EA Sports "Madden NFL '99™'

by Paul Moser sports editor

In the quest for the perfect video game football simulation, one should look no farther than "Madden '99." This game is as full of new goodies as John Madden's stomach is after Thanksgiving dinner. As far as realism goes, "Madden '99" is unmatched.

After a long delay and to everyone's surprise, "Madden '99" finally caught up to polygon technology. This technology allows the characteristics of the players to be more realistic, and for the most part, more visually appealing.

The fluid motion of the technology allows the players to come alive. From a tackle-breaking juke to a Terrell Davis "Mile High Salute," the realism and the graphics of the game are breathtaking.

However, as with any game that switches over to polygon technology, there will be some adjustments in play control. "Madden '99" does require a grace period of adjustment to game play as other EA sports games, such as "NHL '97" and "NBA Live '98," did when they switched over to polygon technology. However, you will find the growing pains well worth it once you get the hang of the new game control.