Superb visual presentation is Championship Football's major feature, with the action
displayed via an unusual 'through the helmet' 3D view. The player becomes involved
in every play, whether attacking or defensive, taking a central role in the
proceedings. This arcade-orientated action is complemented by a strategy section
involving the planning of offesnive and defensive moves.
Initially, two teams are chosen from the 28 provided, and the duration of each
quarter is set at either four or seven minutes. With these parameters set, the
match begins.
The screen is split into three display areas. The largest shows match details such as
score, time elapsed, timeouts and the ball's position, while the others contain a
comprehensive and extensive list of offensive and defensive plays.
At the beginning of an offensive play the user scrolls through the list and
chooses a manoeuvre. The screen displays a view through the player's helmet and the
computer quarterback yells instructions - although the speech is grating and somewhat
garbled (a bit like a Dalek with matbles in his voice-box).
When play begins, the player
uses the joystick to follow a series of arrows at the bottom of the screen - failure
to comply results in a swift tackle or incomplete pass.
Defensive plays are chosen in the same way, although the player doesn't partake
in the action and is forced to watch from an offensive player's viewpoint often
a nail-biting situation.
Other moves, including the kick-off, punt and 'extra point plays' are also executed
in the first person with the player taking the role of receiver or kicker. When the
opponent is punting or going for a PAT, the player's job is to break through the
line and block the kick. Following each move, the screen reverts to the tri-display
and another is selected.
It must be stated this is an admirable attempt at an original idea, but unfortunately
there isn't quite enough freedom within the arcade sequences. Most moves are rigorously
dictated by the arrows, and there's very little variety in the moves that do allow
the player a free reign.
Having said that, there's an excellent tactical simulation
in there, appreciated best when two humans are toggling the joysticks. Try it first
before exchanging any cash.
Julian Rignall
