NCAA Football 2004 for GameCube offers gamers the chance to engage in classic college football rivalries like Michigan vs. Ohio State, USC vs. Notre Dame, and Oklahoma vs. Nebraska, but unfortunately falls short in its execution. While the game introduces online head-to-head exhibition games, the experience is marred by a lack of seamless connectivity and limited functionality. The potential for engaging in spirited banter by chatting or singing fight songs with EA SPORTS Talk is an enticing feature, but its implementation is lackluster.
One redeeming aspect of NCAA Football 2004 is the inclusion of new trick plays, such as the Halfback Throwback and Wide Receiver Double Reverse Pass. These maneuvers add a layer of excitement and strategy to the gameplay, giving players a chance to outwit their opponents. Additionally, the game introduces new animations that enhance the visual experience, with sideline tackles, stumbles, and user-controlled celebrations adding a sense of realism.
The inclusion of a new QB Rollout camera allows players to better observe their receivers, while the Play-Action Pass camera adds an element of deception to trick the defense. These camera angles enhance the gameplay and provide a fresh perspective, elevating the overall experience.
NCAA Football 2004 also caters to the nostalgic crowd by offering a College Classics mode, allowing players to relive 20 of the greatest college football games from the last two decades. Whether it's celebrating a glorious victory or rewriting history with an upset, this mode is a trip down memory lane that fans of the sport will appreciate.
In terms of team selection, the game boasts an impressive roster of over 150 teams, including 36 new 1-AA teams and classic teams like 1930 Notre Dame, 1956 Oklahoma, 1972 USC, 1985 Auburn, and 2002 Ohio State. This wide array of options adds depth and variety to the gaming experience, ensuring there's a team for every player's preference.
One area where NCAA Football 2004 shines is in the Dynasty mode. Players can project the season's top performers with the new Pre-Season All-American Team and relish in their weekly accomplishments by gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine. This mode provides a sense of achievement and progression, allowing players to leave their mark on the virtual college football world.
Overall, while NCAA Football 2004 for GameCube offers some enjoyable features and a nostalgic feel, it falls short in certain areas that hinder the overall experience. Gamers looking for a truly immersive and seamless online experience may find themselves disappointed, but those seeking a taste of classic college football action will still find moments of enjoyment in this title.