. Personally, I am still learning the running game myself (being the fact that I've specialized in passing games over the years). NFL 2K2 features a myriad of animations which are trigged according to certain situations. Players make mid-air and shoestring catches, spin moves (not just on the ground either…but even in mid-air), among a few other animations that can't truly be described, but must be witnessed in order to truly appreciate the magnitude as to how far the gameplay has advanced.

But what of the passing game? This year's edition has been tweaked to the point so that you'll want to have maximum passing on (which basically allows players to slightly adjust the trajectory of the ball up to the point when your QB releases the ball). And with this year's defense being substantially tougher, you need all the offensive tools you can get. Timing is vital to successfully achieving completions and reaching the end zone, otherwise you'll find yourself incredibly frustrated as the ball gets turned over. Don't try going for those huge deep plays (you know, those 3rd and 45 type of plays after you've already been sacked and such). If your QB doesn't have ample time to get the ball off…it's best to stand and deliver, in order to avoid those 30 yard drop backs. Just be sure to keep a watchful eye on the defense's lineup. Go for short passes, as longer passes will raise the probability of an inaccurate pass.

Of course, gameplay modes are aplenty - offering players the following: Practice, Tourney (4, 8 or 16 team setup) Exhibition, Season, Franchise, Options, Quick Start, and Customize. Quick Start requires no in-depth explanation. Simply select this option and the computer will randomly select teams for a impromptu Exhibition game. A recent staple to football games in recent years - the Franchise Mode lets players assume the role of the general manager and coach. Players will be able to have direct control over the corresponding team as you lead them throughout the season. This is where the simulation aspects shine through, as you will draft new talent, cut and sign players, and manage the salary cap in your plight to form a dynasty. Other features include options to create your own team or players (using a multitude of attributes and uniform details from head to toe). NFL 2K2 features the same menu layout as featured on the Dreamcast and PS2 editions…with only marginal differences (notably in the load time and graphic engine).

The visuals, of course MUST be addressed. Once again, VC demonstrates its integrity to the fullest to not only deliver the most enriching gameplay experience, but the most graphically realistic football title on the market. The only other title that can hold a candle to NFL 2K2 would be Madden 2002 (which thankfully moved away from the abnormal sized players who oddly looked like aliens, or something). Player models are detailed to the tee, complete with various facial expressions, and are all modeled after actual NFL players (no generic aspects here). The facial emotions are fantastic, players smile in acknowledgment of a fantastic play, and get agitated (complete with body language) to show their disappointment. It's simply one step further on VC's behalf to bring a new dimension of realism as you've never seen it before, and it's safe to say that it will form a trend among its competitors. Additional graphic highlights include realistic lightning and extensive attention to detail to recreate every NFL stadium in the league. Visual excellence notwithstanding, NFL 2K2 maintains the surreal atmosphere, complimented by the TV-style presentation, which players can configure the camera angles ranging a variety of perspectives of your choice. In addition, NFL 2K2 features a diverse selection of options to change weather conditions, fatigue, play-calling (formation or package), quarter length, difficulty, etc.

The pre-sports game show features a much more authentic presentation, that would feel just like the real thing if professional sportscasters were giving you the details in the booth. Once again, Peter O'Keefe and Dan Stevens bring their color commentary to report the details of each team. While this edition offers the most extensive level of dialogue to date, you'll still encounter instances where they recycle the same expressions in redundant fashion. There's only so much I can take of "You can't coach that!" Next year...let's see a wee bit more diversity in the dialogue folks - please! Even the PA personnel features a slight increase in dialogue diversity (and personality) - "If you're standing up, sit down...if you're sitting down, stand up..." Minor touches like this are what as a whole define VC's football package as one of the most distinct and authentic football titles on the market. The overall sound effects featured within the stadium, both on the field and in the stands are crisp and realistic. Players utter trash-talk phrases at each other, referees call out penalty plays, and fans in the stand boo, cheer and of course, have their own two cents of the action on the field. However, to its credit, the commentary does keep track of game, be it completions or sacks, to name a few. In turn, the broadcasting duo will highlight at various instances later throughout the game. And speaking of highlights, this year's replay mode truly takes the cake.

Using a history database, NFL 2K2 recreates dynamic highlights of previous plays that occurred during the game. At times, the replays will not only slow up, but recreate the highlight in a perspective that gives you the impression cameras are deposited on the field - talk about getting into the game…these replays do a terrific job!

Unlike football purists, there's not much I can personally address in the area of disatisfaction. (There's plenty of highly extensive articles out there which can report such I am sure). I've addressed this title as a casual player, which when it comes to sports games like football, is basically what I am. One has to truly be searching (read: anal retentive) for nitpicks to come up with issues to suggest that NFL 2K2 isn't a solid title. As expressed in the outset of this review, this is the best edition to date. Players that aren't too fond with Madden 2002 will no doubt be fascinated at the package Visual Concepts has served this year. If you've been indecisive as to your choices, get off the sidelines and out to your local retailer and pick this game up.

· · · Bahn