Trent Dilfer, looking resplendent in his new Seahawk duds, hands the ball off to Shaun Alexander, who pounds through the line. A blitzing defensive linebacker throws out an arm as Alexander is going past, staggering the running back, but not stopping him as he pops a six-yard gain.

One of the more apparent new features of NFL Fever 2003, a Microsoft Games release for the Xbox, is the tackling dynamics. There are the bone-crunching hits (and you can never be sure who’s bones are getting crunched – in its season opener, the Rams lost Ricky Proehl on the opening kickoff as he delivered a crushing blow to the return man, and ripped up his shoulder), but the tackling and tackle breaking are more true to life.

Dre’ Bly picks off a pass and begins the 55-yard sprint to the end zone. While his run seems to be clear sailing, a play happens behind him that seals the touchdown scamper. A fellow defensive back tries to block a wide receiver, which in turn hurdles him, but does so in desperation and he loses his stride. Bly is long gone before the one threat to stop him can get close.

The game also features a bevy of classic teams, from the ’63 Bears to the ‘99 Rams. There are some notably absent teams, like the undefeated Dolphin team of the 70s. Remember the great Steelers teams that had a dominating stretch in the 70s? Nope, they aren’t here either. And while the players on the current rosters are all identified by name (player-generated characters notwithstanding), the players on the classic teams are identified only by number. That is unfortunate.

When it comes to the announcing portion of the sound track, Ron Pitts provides the color commentary and does a solid job. Kevin Calabro does the play-by-play and has a few pet remarks (“I hear ya!”) that become an irritant through overuse. (Dick Stockton and Ron Pitts teamed up for the first release of the game.)

The game also features more in-depth team management, the ability to play online (when that aspect goes hot), and the latest uniforms, stadiums and players. Players on a human-controlled team can boost their player ratings through exceptional play. Conversely, their player rating can slip if they seem to be playing uninspired ball.

The control elements are the same as in the previous edition of the game, and are consistent with other top games in the genre.

The general graphical quality of this game is outstanding. Not only has great detail been made to the animation, but also the player rendering and environments are truly amazing. Lighting effects dancing across helmets, the interplay of shadows and authentic team uniforms are all part of the package. You can even see those little belt towels bouncing with each movement the players make. The facial animations are much like the previous year’s release, though some of the end-zone celebratory movements have been modified. Product placement has also changed in the post-game highlight reel.

NFL Fever is a terrific game. It does have a few flinches along the line of scrimmage, but once the ball is snapped, this game executes extremely well.

This game is rated for Everyone.

Gameplay: 8.9
The game flow is wonderful, and the interface allows players to get into the game quickly. The management modes will enable players to take total control of his or her team, or pass certain aspects off to the CPU.

Graphics: 9
The tackling dynamics have improved, as have the overall player movements. From skying defensive backs knocking down passes to running backs staggered while breaking through a would-be arm tackle, this game does an amazing job. The environments are a little staid (cheerleaders in the background are a little wooden), but the action is superb.

Sound: 7
The sound of pads popping is expected, Kevin Calabro’s clichés wear thin quickly, and the game doesn’t exactly stretch the boundaries of bringing the audio excitement of the NFL to the screen. If you have ever attended an NFL game, you will understand the excitement generated by the crowd.

Difficulty: Easy
The game interface makes jumping into this program easy. The AI makes it a challenge to play. Players can simply play the game – whether a single game, season or dynasty – or pick up that front-office hat and control many aspects of running a team.

Concept: 7.3
Introducing classic teams was a nice touch; not naming the players (for whatever reason) gives it a hollow feel. In the hearts of fans, they may know it is Willie Joe Namath back there in the pocket, but to hear “Namath back to pass” brings back fond memories, and can stir the football blood a bit more.

Multiplayer: 8.4
This game supports up to four players and will be supported online as well, with downloadable content. The game is very well done and fits the multiplayer mode of play nicely.

Overall: 8.9
The improved animations make this an amazing game to look at. The game does have a few minor flaws, but the overall product is fast-paced, and imminently enjoyable. This version is better than its previous incarnation.