Madden NFL 2003

"EA has evolved Madden in undescribable ways!"

The first madden game I owned was Madden 2002. I was truly amazed and baffled by how great that game was. However, now that I compare it to 2001, I see that it was a major improvement, but not nearly as big as you might expect. I was pretty sure 2003 would turn out the same. But it didn't.

Madden 2003 has so many new features over 2002. It's like they doubled what you can do. You can still play the traditional exhibition mode. This mode lets you choose two teams and play a game. The actual gameplay of madden has evolved tremendously. Besides the traditional graphic overhaul, Madden 2003 delivers many new action-packed moments on the screen. New group tackles are here. This is where two people tackle one person. The AI of the computer has gotten better. Basically, the core gameplay is a tremendous improvement over 2002. But it doesn't end here.

Besides the exhibition mode, there is a brand new franchise mode that is much more in-depth than the old franchise mode. You can manage a team through many seasons and watch players retire and new players come in. This is the best franchise mode in Madden history. There is also the new Football 101. This lets you learn how to play Madden 2003. John Madden teaches you how to perform various plays in this fun learning area.

Do you just like to create things? Well, you can create teams, players, and plays in Madden 2003. Let's start with plays. Madden 2003 lets you create a formation first. Here you can move around all the people and tell them were to stand. Then, you choose running or passing. If it is a running play, you tell who to block and who to run. You also tell them where to run. If it is a passing play, you tell who to run and get open and who to block. You can create a custom direction for them to run. Play creator basically allows you to do everything. The team creator allows you to create a custom team. You create there jersey, stadium, and name. To add players to the team you use create a player. Here, you make a player with a name, physical appearance (everything from their face to how strong there arms are), and skill level. You then add it to a regular team roster.

During regular gameplay you can complete tasks (like ''make three tackles with one player'') to get madden cards. These cards have old teams and players on them. Some are cheat cards which you can use during a game to get an advantage over the opponent.

The graphics in Madden 2003 have evolved greatly. They look much better and crisper. The frame rates are fine and instant replays look amazing. Basically, graphics in 2003 are incredible. The sound is unbelievable. After being annoyed to death by commentary in 2002, I see that EA can do commentary right. They now have Al Michaels there and he is a great improvement. The biggest problem in 2002 is now solved. Madden is perfect.

Now that you understand that Madden 2003 is perfect I suggest you get the game. It is out in stores no and you should get it. So what are you waiting for, an invitation? Go get Madden 2003 NOW, before you realize that you missed out on a truly great game.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 08/23/02, Updated 10/18/02