The Madden series is by far the most popular NFL console-game franchise in North America. It is the game of choice among many active and former NFL players, and has been a mainstay on most gaming platforms for close to a decade. And this year's version for the PlayStation, Madden NFL 2001, is amazing--it's even better than the incredible Nintendo 64 version of the same name. In terms of playability, EA Sports has added some nice new features. Players are rewarded with collectable in-game Madden Cards by performing certain tasks, which can be used to unlock secret game codes, players, stadiums, and legendary NFL teams. Also, you can trade those cards with friends using the PlayStation memory card. Enhancing the replayability of Madden NFL 2001 is a new two-minute drill feature that allows up to 10 players to compete for the highest score.
The game does have a couple of trouble areas. The CPU play isn't all that synched with the gameplay, resulting in some very strange calls and plays. John Madden's commentary is stocked with only a few phrases, which are used ad nauseam. While not perfect, the sound effects and crowd noises are still preferable to the whiny blips of the N64 version. --Todd Mowatt
Pros:
- Collectable Madden Cards can be used to unlock secret game codes, players, stadiums, and teams
- New two-minute drill feature
Cons: - CPU sometimes makes very strange calls and plays
- Repetitive Madden phrases
