Madden NFL 2003

PSX Nation

Madden 2003 is the best overall football game ever made, period...Denying it the perfect score it so richly deserves just because "NFL 2K3" comes soooo close to unseating it would be a crime.

Official U.S. Playstation Magazine

Madden has added so many goodies that Madden fans will be smiling ear to ear, and newcomers'll love it. [Sept 2002, p.116]

Maxim Online

They loaded this year’s ultrarealistic game up with a slew of new features that include online play, a huge arcade-style training camp, and a nifty play creator that’s so versatile that you can have receivers run pass routes that spell your name.

Play Magazine

Above all, a better feeling and playing game, boosted by subtleties that you may not even recognize until you've made it to the playoffs.[Sept 2002, p.72]

GameNow

The most well-rounded, option-rich football game in history. [A+: Sept 2002, p.51]

XenGamers

A game that not only looks and plays better, but also fully realizes the dream of anyone looking to fully manage their own professional team.

Into Liquid Sky

A huge football game that fans of the genre should enjoy. There's lots here to do. In fact, the franchise mode alone should take you months to wear out.

G4 TV

For hardcore football fans, Madden NFL 2003 is a must-own. From the assortment of modes to in-depth features like the playbook editor, this game was made for those who appreciate the intricacies of football.

Cinescape

The sheer size-factor of the game is overwhelming.

GamePro

Even beyond the football gameplay, you have to appreciate the wealth of extras and activities that make Madden NFL 2003 such an entertaining and complete package.

Game Informer

Madden's major changes have occurred on the defense to raise the learning curve and create more strategy. [Sept 2002, p.78]

GamerWeb Sony

The best iteration of Madden ever...The only possible gripe I can have is the lack of in-game chat and other online features, but that’s what next year is for.

Gaming Maxx

The game also includes a cool behind the scenes footage of the game and interviews with coverboy Marshall Faulk, John Madden, Al Michaels and Melissa Stark.

Electronic Gaming Monthly

Madden's gameplay amazes, but it's EA's delivery that throws the knockout punch. [Sept 2002, p.148]

Gamer.tv

Playing a friend is ace while the computer is frighteningly tricky. A goddamn crackerjack humdinger of a game.

IGN

A can't-miss because it accurately simulates NFL gameplay, NFL commentary, NFL uniforms, NFL stadiums and NFL players and that's what football gamers are looking for.

GamePen

This game isn’t perfect, however, I found that the running game was a little too stingy for my tastes. I had a hard time breaking a run for more than 10 yards and more often than not, the gaps in the defense would close far too fast.

PSM Magazine

Madden 2003 is not only the deepest football game ever made, but it may also be the deepest PS2 game ever made. [Sept 2002, p.20]

GameZone

The addition of online play and Mini-camp are simply awesome.

Armchair Empire

I hate to use a cliché, but the number of game modes in Madden 2003 are mind-boggling.

Gamers' Temple

A lot of gameplay modes and some pretty darn good football to boot; you can't go wrong with Madden NFL 2003.

Yahoo! Games

Michaels, probably the best voice in football, takes the microphone with gusto and professionalism. He's recorded his lines, and they do get repetitive, but his delivery is steady and easy on the ears.

GameSpot

Has online play, a robust franchise mode, and plenty of secondary modes to keep you busy, but the minor issues with the running and passing game really prevent it from being the absolute best representation of professional football that's available.

BBC Sport

While "NFL 2K3" still has slightly better graphics, Madden's updated controls, the excellent franchise features and its heavenly tactical play make it one of the best sports games ever to grace the PS2.

TotalGames.net

Madden has always been the king of the hill and this year is no exception.