NBA Live 2004.(evaluation of video game)(Product/Service Evaluation)

BRYAN: Last season's impressive Live showing breathed new life into the stagnant series, and its path down the comeback trail continues with superior on-court control. The new "Pro Hop" jump-step move makes driving through the lane easier and flashier, and you can now alter your shot midflight to avoid getting stuffed. Other well-designed additions include separate controller commands for performing dunks, layups, and long-range jumpers, and the ability to quickly switch to an off-the-ball player by pushing the R3 button.

The improvements don't stop there, as this year's edition addresses 2003's problem of being too darn arcadey. Don't worry, you can still run-and-gun …