PixlBit | NFL Blitz is a franchise with an interesting history. Going from being an actual NFL-licensed property with a relatively deep strategic angle, to an unlicensed product that seemed like it was truly gunning for ESPN’s highly-supported television drama, “Playmakers,” Blitz: The League (as it was re-branded) attempted to take a more “realistic” approach to the concept of video game football. This “realism” included bone-shattering and skull-destroying injuries that could be inflicted upon players. Despite these changes, Blitz: The League found its way into my heart very quickly, eclipsing the merits of both its arcade and home console predecessors.
It seems now is the time to capitalise on a renewed acceptance of, dare we say it, the video game side of sports video games, and here are five classic arcade titles that really need to come back.
Sick and tired of only being given the choice of playing Madden when it comes to football video games? Westapo of Gaming Rebellion goes over two of his favorite non-Madden games that are still a ton of fun to play: Tecmo Super Bowl or the NES and NFL Blitz for PS3/Xbox 360. Both games hold up remarkably well.
When NFL Blitz rebooted under EA Sports in 2012, with the franchise's creator back on the case, it lacked nearly all of the oomph that made the 1997 original so appealing, even to non-sports fans. No late hits, no over-the-top bodyslams. Quarterbacks weren't really sacked so much as they were shoved to the ground. Receivers were hip-checked and stumbled to the turf.
Exit to the home screen, go to help and options, select settings, select gameplay settings, and then turn on icon passing.
You may want to revisit the game with the icon passing on because it really does change the game for the better.