There are some promising base features in place from a gameplay, conceptual and presentation standpoint, but it's still not where it needs to be.
NHL 18 is another strong entry from an underrated sports gaming franchise. EA has delivered a more rewarding franchise mode, added new ways to play, while at the minimum, sustaining itself in other modes. That's a formula for success, but the lack of progress in customization, single-player modes and presentation keep it from being a monumental step for the franchise.
It may not get all the hoopla that more popular titles in the genre receive, but F1 2017 is one of the most complete sports video games released in awhile.
This is a really good football game that you will probably enjoy, but you will also likely still have some gripes. Madden 18 takes noticeable steps in gameplay and depth, but it's still teasing us with true greatness.
The gameplay and options are on an elite level in TGC 2, but the graphics and presentation are still a step behind.
If you have been a fan of the Dirt series prior to this release, you'll be happy with this game. If you're new to the series but have played other racing games, you'll likely find some things you like and others you don't. However, it's hard to imagine any gamer with a taste for racing titles finding major fault with Dirt 4.
This is a fully licensed two-on-two NBA arcade title that does most things right. It'll be interesting to see what's in store for fans of the game via updates, patches, and DLC.
While there are some real qualities in OTH, the deficiencies in gameplay and relatively low replay value make it a hard sell even for the virtual hockey fan who is looking for a knock-down, drag-out, arcade hockey title.
All things considered, it's difficult to recommend RBI 17 to any demographic. No matter what box you have the game in, there's a superior version to be found elsewhere in each concept.
The Show is still striving for perfection, but if you love baseball and video games, you need this in your life.
As it is, Disc Jam is a great and interesting concept that leaves you wanting more. Just as quickly as you gain an affinity for the game, you can also get bored with it once you realized there just isn't a lot to offer. Even with the obvious shallowness, Disc Jam is worth your time.
Aside from some nagging and egregious legacy issues, WWE 2K17 is really good. The game delivers where it counts most: graphics, gameplay and options. This is easily the best wrestling release in over a decade.
Ever listen to a hip-hop album that is laced with incredible production, but the MC's lyrics and delivery are hit and miss? Mafia III is the video game equivalent to that analogy. The folks in charge of the presentation, script and story have done a bang-up job. Clay's quest for revenge is enough to keep your attention throughout. If you approach Mafia III as an interactive journey, then you probably won't have any issue with it overall. If you're looking for a fully fleshed out title akin to GTA, then Mafia III could come off as a shallow release.
Aside from the missing customization, this is easily the best and most complete FIFA ever. There are other areas with minor issues, but nothing worthy of mentioning in the negatives section. Tightened gameplay, improved visuals and The Journey make this a monumental achievement in the series and it reestablishes the series as the King of the Pitch, yet again.
The entertaining racing delivers a good foundation for the series, but there’s just not enough depth in this package to consider this a complete experience.
NBA 2K’s depth continues to set the bar for the genre. Like always, NBA 2K17 is several games within one. However, the amalgamation of modes delivers an especially tight package this year.
The mission has been accomplished for one half of the aforementioned vast target demographic, but the other half may still have eyes for FIFA 17.
With some new depth, the already strong NHL series has remained solid. The product on the ice is great in almost every aspect, but the feature set could still stand to add layers.
F1 2016 succeeds where many racing titles fail because it effectively weaves in some personality to accent the hardcore racing details and car mechanics. The gameplay is phenomenal and the presentation is the main positive that drives the aforementioned personality.
Madden 17 scores in many ways, and there’s more to like than there is to hate, but we can’t ignore the flags on the field. Gameplay, presentation and customization have taken strides, but there’s still work to do.