NFL 2K5 Hints & Tips
- One of the most exciting aspects of the game play is the passing game. Obviously, players will want to air it out, and the game does not disappoint. On the "regular" difficulty setting, a decent receiver will be able to beat most zone defenses.
Although it may not be realistic, deep bombs are a big part of NFL 2K5's passing game. If your receiver can get any sort of separation, a good throw is almost always caught. This is the case in the regular difficulty setting. If you raise the difficulty level to "All Pro" or "Legend," the defenses play much closer, causing more dropped passes or interceptions.
Players will often find that the passing game is more effective if you watch the routes closely. Receivers are very faithful to the routes in each play, and, as quarterback, a player reacts to "cuts" or "breaks" from a receiver and throws the ball at the right time, the wideout will get that moment of separation against even the toughest defenses and complete passes in tight coverage. The "practice" mode of the game (which is also available between games in franchise mode) is the best place to work out the timing with receivers.
Although it is unconventional, running an empty backfield in shotgun mode, which puts five wide receivers into play, is difficult for any defense to cover. This "spread" formation will usually mean at least one receiver is left uncovered. - Running in ESPN 2K5 is a little harder than in previous games, as the '05 version implements more reality-based moves. Changing direction causes the running back to stop momentarily to set the feet, setting him up to being tackled. However, players have found success with any team running around the ends (sweep plays) as opposed to running between tackles, which often means running into more bodies.
Never forget the importance of the stiff arm and the juke. Even against the best defenses, these are highly effective, and they usually benefit the runner with a few extra yards, if not creating a big gain. - Most players will find that making an impact defensively relies on the play of the linebackers and defensive line. A good defensive end or tackle can have a huge impact in the game because he can influence the play of the quarterback. A lineman who is able to gain penetration will trigger (at least when the opponent is in CPU mode) a quarterback to rush a throw. This will cause a number of overthrown balls, or better yet, tipped balls, which make an interception possible.
Running a blitz can run the risk of getting "burned" in a real football game. In NFL 2K5, running a blitz with your corners or safeties can be just as dangerous. A linebacker blitz, however, minimizes the risk and can be very effective, putting pressure on the quarterback without losing much coverage. - According to Gamespot.com, there are several cheat codes in the game. Most of these cheats do not alter the gameplay but do enhance the experience and extras built into it. Instead of entering your VIP name, enter "PhatBank" to gain 1 million crib credits, which can enhance your fantasy sports hangout. Entering "Cribmax" will make every crib item available. "Jizzief" will unlock all available fields and stadiums.
There are several "crib" extras that are unlocked by gaining certain achievements. Winning the Super Bowl in franchise mode will unlock an air hockey table for the crib. A player who is able to defeat a celebrity game challenge (celebrities include Jamie Kennedy and Carmen Electra) unlocks a custom field and stadium not otherwise available.