Pros: Great football game, graphics, gameplay ,CAREER mode
Cons: Career mode doesn't go on forever, no Hall of Fame
Full review
If you've read my previous reviews on some other products, I like running the team and making moves rather then playing the game itself. Now, I know most of you hardcore arcade gamers out there must think I'm nuts, but I just enjoy it more.
Not only is this game pleasure to play but the career mode is so much better then last year's try at perfection. Of course it has all the teams and players. Also, a new mode called Madden Challenge is designed for you to beat the computer in little statistical contests for little perks in the game. A pretty good idea, but most people just skip over that.
GRAPHICS - The in-game graphics are very good. The players look like they should, unlike some games where you can't really tell the difference between a kicker and a lineman. All of the stadiums are in the game and they are beautifully rendered. They look so realistic. They've added some players on the sideline to add a bit of realism. Watch as they cheer on your team.
GAMEPLAY - The gameplay is phenomenal in Madden 2000. The gameplay has really stepped it up as more competition is coming from NFL Gameday. There are plenty of plays to choose from on offense and defense. The control is amazingly tight. Another important thing I love is now you can actually return a kickoff for a touchdown. I personally did it with Randy Moss, so it is possible.
CAREER MODE - Ahh, the bread and butter of this game. If you like playing out the games or simming, this is one important option. In previous games, you would play an entire season and then just reset it and do it again. What replay value does a game like that have? When you finish a season in Madden 2000, the next thing you should be thinking about is what spots you need to fill for the next season. If you do not do well in the next season or thereafter, the general manager may slam the axe on you, thus forcing you to sign with another team that has an opening at coach. It also keeps your record as coach, along with playoff appearances.
After the season commences, the game will retire old players, go into a NFL trading period, a 45-day in-depth free agent signing period, and then an NFL draft to restock the talent. In career or franchise mode, the players get better and/or worse as the years go on. Watch out for those career ending injuries though. Seems like I always get stuck with them.
So, this game has it all, from top to bottom. If you like football, Madden 2000 is the best game possible.