NASCAR Thunder 2003

"EA Sports Made a Big leap for console NASCAR games in 2003"

This years Thunder has to be a 500% improvement over last years game. It still has some things to be desired, but the improved physics and career mode make worth your time.

Graphics: 6/10

Probably the worst part of the game, a lot remains to be desired here. First off, the cars still dont look ''real'' they sill look way too bright and cartoon-like. And, in the race openings, everything looks too blocky. Its almost like everything has no edgges and is blurred with everything else. The pit crew anamations, however, are probably the best graphics-wise thing in the game. They actually look real. Another strong point to this, is that the game really never lowers its frame rate, resulting in a smoothe drive, even in 40-car pileups.

Gameplay: 9/10

This is the reason we all buy games, the gameplay. And NASCAR thunder 2003 has no shortage of it. For one, the carrer mode is one of the most fun things ive ever done. You get to manage your team, manage sponsors, repair and build cars, and of course the most important part, drive. Thunder also offers lightning challenge. Similar to nascar heats '' beat the heat challenges'', Lightning Challenge puts you in the drivers seat, and you have to duplicate some of the most famous moments from NASCAR racing. Also a new addition to this years Thunder, is Thunder Plates. Similar to Madden cards from the madden football series, you win these from doing specific challenges. They can give you paint schemes, drivers, qualifing help, and even tracks. I also how you can have the ability to use the sliders to customize the AI. Are they wrecking way too much? Turn down the aggression. And they just too dang good? Then turn down the skill meter. Very handy item.

Music: 7/10

The music from this game is pretty good, with tracks from Hed P.E. , Nonpoint , Steppenwolf, and Fenix TX. They are enjoyable to rock to for a while, but can start to get annoying. It still needs more variety.

Sound: 10/10

Now heres the part of the game that EA got right. From the cars scraping the pavement, to the engines firing up, it sounds real. Its absoutley perfect. And a good thing this year, is that they made the pit crew/spotter have a little more variety to what they say. That makes the game alot less annoying.

Replay value: 10/10

You can play this game over and over again and not get bored with it, because its different every time. Theres always that fast lap to try and beat, or that track that you juuuust cant get the hang of. Its not like some games where it goes the same way every time.

Rent or buy???

If your a die-hard nascar fan, definately a buy.

If youre not quite sure, and not sure if its the game for you, give it a rent.

Its a really fun game!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 01/16/03, Updated 01/16/03