New Look: Dreamcast NFL2K

As you can probably tell from the screenshots, NFL 2K is visually unbelievable. What you can't tell from the screenshots is that the controls and the players' movements are incredibly smooth as well.

Players resemble their real-life counterparts and move realistically, with multiple animations for tackling, catching, and falling. Bringing lifelike action to the field, players put their arms out in front of themselves when falling and react realistically to multiple hits. Additionally, the collision detection of the players - whether they are on the ground or battling for control of the ball in midair - is outstanding. Not only do the players look great, but sideline spectators, and photographers, while only 2D sprites, add a nice effect and mood to the title.

The most impressive feature in NFL2K is how well the controls match up with the visuals. In games like this one – where animation is heavy - lag is common. Normally, when you execute a jump for the ball you'd be forced to wait a few seconds more for the animation to complete before you could continue. Thankfully, button to on-screen reaction times in NFL2K feel almost instantaneous without any lag.

Announcers, stadium music, the crowd, and player grunts and groans sound equally realistic. Numerous announcers call the play-by-play action, provide color commentary, and even give reports from the field about the players and coaches. The quality of the announcers is really quite extraordinary, not only for its superfast reaction time, but also for its diversity and flavor.

NFL 2K looks incredible, plays well, and really seems to capture the feel and presentation of football. Dreamcast owners may have their first touchdown on the day that the system releases in the US.