NBA Live 2005 E3 2004 Preshow Impressions

Get ready for another season of NBA Live. The 2005 edition features a new "Freestyle Control" system so you can bring your game to the boards. Players who can effectively box out and dominate the boards now get direct control to capitalize on offensive rebounds, with put-backs and tip-ins. On defense, this extra user control carries over to blocks.

NBA Live 2005 improves on the series in other ways, with improved motion capture and higher-resolution player graphics. The enhanced 10-man motion capture is designed to produce authentic off-ball motion, with plant and cut and backdoor moves, plus new in-air collisions and box outs. Marv Albert and Mike Fratello have signed on to dish out authentic commentary.

Getting deep into the game is just a matter of diving into the franchise and online modes. Build a dynasty over the course of 25 seasons in the franchise mode, jumping into some games with simulation intervention and dealing with the newly revised free-agent system, which tests your negotiating skills and ability to get the most out of your salary cap. The online play--again only available for the PlayStation 2--will let you match up against players across North America, set up tournaments, and download rosters.

NBA Live 2005 will be ready by the season's start in October.