Madden NFL 2000 - Nintendo 64

New additions to the fine Madden 99 game include faster yet less-detailed graphics, smoother animation, and additional onscreen treats such as goalpost nets, yard markers, and sidelines filled with coaches and teammates. One of the greatest new features is the hot route option, enabling players to change individual receiver routes at the line of scrimmage--it's like an audible, but doesn't require changing the entire play. More goals beyond just winning are here in the form of the Madden Challenge, giving players access to hidden stadiums and other goodies for successfully completing a series of increasingly difficult tasks, such as 30-plus yard receptions or a having a running back rush for over 100 yards in a game.

The artificial intelligence (AI) is still as slick as ever, but this game is best when played in two-player mode. Play-by-play commentary has been expanded for this game, but remains a bit sparse. A word of warning: the arcade mode is still pretty heavy on simulations, so only veterans or players who enjoy a steep learning curve need apply. --Jeff Young

Pros: The hot routes option adds more depth of control Faster graphics keep the game moving along Improved running game makes for more balance between passing and running Cons: New player graphics are not very smooth Controls and play selection are tough to learn for novice gamers