The spirit of Saturday afternoon

If you are one of those people who need to relive the excitement and spirit of a Saturday afternoon football game anytime you want, then EA Sports' NCAA College Football 2004 is the right game for you. The game offers some of the most realistic college action on the market, including real fight songs. Employing the traditions of these afternoon classics, it is a can't-miss. \nThe game offers more than five alternate modes aside from the standard game play. One is a practice mode, which helps you perfect your playing skills. Another cool feature is the mascot mode where all the players on a team are dressed in the mascot uniform -- for instance, when playing as Notre Dame in mascot mode all 11 players are leprechauns. There even is a classic game mode where you can decide the outcome on some of college football's most historic and exciting games. \nThe action is fast-paced, and the scores are as out of control as a runaway fullback. The tension can almost be felt during a rivalry game for the pride of a state, and option-style football along with trick plays make for a twist in every game. No real breakthroughs have been made in the graphic department since previous college football games, but with smoother motions and a huge collection of tackles, the game keeps your interest. The game could be better, but it could be worse too.