NFL2K2
is the last game in the NFL2K series for Dreamcast. This game has
also been ported to Nintendo Gamecube, X-Box and Playstation 2, which is
where all future editions of this game will reside. Like the other games
in the series, NFL2K2 is a top-notch game. However, while it
certainly doesn't disappoint, unless you are a diehard fan, there isn't a
significant reason to pick up this game if you already have
NFL2K1
other than to complete the series, get the updated rosters or to support
Sega. On it's own, though, this game is a fine addition to any Dreamcast
library.
The graphics and animations are at their best yet, they aren't a vast improvement over NFL2K1, but you do notice the difference. The fields and players look more realistic and the animations are smoother. The graphics show the true power of the Dreamcast. The sounds are crisper than they were in 2K1, giving you even more realism. The commentary has improved a little bit, although nitpickers may still find a thing or two to complain about.
The gameplay is where 2K2 takes a step down from 2K1. The control of the players on the field is still so smooth that it will scare you. All of the play modes and options are here from 2K1, and then some. Where the game suffers is on the pause screen and play selection screen, my one major gripe with NFL2K2.
In NFL2K1, you were able to use the cross pad controller to select your plays or options (on the pause screen), which was very simple and practical. In this year's edition, you have to use the analog stick and then hold it in the direction of your choice. The slightest movement quite leads to you selecting the wrong play or option. When time is short in a quarter/half or on the play clock, it is not convenient to have to carefully navigate the stick to get to the right play. This is very, very frustrating. You have to play this game and compare the selection feature here to that of 2K1 for you to see how truly wretched this changed feature is. I am not impressed, Sega Sports. I personally tried doing something to change this very annoying new selection feature but to no avail.
On
another down note, the artificial intelligence of the computer has not
been boosted any. Running plays actually are easier to score gains on than
they were in 2K1. If you were able to dominate the computer team on here,
get ready to do it again as your same strategies will work here, right
from the first game.
Overall, other than the selection screens and updated player rosters, this is little more than an updated/remixed version of NFL2K1. If you have NFL2K1, try out 2K2 before picking it up. If you don't have any of the games, I might suggest seeking out 2K1, which is in my opinion, the better game and also the better value. Don't get me wrong. I think this is a good game, check out the scores above if you don't believe me.
This certainly isn't a bad way for Sega Sports to end the run of this series on the Dreamcast. My only complaints are the lousy choice to use the analog stick to make selections and the overall lack of additions and improvements to the new version. Who knows maybe you won't mind these things as much as me, the choice is up to you. I paid $10 for 2K1 and $30 for 2K2 and just feel like something is missing with this newer version. Finally, for those of you wondering, Super Bowl MVP Tom Brady is not on the Patriots roster as a backup. The three New England quarterbacks in 2K2 for Dreamcast are Huard, Bledsoe and Bishop.
