Metascore
82 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 16
  2. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. 100
    The gameplay in March Madness is nearly identical to that of its big brother "NBA Live 2004," which is a big plus. The frantic pace, the tighter defense, and the importance of set plays is actually a much better fit for the college game than it is for Live.
  2. EA's hoops engine fits well, and is complemented by an immersive NCAA atmosphere and a fine-tuned array of gameplay modes. [Holiday 2003, p.36]
  3. It has very advanced controls that you must try to understand and learn by heart.
  4. 85
    While I applaud March Madness' marked improvements, it still doesn't equal "ESPN College Hoops" in terms of depth, so the game comes in a close second this year on the PS2.
  5. 85
    An incredibly deep game whether your playing alone or online.
  6. The game seems to be a little slow paced, and does not sport the pulse-pounding, floor-racing frenetic pace often associated with NCAA hoops. However the game is seamless in other regards.
  7. It doesn't have the variety of modes as Sega's "College Hoops," but when it comes to play, I give the nod to March Madness. [Jan 2004, p.135]
  8. My biggest gripe about the player models is that their heads are too big.
  9. In terms of atmosphere, no other college basketball game captures the sights and sounds of a university arena quite like this.
  10. Captures the chaotic nature of college basketball. And it punishes you for being careless—as often as possible, defenders will stick their hands out to knock the ball down.
  11. While March Madness 2004 does a good job at capturing the feel of college basketball, a general lack of polish keeps it just a little short of greatness.
  12. As always, the dynasty mode is incredibly robust. [Dec 2003, p.98]
  13. If you're gonna buy one college game this year, buy March Madness.
  14. Those of us that want our sports games lengthy, deep and polished to near perfection, however, will be dunking balls over at Sega Sports’ courtyard with "College Hoops 2004" while EA Canada gets its act together.
  15. More attention to the graphics and gameplay issues would secure its place as the preeminent college basketball game. Right now, though, it’s still on the bubble.
  16. 60
    The huge leap in quality and playability from last year's version qualifies it for one of the most improved sports games available.
User Score

Universal acclaim- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. TylerS.
    10
    Its the best college basketball game ever!!!!
  2. JakeL.
    10
    This is the best game ever and i can take anyone in it im so good! i love this game!
  3. MikeyS.
    10
    It's awesome baby.