Bargain price for a blockbuster game

ESPN NFL 2K5" is yet another quality foray into the pro football genre from Sega, and for less than 20 bucks you can own a football game that is both fun to play and has unbelievable graphics.\nGameplay remains intact from last year, but "2K5" adds numerous bells and whistles into the mix. One feature is its profile system that tracks everything about your game, right down to your offensive and defensive sets and plays called. Profiles can then be downloaded for scouting online opponents. Another aspect is the VIP profile system that gives out points for various accomplishments on the field. These points can then be spent on improvements to your "crib." C-list celebrities such as Carmen Electra and Steve-O will also occasionally show up in your crib to challenge you to games. \nFranchise Mode is also greatly improved from last year's game, as you can now lay out the daily workouts for each of your players. If done correctly, your team prospers, if not, your team falters -- great stuff. \nGraphically, "2K5" hits you like a blindside sack from Brian Urlacher and is simply gorgeous. The player models are works of art and are so detailed that you can see the veins on players' arms. The first person mode is simply ridiculous, as it comes complete with blackouts when someone lays down a huge hit on you. If you've ever played football, memories will come flooding back with each crack of the helmet.\nWhile it's ridiculously cheap price tag may fool some into believing this game is simply a rickety rehash of last year's installment, make no mistake, this is a wonderfully good time and a graphical masterpiece.