When it comes to presentation, 989 Studios has the technique down pat, and the opening intro of Gameday 2001 shows us why once more. Featuring the classic voice of NFL films and amazing hits perfectly cheorgraphed to the rocking music, not to mention a narration that wouldn't be out of place in any theatrical play, it's hard not to get excited about playing a game like this. When it comes to the actual in game graphics, it becomes a mixed bag. All of stadiums in the game are rendered flawlessly, with visible landmarks when visiting some of the bigger cities in the league. Unfortunately, the graphics for the players and the rest of the game are just too bland for my liking. While they do their job just fine, it's apparent that 989 could have done a better job with the textures and the player models so that the game keeps up with Madden 2001. Another problem I have with the game is the inconsistent framerate. It might be me, but the framerate in Gameday 2001 jumps up and down more than a cheerleader at a frat party, and that isn't good, especially in a game that demands precise control.

As far as the audio goes, the commentary is probably the best you're going to find on the PlayStation. Phil Simms and Dick Enberg rarely miss any of the action on the field, and I haven't heard much repetition from them as well. What's really annoying is the lack of any enthusiasm from the crowd itself. With the sound clips that 989 has used, it seems that they just took it from the age old PS graphics library and plopped it into the game. The result is that the excitement and intensity seen in Madden and NFL2K1 is non-existent in Gameday 2001.

But what's a football game without the football, right? Personally, I find that the Gameday series is a whole lot easier to get into than Madden, but it unfortunately lacks the depth that EA Sports' flagship series does. Personally, I really like the fast paced action of Gameday rather than the slow, monotonous tone of the Madden series. Believe me, GameDay is played real fast. Every facet of the game is jacked up so that it really does feel like you're in the game. This is especially true once you execute your first run play and notice how hectic it can get. The play selection for each team is decent, although I would've liked more variety in my formations (I think NFL2K1 is spoiling me), what we're given with each team is more than adequate to run a sufficient offense ... if the defense wasn't so air tight. Unfortunately for those who are unfamiliar with 989's patented Total Control Passing (seening in NBA Shootout and Gameday), you'll face a hard time with your passing game, as the computer is extremely good at intercepting passes. TCP makes it a whole lot better, but it's horrible that 989 Studios would make the game so unbalanced like this.

There are some real cool features that they added into this year's update, including a great telecaster, which runs after you complete a key play. The game goes into replay mode with Phil Simms and Dick Enberg utilizing the magic pen to outline how the play unfolded into the big break. Another awesome feature is the ability to draft college players straight out of NCAA Gamebreaker 2001, giving you just one more reason to get another football game.

Despite it's shortcomings, NFL GameDay 2001 is an extremely fun game to play, and offers a great alternative to those who aren't too weaned on the Madden series. Although the visuals aren't what they could have been, and the gameplay can be questionable at times, 989 Studios has left the PlayStation on a high note with GameDay 2001, and here's hoping that their success will continue on the PS2.

Bottom Line: If you only have a PS and can't stand Madden, this will give you something to attach yourself to.

· · · Reno