EA Sports may have struggled with its interpretation of football, but when it comes to simulating American pursuits, the company is so on the ball it's scary. NBA Live 2004 is utterly exhaustive, dripping with options, stats and settings. You want an all-action face-off with no rules and a gameplay speed set somewhere near hyperspace? Man, if you take the time to navigate the in-game menus, it's yours - as is a simulation of such pinpoint accuracy most non-American gamers will be 20 points down before they're worked out how to make a pass.

Most impressive are the new freestyle moves which integrate so seamlessly with the hoop experience. Using the right analogue you an effectively feint, shimmy and guard the ball, probing the defence like a rather tall, muscular chess grand master until an opening appears. The two shot buttons - providing dunk, lay-up and shoot options - accentuate this creative freedom up front, allowing you to craft many more intricate scoring opportunities than in previous editions. All this will be lost on newcomers but the depth is there for when you begin to look beyond mere grab and chuck dunk fests.

This is slick basketball action, with real atmosphere and authority. Players looking for instantly approachable pick-up and lay-off action may be bewildered, especially veterans of NBA Jam. Those who want hoop reality, not dreams, can currently do no better.

Graphics 80%
Slick and smooth as you'd expect.

Sound 80%
Like the atmosphere of the real thing.

Gameplay 80%
All things to all players.

Lifespan 70%
NBA Live 2005, anyone?

Overall 80%
A comprehensive sim that grows with you. But those not in love with the real sport may remain stunted.