Hitting the field with 'NCAA Football 2005'
By Stephen Ryan
CNN Headline News
(CNN) -- Some people say college football is even more exciting than the NFL. EA Sports is out to test that theory with "NCAA Football 2005."
The name of the game says it all. It's EA's latest football endeavor with all the rah-rah rowdiness of college ball.
"NCAA Football 2005" has dozens of plays to choose from. But it's what happens after the snap that sets this game apart from others. Each player has the basic running and passing capabilities. But he or she also has an increased arsenal of moves to keep the game realistic.
Offensively, players can dive if the defense is closing in. They can also spin, jump and hurdle. Keep these moves in mind while playing because since the players can rock 'n' roll like the real deal, the game is as fast as the real deal.
Moves for passing and receiving are enhanced. In addition to standard throwing, players can pump their arms to simulate a fake throw. They can also throw the ball away in emergencies.
As for receiving, prepare to go all out. Players can dive, jump and even sprint for passes.
Football is nothing without a strong defense. And there is much more in "NCAA Football 2005" to defense than just a straight tackle.
Similar to offense, players can dive, except that when playing defense they're doing it in a last-ditch effort to make a tackle. They also can strip the ball, swat it and strafe if necessary.
For added oomph, "NCAA Football 2005" gives players the capability to make a "big hit" when timed correctly. The defensive line also has special moves.
"NCAA Football 2005" allows you to take a bigger role as coach. Before the snap, you can see how each player fares against the defense he is matched up against.
If things aren't stacked up to your liking, you can coach a squad during time-outs. When playing defense, you can calm down your secondary, linebackers or defensive line.
There's no reason a team shouldn't have the home field advantage, even in a game. EA weaves this age-old factor into "NCAA Football 2005." The home team can rally the crowd.
For example, lots of noise can make audibles and play calls hard to hear. The crowd's cheering for the home team can rattle less experienced players.
"NCAA Football 2005" also comes packed with game-enhancing features. You can create your own school to see how it compares with actual NCAA teams. The same goes for individual players -- you're not just limited to each school's roster. If you're a solid coach, one of the most beneficial features is "Create-A-Playbook," where you invent your own plays.
"NCAA Football 2005" is a great game for reminiscing, especially for recent college grads. The stadiums look just like each school's, and the players and uniforms do too. This game also has truly great graphics.
If you miss the pros though, EA still has you covered. "Madden NFL 2005" is slated for release on August 12.
