NBA Live 2001 was last year's best PS2 basketball game by default. Because of the game's lack of competition, players excused its poor presentation, long load times, sluggish controls, and poor artificial intelligence. Thankfully, EA Sports listened to all the negative feedback and is working hard to improve the sequel. Even by looking at a pre-alpha version, it's easy to see that NBA Live 2002 contains numerous improvements over its predecessor.
The graphics are the most notable enhancement. Players are far more detailed in this version, sporting the same afros, cornrows, tattoos, armbands, and headbands--among other details--as their real-life counterparts. Further adding to the accurate portrayals is a wider variety of player heights and builds. The game's engine is much smoother, allowing for more natural movement. As previously mentioned, the AI has been improved--players will no longer alternate between standing around helplessly and wandering around aimlessly. The developer was quick to point out that the load times that plagued last year's version will be greatly shortened.
Zone defenses will be allowed in accordance with the new NBA rules. There are more than 50 new dunk and celebration animations. Franchise mode returns to the series, allowing players to control a team for up to 10 years. As general manager, gamers will have to trade and draft new players in a quest to win an NBA championship. With additional polishing, NBA Live 2002 will match the quality of EA's many excellent PS2 titles. Look for it in winter 2001. --Raymond M. Padilla
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