Game reviews: EA Cricket 2005 (Electronic Arts) – 42

I VIEWED THE ARRIVAL of this with mixed emotions, possibly because I’m a sad cricketing purist who has wiled away many years in fierce dice cricket competitions with other members of the urban raincoat brigade. Perhaps it’s also the fact that I played the bloody game for 15 years. But most likely it’s because most PC cricket games have been a bit like a quickie in a nightclub – fun, but lacking substance. [Eeuuugh! - Prudish Ed].

Cricket’s a ballet that’s about as suited to frenetic PC action gaming as Helen and Don are to NZ Idol. It’s a battle of wits, patience, as well as frustration – and that’s just watching the Black Caps. With today’s MTV generation, attention spans are measured in nanoseconds and most PC cricket games end up with the realism of a beer ad.

Based on this, I was a tad surprised with EA’s offering. Sure, I knew that the graphics and player animations would be primo. But despite the commentary managing to make the legendary Richie Benaud and Jim Maxwell sound like sloths on valium (if I want to hear mindless droning I’d tune into election coverage), the game’s atmosphere was sweet.

The realism also pleasantly surprised me. Play-wise, EA Cricket is a departure from most PC cricket games. It’s tough – especially when batting. Much like the real thing, unless Mills is bowling and it’s the final over, you can’t just walk out there and smack the ball over the ropes. Perseverance is rewarded with
increased batsman confidence, leading to better shots and timing.

Overall, EA Cricket 2005 has more depth than you’ll find in most PC cricket games, which is definitely a good thing. Both casual and discerning fans will likely be ready to invest the time required to master it. It’s not going to convert non-cricket fans – philistines! – but is a definite step forward.

Platform: PC

By Justin Purcell