I picked it up yesterday, and I tell you what the game is sheer fun. Control of your players is head over heels better than madden (which i also have). The first person mode is pretty exciting the first few times you play it, but it quickly wears off after you get frustrated by the lack of visibility. I just don't think football games were meant to be played in first person. It's a great add-on, but definitely not the way of the future. The ESPN presentation is excellent, with pretty good commentary. I think the overall look of the game is better than Madden too. There's some amazing detail in the players, and there are some extremely realistic animations for a whole slew of tackles. The addition of the "Crib" is a lot of fun too, filling your room/house/apartment with goodies you've earned.
It's really a close toss-up. I love Maddden and it's extensive owner mode. Plus I really miss playmaker when I'm playing ESPN NFL 2K4. However, NFL 2K4 is a great football experience. Both visually and in execution. It's a tough choice, which is why I own both. Rent them at your local video store first, if you can. I really can't whole heartedly recommend either one, they're both great football games.
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