While "NFL 2K3" still has slightly better graphics, Madden's updated controls, the excellent franchise features and its heavenly tactical play make it one of the best sports games ever to grace the PS2.

One brave new inclusion is a first-person mode. Step inside the helmet of the quarterback and attempt to play the game through his eyes. There's a realistic claustrophobic sensation as the linemen pile through attempting that sack before you can launch the perfect pass to an open wide receiver.

The atmosphere of NBA Street is enhanced by an excellent soundtrack including hip-hop tracks from the likes of Nelly and Nate Dogg, plus various sound effects from the street - traffic, sirens, crowd abuse etc.

It's by far the most realistic game of its genre available - and that is likely to remain for some time to come.

The atmosphere of NBA Street is enhanced by an excellent soundtrack including hip-hop tracks from the likes of Nelly and Nate Dogg, plus various sound effects from the street - traffic, sirens, crowd abuse etc.

It's fast, furious and, whether you like basketball or not, fantastic fun.

Overall while it's actually quite fun it really is lacking in imagination, leaving it in the same league as many of its average competitors.

Apart from featuring a slightly dated roster of tennis stars, the only other drawback is the inability to play men against women - alas the Kournikova-Sampras clash will have to wait.

The atmosphere of NBA Street is enhanced by an excellent soundtrack including hip-hop tracks from the likes of Nelly and Nate Dogg, plus various sound effects from the street - traffic, sirens, crowd abuse etc.

If you already own the 2002 edition then there is possibly not enough that's new for you to part with your hard-earned cash.

The control system just isn't up to scratch and this makes passing the ball a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Its thrilling mix of visuals, dynamics handling and speed, together with a superb four-player split-screen, puts its rivals in the shade. Nothing else comes close, for now.

The controls are difficult to master at first - with the option of both front and rear brakes - but persistence is rewarded and within hours you will be hugging the fringe of a curve and finding the right racing line.

That, combined with the absorbing way the game draws you into the season, through neat animations and an impossibly stylish menu system, makes this the motor sport title to own - for purists and weekend drivers alike.

But the game does have drawbacks. The road to the top is a long one and things become repetitive long before you get the chance to glove up against "The Greatest". And training - which is essential to boost your power, stamina and chin - becomes a real chore.

But the game does have drawbacks. The road to the top is a long one and things become repetitive long before you get the chance to glove up against "The Greatest". And training - which is essential to boost your power, stamina and chin - becomes a real chore.

Knockout Kings 2001 had all the potential to strike a telling blow to all its competitors, but with below average gameplay, spending your hard-earned cash on this will hurt more than a Tyson uppercut.

The controls are difficult to master at first - with the option of both front and rear brakes - but persistence is rewarded and within hours you will be hugging the fringe of a curve and finding the right racing line.

Though not particularly hard, the gameplay feels realistic, and the differing heights of certain sections of routes, as well as the surface and weather conditions, give the gamer plenty to think about.

The arenas are superbly well done, with excellent layout and ultra smooth texturing.

And while "Pro Evolution Soccer" could well reclaim its place at the summit shortly, for now FIFA 2002 - both for playability and aesthetically - is the champion of football games.

If you like pure simulation stick with world number one Tiger Woods, but if you are ready for a wackier round of golf, let your favourite Italian plumber come to the fore.

The cars handle superbly well and you'll soon realise there's no better F1 game around than this - even Michael Schumacher would be happy.

The controls do take a while to learn - but an excellent tutorial helps you grasp the essentials fairly quickly.

If you like rock music to accompany your efforts, this has some of the best with even the Stone Roses lending their tracks.

True purists may prefer to look elsewhere for their hockey action, but those seeking a fast-paced, action-packed game are in for a real treat.

Personally I'd rather face 15 rounds with Mike Tyson than play this again.

Its gameplay is superb, the visuals excellent and the whole experience leaves you on the edge of your seat.