Here is my review for you Playstation owners out there that are
unsure about the game "In the Zone."
This game is reminiscent of the arcade game "Run N' Gun", except the
players are not animated sprites but more Tekken esque. Meaning
every player on the court is made of texture maps and polygons. It is
a five on five game, like the arcade Run N' Gun but gameplay is
faster. The gameplay is as fast as Tekken, the players seem to pause
for a split second before shooting or passing, meaning don't expect
the game to be the speed of NBA JAM. It has a NBA license so all the
teams and names are there. This game is arcade basketball rather
than a simulation so players looking for a simulation may not enjoy
this game as much as arcade players. Because this is an arcade type
game there is no substitution or player fatique, although stats and
player comparisions are made after every quarter. Many people have
already complained about this, but considering the gameplay and
graphics I feel it more than makes up for it. There are instant
replays after every basket with a adrenaline pumped announcer
making comments. People have said that this disorients them from
the game and could do without it, but I happen to like it if you are
playing a human opponent it just gives you another chance to gloat.
The game has virtually no load time, which is a plus for me, I hate
looking at a loading screen. Sound, control, and graphics are all above
average.
The downside of this game is that there is no season, you are given the
choice of Exhibition or Playoffs. Even with an NBA license some
players are missing Jordan, Shaq, etc . . . I guess Konami couldn't get
a few million to pay these guys.
All in all this is a great basketball game on a home system, I'm
surpirsed they didn't release it in the arcades first.
I would give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

- Richard Lowe