Cricket 96 vs Cricket 97: Ashes Tour Edition
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Cricket 96 is a cricket video game developed by Beam Software and published by EA Sports. The game was released in 1996 for PC and features various international teams and players. It offers a realistic cricket experience with different game modes and options.
Cricket 97: Ashes Tour Edition is a cricket simulation game developed by Beam Software and published by Electronic Arts. The game was released in 1997 for MS-DOS and features 3D graphics, realistic gameplay, and commentary by famous cricket players. Players can choose from various teams, including the Australian and English national teams, and compete in different modes, including Test matches and One-Day Internationals.
- Realistic gameplay and sound effects
- Multiplayer option for competitive gameplay
- Includes various international teams and players
- Customizable game settings and options
- Realistic gameplay mechanics
- Authentic teams and players
- Classic soundtrack and sound effects
- Multiplayer mode for competitive play
- Classic graphics may appear outdated
- Limited gameplay modes and options
- No online multiplayer option
- Limited game modes
- Graphics may appear dated
- No modern features or updates
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Alternatives to Cricket 96
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Alternatives to Cricket 97: Ashes Tour Edition
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are classic cricket sims from Beam Software, but Cricket 97 adds 3D graphics and more authentic teams, while Cricket 96 offers local co‑op and a broader set of international teams.
Key differences
- •Cricket 97 uses 3D graphics and realistic player movement; Cricket 96 uses classic 2D graphics.
- •Cricket 97 includes commentary by famous cricketers; Cricket 96 only lists generic commentary.
- •Multiplayer type differs: Cricket 96 offers local co‑op only; Cricket 97 offers competitive PvP (still offline).
- •Team roster: Cricket 97 focuses on Australian and English squads; Cricket 96 lists various international teams.
- •Release year: 1997 version is newer by one year, potentially reflecting slightly updated mechanics.
Gameplay & fun factor
Cricket 97 adds 3D player movement and realistic ball physics, enhancing immersion over Cricket 96's classic style.
Platform availability
Both are retro titles released in 1996/1997; platform details not specified, so they are equivalent.
Price & value
Both are one‑time paid games; no price differences are provided.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Cricket 96 explicitly offers local co‑op, while Cricket 97 lists competitive PvP but no co‑op mode.
Content & replayability
Cricket 96 mentions various international teams and multiple match types, whereas Cricket 97 limits to Australia and England.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both allow customizable settings and difficulty levels; no further detail to differentiate.
Graphics & performance
Cricket 97’s 3D graphics are newer than Cricket 96’s classic graphics, though both may appear dated today.
Choose Cricket 96 if…
Casual players who want local co‑op and a wide range of international teams.
Choose Cricket 97: Ashes Tour Edition if…
Players seeking newer 3D visuals, authentic commentary, and focused Australia/England matchups.
Common questions
Do either of these games support online multiplayer?
No; Cricket 96 offers only local co‑op and Cricket 97 offers competitive PvP, both offline.
Which game has more realistic graphics?
Cricket 97 uses 3D graphics with realistic player movement, while Cricket 96 uses classic 2D graphics.
Is there a difference in team selection?
Cricket 96 includes various international teams; Cricket 97 focuses on Australian and English national teams.