FIFA 2003 Soccer: It isn't quite perfect, but the latest FIFA game is a refreshing and compelling step ahead in a series that's known for its quality.
As we've seen both in 1998 and this year, EA Sports generally tries to take full advantage of the World Cup , and how much interest it generates in the sport of soccer, by releasing not one, but two soccer games in a year. And now, just five months after 2002 FIFA World Cup comes FIFA Soccer 2003. The latest edition of this decade-old franchise is perhaps the most intriguing in some time, highlighting the tactical battles of the real-life sport and at least partially abstaining from the slam-bang superhuman action of past versions. Make no mistake, the pace can still be inordinately fast unless you choose to slow it down, but this may well be the FIFA that hard-core fans have been waiting for.
After each goal, FIFA 2003 superimposes the team logos and current score onto the pitch.
Presumably since EA Sports has already covered international competition in its earlier game, 2002FIFA World Cup , FIFA Soccer 2003 focuses on club competition. However, its scope is absolutely huge, encompassing 450 teams from around the world and more than 10,000 individual players, each modeled after real-life counterpart. You can choose from globally renowned powerhouses such as Real Madrid, North American Major League Soccer teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes, or somewhat less-renowned franchises like Korea's Pusan Icons.
The game also features the complete 40-squad international roster from this year's World Cup competition, more than two-dozen gorgeous and purportedly accurate stadiums, and a full allotment of home and away uniforms (and additional "alternate" kits where applicable) for each and every team. Play modes include one-off skirmishes, league seasons, and authentic and custom cup competitions and tournaments. Skilled players have an opportunity to unlock even more tourneys and stadiums by proving themselves worthy on the pitch.
SCREENSHOTS
