If you don't yet have a hockey game, you really can't go wrong with NHL 2003. It's a fun, tight-controlling, well-presented game that makes good use of the NHL license. However, those expecting a sim-style game, beware. NHL 2003, like last year's edition, slants more toward arcade-style hockey. All the bells and whistles may just annoy the hardcore fan who's looking for a pure hockey experience. The bottom line is that NHL has always been a great series, and brings us another good installment. But this year's game just maintains at the status quo level. True, that's a high level, but it isn't the marked improvement we were hoping for. Presentation Best in the biz. Great menus, lots of features and NHL Cards make for a great package. 9.0 Graphics Animations and player models look better than ever, but there's a little chop and cut scenes can get repetitive. 8.0 Sound Great on-ice sounds coupled with a love it/hate it commentary make for a mixed bag. Thankfully, the bag contains mostly candy and very little coal (EA Sports Trax is one lump). 9.0 Gameplay Played 2002? Then you've pretty much played 2003. The control is tight and the game is fun as all get-out, but doesn't innovate much. 8.0 Lasting Appeal While the Franchise Mode isn't deep in terms of features, it's ten seasons of fun. Plus, this is one of the great multiplayer games. 9.0 OVERALL SCORE (not an average) 8.7
