Cons: Too many bugs out of the box, CPU has "comeback" code!
The Bottom Line: I would wait, check the other websites for Patch info, but don't buy this game unless you like "Arena" football. Don't be fooled by the pretty graphics!
johnriii's Full Review: Madden NFL 2002 for Game Boy Advance (GBA)
I just bought a Pentium 4 computer, and was excited about the ability to play "new" games...I rushed out and bought this game, and was immediately blown away by the graphics!! It is plain gorgeous! Football season hasn't started yet, but I play this specifically for the graphics, it whets my appetite until the real thing comes along (less than a week).
Now for the problem(s). The computer AI on offense is rigged! I play coach mode most of the time, and call a pretty decent defensive game based on the situation, but if you happen to be ahead in the 4th quarter, prepare to be torched repeatedly! Especially if you're ahead by 14 or more. I held a very "average" quarterback to 8-22 for 45 yards all game long, until the 4th quarter. I lead by 17. the game ended with his stats at 16-31, 230 yards! needless to say I lost, and was very hacked off!!
This scenario would be ok, if it happened once or twice a season, but this is pretty regular stuff if you're ahead late in the game.
To try and shorten this, basically it looks as if the programmers focused much more on offense, and the defense seems to be there as garnishing. Linebackers play as if they don't like contact, DB's stand and watch the receiver go for the ball, THEN try to make the tackle, blitzing defenders actually STOP their pursuit on the QB, or change their course as they close on him! One handed catches by receivers are the norm, at least ten-twelve per game. This reminds me of the "triple play" series, with the HIGH focus on offense and graphics, very little on pitching and defense. I am disappointed, to say the least!
Please, SOMEONE make a football game that plays like REAL football...I would even put up with bad graphics and more realistic gameplay!!!
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Motion-capture animation new modes real NFL teams awesome graphics hour-player action, Platforms: Game Boy Advance, ESRB Rating: EveryoneMore at Amazon Marketplace
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