Madden NFL 2002 is a decent title that set the standard for handheld football games to come.
Developer: EA Sports
Game Genre: Football Sim
Opening Thoughts:
After fluking multiple titles on the Gameboy Color, EA Sports received another chance to redeem themselves on a handheld console with the release of the Gameboy Advance.
Gameplay (6/10)
The gameplay isn’t terrible this time around. I don’t think any of the GBC football games had better than a 2 rating. The game’s engine is a lot more solid, and the passing game is now possible. Running is also a lot easier, though it still has it’s problems. With two extra buttons (L and R) on the GBA, 4 receivers can be passed to, and in the running game, new moves are available, such as hurdling and protecting the ball.
The game modes are Play Now, Season and Playoffs.
Graphics (5/10)
Even with the graphical enhancements of the GBA, graphics are choppy and the lines on the field fluctuate and change shape. Players on the field change size, and it’s impossible to tell how far in the air the ball is, or if it’s even on the ground. However, it is easy to see where defenders are and where all of your receivers are, a big change from the GBC’s games.
Improvements (8/10)
Previous Games: Madden NFL 2000 (Gameboy Color) Madden NFL 2001 (Gameboy Color)
Durability (7/10)
This is a game that is worth playing if you have nothing else to do. I remember playing it on bus trips to basketball games. There isn’t too much frustration because you can now change difficulties and adjust game settings.
Overall Score (6.5/10)
Final Thoughts:
Madden NFL 2002 is a decent title that set the standard for GBA football titles to come.