NBA Live 2005 Review (no fat)

Game Description

The NBA franchise is one of the significant members of the EA Sports game stable and has always been a showcase of innovations and technological advances. While the core of all game simulations is the game and the rules that bind it, the NBA series pack in a lot of punch via umpteen customization options and brilliant player moves that can be unleashed with the flick of an analog stick.

NBA Live 2005 brings great basketball simulation to the Xbox. The patented Freestyle Control offers a whole array of player controls that bring in break neck speeds in passing, incredible dribbling moves and some breathtaking slam dunk action. Bank on the cult status of basketball players and enhance showmanship with a wide range of hairstyles and gears to choose from. Incredible rendition of player faces forms the ultimate icing of this cake.

The degree of realism on court and in the playability department make this a serious revision on EA sports part rather than a old wine, new bottle approach. Well implemented game modes guarantee repeated play and will keep you glued to your controls for a long time.

While most franchises lack innovation once they are a few releases old, this game comes out tops. Fresh content will make even seasoned gamers happy with this title.

NBA Live 2005 Gameplay

A long time ago, basketball games were just about grabbing the orange orb and tossing it into the basket. Sprites moved around like puppets and the overall ambience was static and devoid of any life. The evolution of gaming has brought a high degree of realism and playability and NBA Live 2005 showcases the growth of technology very effectively.

From the hysteric fans in the stands to players fighting for space and spotlight in the center, the action is non stop. Gamers aren't restricted in any way and EA Sports generously provides a plethora of customization options that can further extend the life of the game and bring forth a unique experience each time you venture out. Player customizations include a change in hairdo, slipping on a designer jersey and some great looking shoes, all via an intuitive interface. This allows you to give your favorite players a nice makeover. Customization doesn't end there as you can even design your own courts.

The right analog stick will become your best buddy in this game as you use it effectively unleash some jaw dropping moves on court. Flick it in any of the 45 degree options and your player performs a different action. Combined with the modifier buttons, the right analog stick offers limitless possibilities that make dribbling, dunking, and everything in between, very interesting and innovative.

Overall, the controls are a breeze. You will have no problems in getting used to them. Sprite behavior is effective and very responsive… sparing you some embarrassing moments. Barring a few AI quirks, you'll find that the computer opponents are pretty formidable and can launch an impressive offence or defense. What's more, you can now control player behavior off court too instead of relying on default animated sequenced.

The gaming modes add depth to the game and range from Dynasty Mode where you accumulate your team and play games to build your franchise, to the brilliant Dunk Contest that tests your skills to the limits. The game has scope for online play too if you want to take the action beyond your box. However, not all the modes are close to reality, the Dunk Contest being the most arcade-ish… then again, who cares for reality if you can pull off better moves than the NBA stars themselves.

NBA Live 2005 Graphics

Impressive, well detailed and interactive graphics are among the strengths of this game. The players are well rendered as well. Realistic movements of animate and inanimate objects, innovative use of lighting and shading make this game as attractive as it's playable.

NBA Live 2005 Audio

The commentary is funny in parts but tends to get monotonous as you drone on for long games. However, the sound effects are good and create the real feel so much sought after by fans. The background scores aren't among the best but they do the job with loud and solid jams.

NBA Live 2005 Summary

NBA Live 2005 is a major step forward for this franchise and features a slew of customization and gameplay options that make this a title worth owning. A revised graphics engine brings a major degree of realism to the action and re-mapped controls make the game easy and less complicated to play. Gaming modes are designed to explore every aspect of the game and then some. Even as the NBA Live series has never been known for close to reality games, the player's look, move and feel as real as you’d expect from the franchise.

All in all, NBA Live 2005 has enough new content to justify its tag as a new release. The developers tap into the Xbox's capabilities and create a very good game. Basketball fans and Xbox console owners can enjoy a great experience with this realistic simulation from EA Sports. A great buy.

NBA Live 2005 Cost

NBA Live 2005 retails at $14.99.