Cricket 2004 (PS2)
This unique cricket game gives you the chance to experience playing cricket from county matches, all the way up to trying to win the Ashes or the World Cup.
Gameplay: 84%
This game is
a great replica of the many different forms of cricket, from limited over
games all the way up to test matches. You start out by selecting the team
you want to be, (which can range from county sides all the way up to the
major world test sides) and the length of match, which can be 10, 20 or 50
overs, or even 4 or 5 day test matches.
You
have the option to amend your starting eleven players; but I just tend to
pick the default teams. Each player has its own individual stats, with the
batsmen’s stats including how good he is at attacking or defensive shots,
and how well he can play different types of bowlers (fast or spin etc). The
bowler’s stats range from their style of play, accuracy and stamina etc.
Playing the game is fun. Bowling is hard to begin with but gets easier with practice. You pick the area you want the ball to aim at, and select how much spin and speed you want. Batting can be hard, as you have to select your shot carefully if you want to have a decent innings.
Graphics:
82%
The graphics
are good enough but nothing special. The cricket grounds and the players are
pretty good; however the crowd graphics look a bit weird and flat, and could
be improved a lot! When playing matches though, the bowlers, batsmen and
fielders look good and move in a realistic way.
Sound:
86%
For a game
that doesn’t really need fantastic sound, it is actually very good. This is
partly due to the excellent commentary from Richie Benaud, which has a lot
of variety and isn’t too repetitive. The crowd sounds are timed well with
the volume rising as the bowler makes his run-up to bowl.
Value:
89%
This game has
a good lifespan because there are a good number of match lengths, and if you
were to start a season long championship it wouldn’t get boring.
Conclusion:
Cricket 2004
is a great game if you like cricket. With all the different game options
from quick short matches to longer test matches there is something here for
everyone. The longer matches can take quite a while compared with other
sports games on the PS2 e.g. football matches (especially if they are a bit
one sided) but overall, this cricket game rises to the challenge in
comparison with other sports games.
Overall Score: 85%