"If It's In The Game, It's In The Game

Sports games on computer are somewhat of an enigma. They've always been around, but for as long as they've been available, the popularity of sports games on console has pushed PC sports games to the backburner somewhat. In the past, the reason was obvious: sports games are more of a "party entertainment" feature, and it made more sense to play them on console because TVs are bigger than monitors, and it was easier to get multiplayer games going. Now that online multiplayer gaming has really taken off, perhaps now is the time for PC sports games to gain some ground on their console cousins. After all, the PC versions of all these games have unarguably, the best graphics and sound capability.

On top of the world

Everyone knows that Electronic Arts has dominated the sports game market for the last few years. By and large, they get the most pro endorsement deals, and overall have the best sports line out there. At this year's E3, Electronic Arts' booth was not surprisingly, dominated by EA Sports. Upon entering the convention hall, EA Sports was the first thing you saw, front and center - all the other EA properties like Maxis, Bullfrog, Westwood, etc., were scattered around the periphery of the booth area. Though this seems like a travesty to many PC game players, the fact remains that EA Sports games are a real cash cow.

Which games are for PC?

Though many of the EA Sports games are console only, the primary ones are still playable on PC, which can show off the best graphics out of all the platforms. Triple Play 2000 is already out, so let's take a closer peek at the upcoming sports titles from EA like NBA Live 2000, NHL 2000, Madden 2000, FIFA 2000, (notice a pattern yet?) Formula 1 Championship, and Master Big Game Hunter. All of these titles are due out fall of this year (Sept/Oct), except for F-1, which is set for winter (Nov/Dec).