NCAA College Basketball 2K3

"Finally, a True Basketball Game"

Gameplay - 10/10
This is TRUE basketball. From the outside, the game seems to be just a very hard game all about rules and basic passing, dribbling, and other fundamentals. That’s what makes this game so great. In other games, physics don’t apply. But in this game, you can’t just hold on to the ball, run down the court, and be granted a goal every time. This game is more like real life. All the CPU players have frighteningly realistic artificial intelligence, and the defense doesn‘t just stand there with their finger in they‘re nose. They really try to stop you and make you work for that dunk. To some, this may seem like just a dumb game that is too hard. But, for those who want to play true basketball, this is your game.

Graphics - 9/10
Sega, as always, did a good job on the specs. I was quite impressed on how lifelike some of the players were. It’s against the rules to feature actual players in college games, but Sega did a good job of making everyone look like a college kid. Outside of the court, however, leaves a lot to be desired, but the audience detail isn’t the focus in the game.

Sound - 7/10
Hey, the crowd cheers, your shoes squeak, what else do you expect? The sound is there, and it all sounds right (no pun intended). The commentary is quite weird. Itself, it is very accurate and it always belongs, but it seriously lags behind. It can sometimes be as long as thirty seconds behind. It’s all very odd, but it’s not THAT bad.

Play Time - 10/10
You sure get your basketball for your buck here. You’ll spend tons of time trying to defeat all the teams and make your way to the top. I would honestly say that you will spend 10 hours + if you want to go to the end. And, hey, those 10 hours are just using a single dynasty. Options are nearly limitless, and this one will keep you coming back for more.

Total score - 10/10
Just remember, if you like all those special powers and super abilities on other NBA or NCAA titles, this game is NOT for you. This is for the serious player, who wants a physically realistic gaming experience. If that’s your definition of basketball, then my friend, you have found the idol of basketball playing.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 01/03/03, Updated 01/03/03