Unfortunately for Sega,
NFL 2K2 was released too late in the marketing scheme of the Xbox. Had it been on the market before (or even at the same time as)
Madden, it may have had a shot at being the king of the gridiron on Microsoft's new system. But, since the offering is now just coming out, it didn't get the credit it deserves.
For example, NFL 2K2's gameplay style is slightly different that its competitors'. With a more in-your-face presentation, 2K2 gets you closer to the field than any other. Adding the TV-style cinematics of different camera angles also grabs you in the privates and says, 'You are the star of the game, so either bust your ass or get off the field.' In fact, for those of you that are lucky enough to own a Dreamcast, NFL 2K2 is nearly the same exact game on a different system.
NFL 2K2 offers all of the standard features that any good football game does, including the much-needed Franchise Mode to coincide with the Season Mode. Unfortunately, even though the Xbox has Internet accessibility built in, NFL 2K2 does not. So for all of you out there hoping to hook up with your buddy on his DC, you're out of luck. It's a shame that Sega didn't include 'Net capabilities, or even the ability to play over a LAN, which would have allowed users to play offense and defense with their own perspectives. Hopefully we will begin to see developers take advantage of the easy Xbox Linking feature in future sports titles.
Sega's newest title is an outstanding offering for any football fan looking for a slightly arcade-style experience. It's not that the game is far-fetched as this may imply, but it does seem that both running and passing the ball is a bit too easy. Fortunately, the speed of the game is higher than most, so you must be quick, or face being tackled in the backfield for a loss. Defense is a bit trickier. I find it harder to control players than other football games, but tackling is actually easier than most as your players will dive well past their natural abilities should allow.
NFL 2K2 is a great game with great features and gameplay. The one thing I wish had been modified is the horrendous style of play-calling. If you're alone in a dark room, it's no big whoop. But if you're taking on your buddy, you'll quickly find it annoying that each play you call is drawn up on the screen for all to look at. Sure, you can fake your opponent out as you call plays, but it doesn't excuse the fact that offensive and defensive plays overlap each other on the screen.
HINT to Sega Sports: STOP IT!!!
