ESPN NFL 2K5 , a football game with new features for the new season, is now available.
The game has a rich story mode, where you play through each quarter of every game and can relive your favorite moments. The ESPN presentation has been greatly expanded, featuring Chris Berman as the virtual commentator who introduces each game, gives half-time reports, and hosts post-game shows. Suzy Kobler also provides sideline reports.
One new feature is the V.I.P. system, which tracks how you play the game. If you pass 80% of the time and run 20% of the time, your V.I.P. profile will reflect this. Later, you can play against your V.I.P., with AI playing as if it were you.
A special 25th Anniversary Mode has been added to celebrate ESPN's 25th anniversary. This mode allows you to play moments from classic football games, including The Heidi Bowl and The Immaculate Reception.
The Crib has undergone an overhaul this year. Instead of earning specific items by completing tasks, you earn points that can be used to buy items of your choice. New features include a dart board and phone, which will allow you to answer calls from celebrities.
Franchise mode also gets an update with the ability to schedule weekly preps for your team. You can choose to have players work out, play practice games, watch tapes, all in preparation for the next game.
ESPN NFL 2K5 supports online play via Xbox Live and will receive roster updates in the future, keeping the game's content fresh even when you're not playing.