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CNET editors' rating:
2.0 stars
Mediocre
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Product summary
The well-drawn graphics are perhaps the game's strongest point, especially in the dunks and instant replays.
Specifications: ESRB: Everyone; Genre: Sim; Elements: Basketball Sim; See full specs
Gamespot editors' review
- Reviewed on: 05/04/1999
- Updated on:05/02/2000
- Released on: 03/31/1999
If head coaches have nightmares, they probably look a lot like the games played in NBA In the Zone '99. Although this PlayStation game offers crisp graphics and a few new additions, its highly questionable AI makes offense a breeze and defense a joke at all difficulty levels. Those coaches who stress that defense wins ball games may want to stop reading here.
From a features standpoint, this game matches up evenly with its competitors. Aside from the expected exhibition, season, and playoff modes, the game also has a three-point contest and a new-to-the-genre slam-dunk competition. The three-point tournament requires quick reflexes: You match a rising cursor with a "hot zone" that shrinks as the competition goes on - mildly fun, if a bit on the easy side. Oddly, the size of that "hot zone" isn't determined by a player's season shooting stats, which would've made more sense. The slam-dunk competition is a disappointment, as success depends on memorizing and regurgitating random button sequences. It would've been more appealing if it injected reflex-testing gameplay into the mix.
This game also delivers plenty of now-standard game options: everything from an extensive create-a-player menu to a choice of ball color so you can see it better. It also has updated 1999 NBA rosters, except for several notable late trades (such as game endorser Glen Rice's move to the Los Angeles Lakers).
The well-drawn graphics are perhaps the game's strongest point, especially in the dunks and instant replays. Nifty animations for knocked-down players and slingshot passes add visual flavor. Like the Nintendo 64 version, it offers a fully adjustable camera that zooms and tilts to offer the best view, which helps tailor the game to any gamer's preferences. While sparse, the stadium commentary by ex-Chicago Bulls announcer Ray Clay makes the grade.
However, no matter how good a game looks, it's the AI that makes or breaks a basketball game. Sadly, players will quickly see instances of gameplay suitable for a hoops-themed sequel of Dumb and Dumber. On fast breaks, the computer pulls up even though it has numbers. On scoring drives, the computer passes or freezes despite having a wide-open lane to the basket. The computer refuses to foul late in a game and goes for two points even though it needs three to tie - even during playoff games!
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