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The basic interface such as the starting menus give me the feeling somethings missing(while 04 looked like it had everything an NBA fan could want in a simulation). The animations are new and fresh but Live 2004 though the player models aren't as accurate the motion captured animations were much more believable than Live 05's. The players on the bench don't move, the lighting I think is litterally "off". This game is okay but lacks substance compared to it's predecessor Live 04. All-Star Weekend events are called by TNT's Ernie Johnson and Kenny Smith.
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One of the sport's most famous announcers, Marv Albert, resumes his place behind the NBA Live mic, joined by his regular play-calling partner, Mike Fratello. Gamers who decide to take complete control of their teams in this mode will manage a great variety of franchise functions, from game plans and scheduling to salary requirements and trades. Offering far more than a weekend of stunts and tricks, however, NBA Live still presents a full-featured simulation of the entire NBA season, or even as many as 25 seasons, in the returning Dynasty Mode.
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The last ability helps support the game's new "All-Star Weekend" mode, which allows players to take part in a virtual re-creation of the league's annual, mid-season celebration, which is highlighted by the slam-dunk contest and three-point shot competition. The game's new "Freestyle Air" features allow gamers to take control of their NBA players in mid-flight, to block shots, score tip-in rebounds, and perform stylish dunks. As NBA Live moves into its "2005" season, the gameplay above the rim takes center stage.
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