This number one sports game easily beat out Punchout! Blades of Steel, and Double Dribble without even breaking a sweat! So, for those of you who still don't know about the hottest gridiron action around, strap on your helmet and tighten your cleats, 'cuz it's CRUNCHTIME!!
Apr 28, 2010 Tecmo Bowl Throwback for Xbox 360 game reviews & Metacritic score: TECMO BOWL THROWBACK brings back the gameplay you loved, and stays true to the Tecmo Super Bowl legacy! Challenge friends in online multiplayer mode in either t.
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Tecmo Bowl is a faithful adaptation of the monster four-man arcade hit of the same name. It retains all the fast action, fun graphics, and excellent playability of the arcade version, but adds a couple of unique features that separate it from its predecessor.
Tecmo Bowl for the NES features three different play modes: One Player, Two Player, and Coach Mode. In the Coach Mode you're the big kahuna of your team as you call the plays and watch the computer battle it out against your opponent. You can focus all your attention on a surefire winning strategy, and if the play lays an egg on the field you can always blame your players!
This game is endorsed by the NFL Players Association so you get to play with the actual squads of your favorite NFL teams! Become Jerry Rice and catch a game-winning long bomb, or slip into Lawrence Taylor's shoes and go for the blitz! The players onscreen actually perform as well as their real-life counterparts. For example, Indianapolis' Albert Bentley doesn't cut against the green as well as Los Angeles' Bo Jackson. Having the actual NFL players' names and talents at your fingertips adds a touch of realism that you just can't get from other NES football games!
It's Not Regulation, But It's Close...
Tecmo Bowl has several characteristics that separate it from professional football. You'll immediately notice that time is extremely limited in this game. Quarters are only FIVE minutes long and you have NO time outs. In fact, the game clock ticks down at such a haphazard rate that it's essential to keep an eye on it. Don't worry about balancing your running and passing plays -- always go for the score!
ProTip: Take your time when you're on offense. The ball clock doesn't start running until after you hike the ball. Study the defense formation at your leisure and locate your receivers.
On Either Side of the Ball
Tecmo Bowl's only drawback is the lack of play options. There are only four offensive and defensive plays to select from. The patterns differ among the teams, but basically you can run left or right, and pass short or long. The most you can do to vary your play options is to run in the reverse direction, or option for a quarterback draw when the defense is wide open.
On offense, you'll need quick reflexes as you drop back into the pocket and select the open receiver. As soon as your QB releases the ball you become the chosen receiver and must maneuver into the path of the ball and fight for maximum yardage! Both the receivers and running backs have the ability to straight-arm oncoming tacklers and knock them aside for extra yardage.
- Immediately drop the quarterback back In order to have enough time to search out the open receiver.
- Repeatedly press Sutton A to straight-arm oncoming tacklers before making contact.
Select any one of the 11 defensive players to control before the offense hikes the ball. Unfortunately, you're stuck with your selected player throughout that play. Learn to recognize pass and run formations as best as you can or you'll eat dirt far away from the action! On defense, you're also able to stiff arm and throw aside opposing blockers. A well timed diving tackle enables you to take down any player, regardless of how big or how fast he's running.
If you want to make it to the Tecmo Bowl Championships it's essential that you have a great kicking game. A pulsating power meter controls how far you kick the football. Try to time your kick so that you nail a bomber each and every time.
Time it out when you kick off. Its best to press the button just as the meter passes the halfway mark.
A Video Hit!
Tecmo Bowl features large, clear characters that make it is easy to discern all the players on the field. The controls are very easy to learn and game-play is extremely responsive. A catchy theme song and attractive graphics during the half time show as well as close-ups of after-touchdown high fives add to the appeal of this video hit. A password feature enables you to put the game aside and continue your winning season whenever you like.
If you're ailing for fast-paced, arcade football action, Tecmo Bowl may be the perfect prescription for you! Although newer football games may have more features and better graphics, the appeal of Tecmo Bowl remains true.
Overall rating: 6.5