Sunday, 8 Sep 2024

2012 Sports Game of the Year Awards

As we near the end of this console generation, sports game sequels continue to make minor adjustments to their gameplay. But there are a few standout titles that have made significant changes to their franchise modes. Let’s take a closer look at the best sports games of the year.

Best Career Mode: NBA 2K13

The best single-player experience for sports fans can be found in NBA 2K13. With the ability to earn Virtual Currency in any game mode, players can create an impactful player right from the start. The AI is also smarter, utilizing you properly when you’re off the ball. But it’s off the court where this mode truly shines. From post-game press conferences to managing endorsement deals and tracking followers on Twitter, NBA 2K13’s MyCareer mode gives you a taste of what it feels like to be a franchise player.

Best Franchise Mode: FIFA 13

FIFA 13 takes the crown for the best franchise mode. It goes above and beyond by creating immersive storylines that make your franchise feel alive. Unhappy players publicly voice their concerns, the press takes notice of your transactions, and broadcasters comment on your roster changes. What sets FIFA 13 apart is the inclusion of an international assignment, giving you two rosters to manage.

Best Multiplayer: FIFA 13

FIFA 13 not only excels in single-player modes but also offers a top-tier multiplayer experience. This year’s installment introduces the popular Seasons format to Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs. The Pro Clubs have been split into Online Pro and Career Pro to prevent cheating, and new accomplishments provide more ways to improve your player stats. Most importantly, the network stability is unmatched.

Best Presentation: NBA 2K13

When it comes to presentation, NBA 2K13 takes the lead. While FIFA is catching up in this aspect, NBA 2K13 still reigns supreme. The broadcast team of Kevin Harlan, Clark Kellogg, and Steve Kerr has fantastic chemistry, and the commentary is seamlessly integrated. The broadcast-quality stat infographics and replay camera angles are also unparalleled.

Best New Feature: Connected Careers – Madden NFL 13

Madden NFL 13 introduced the Connected Careers mode, a solid foundation for the future of the franchise. This mode offers the same experience whether playing offline or online, a significant step forward. The RPG-style player/coach progression system is a great addition, and the Twitter feed that provides news about your virtual league adds depth to the experience.

Best Gameplay: Pro Evolution Soccer 2013

Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 continues to impress with its gameplay. The additions to the control system, particularly in quick and effective movements after the first touch, create a more fluid and rewarding playing experience. The game rewards creative play and precise ball placement.

Biggest Disappointment: GM Connected – NHL 13

Unfortunately, NHL 13’s GM Connected mode fell short of expectations. Prospect management, player contract negotiations, and AI team decisions all left much to be desired. Slow and clunky menus further undermined the online franchise experience. This disappointment was even more profound due to the ongoing NHL lockout.

Sports Game of the Year: FIFA 13

FIFA 13 takes the crown as the best sports game of the year. With its outstanding on-pitch performance, addicting franchise mode, and robust online options, FIFA has secured the top spot for the second consecutive year. The improved player AI, complete dribbling control, and skill-based first touch variation add excitement and unpredictability to the game.

FAQs

Q: Which sports game had the best single-player experience?
A: NBA 2K13’s MyCareer mode offers the best single-player experience for sports fans.

Q: What sets FIFA 13’s franchise mode apart from the competition?
A: FIFA 13’s franchise mode immerses players in immersive storylines and allows them to manage both their club and an international assignment.

Q: What improvements were made to FIFA 13’s multiplayer modes?
A: FIFA 13 introduced the popular Seasons format to Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs, improved stability, and added new accomplishments to enhance the multiplayer experience.

Q: Why is NBA 2K13 praised for its presentation?
A: NBA 2K13’s broadcast team, commentary integration, and high-quality visuals make it the leader in presentation.

Q: What was the biggest disappointment in NHL 13?
A: NHL 13’s GM Connected mode fell short of expectations with issues related to prospect management, player contracts, AI team decisions, and clunky menus.

Conclusion

The 2012 Sports Game of the Year Awards highlighted the best sports games across various categories. NBA 2K13 impressed with its career mode, FIFA 13 excelled in its franchise and multiplayer modes, and Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 showcased outstanding gameplay. While NHL 13’s GM Connected mode disappointed, FIFA 13 ultimately emerged as the Sports Game of the Year for the second year in a row.