February 2003 Volume 10 Number 2
Final Verdict 63%
Highs: New Control Scheme; gets the visual details right, huge number of animations.
Lows: Not even close to a Simulation; gameplay is way too fast ; AI can't keep Up
Bottom Line: Fun in a hyperkinetic kind of a way, but it doesn't hold up under extended gameplay.
"A great-looking highlight reel posing as a basketbal game"
"Sorry simulation fans, but it looks like we've lost another one.
They gone on to say that much like the NHL franchise, the NBA Live series has now officially gone over to the darkside.
"Eschewing any any sense of realism for a graphics-focused, super- speedy, wow lookat that dunk (again) gameplay experience".
"Gameplay speed is also a major headache, both in how fast the game plays and that you need only play six or seven minute quarters to rack up 100 points per side. "Blocked shots and steals, which have always been an issue, are now worse than ever.
They mention that "free style controls are subtle in their effectiveness because you you need the reaction of a frightened cobra on uppers to keep up with the ball handler".
"Casual gamers who want an exciting basketball game are going to be thrilled with NBA LIve 2003 -- they should be, since the're the crowd for whom it was obviouly made.
"Those of us who were hoping for a game we could sink our teeth into will be left assed-out".
Hopefully this review will be posted on their site reviews, in the near future.
I agree completely! NBA Live has been turned into a childish version NBA Jam!
M. Calcagno