GameSpot editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 09/25/1997
- Updated on: 04/28/2000
- Released on: 07/31/1997
- Originally published on GameSpot: NFL GameDay '98 (PlayStation) Review
After two years of sprite-based 32-bit football games, many believed it wasn't possible to create a fully 3D PlayStation football game without making tremendous sacrifices in gameplay or aesthetics. NFL GameDay '98 is proof that the PlayStation is capable of accomplishing such feats.
An emphasis was clearly placed on improving GameDay's graphics, and the results are groundbreaking. By using polygonal players, GameDay's development team could take better advantage of motion capture, resulting in a variety of moves that lend a realistic edge to the game. Stiff-arming, horizontal jukes, tight-roping the sidelines, and over-the-top dives are only part of the large repertoire. These fancy 3D graphics aren't perfect, however. The polygonal players look a little too blocky, even though some of their rough spots are hidden well by textures. Luckily, they are animated so well it makes these blemishes easy to overlook. After all, GameDay '98 features the first tackles where players actually wrap their arms around each other to make a tackle.
Audibly, GameDay is above average. The requisite grunts and crunches are plentiful, and there's a nice, satisfying "whap!" when a successful stiff-arm levels a defender. The stadium announcing is good, but not as effective as the two-man Madden/Summerall combo in Madden 98. One funny detail is that there are a few different voices for the quarterbacks. Some sound deep and tough, while barking orders at the line of scrimmage, while some sound utterly wimpy.
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