85
The balance between pleasing hardcore gamers while pleasing Joe Gamer is astounding.
80
The create a driver mode is well executed, and is yet another way in which you can expand the replay value. The best NASCAR game available on the PS2, and one of the best racing games overall.
90
Blows the doors off anything that came before it. [Nov 2002, p.283]
10
I honestly prefer NASCAR Thunder 2003 over the more beloved (by NASCAR fans at least) Thunder 2004. The career mode feels less complex and straightforward in this game compared to 2004 and I prefer the physics and bonus modes in this game versus the ones included in 2004.
10
My personal favorite NASCAR game, amazing gameplay and career that can be enjoyed by all NASCAR fans.
9
I have had this game for a long time, and I can say it is one of the best racing games in the ps2 library. the graphics are great for 2002. the music is good, albeit limited. the AI is solid, it has possibly the best career mode in a Nascar game, and most importantly, it's very fun! it is a fantastic game that succeeds in all categories.
NASCAR Thunder 2003
PlayStation 2
Released On:
Sep 29, 2002
Metascore
Generally Favorable
84
User score
Generally Favorable
7.9
My Score
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Metascore
Generally Favorable
84
94% Positive
15 Reviews
15 Reviews
6% Mixed
1 Review
1 Review
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
91
The experience of NASCAR Thunder 2003 can be summed up in four words...replayability, challenge, realism, and FUN!
90
Off the track, the game is a revelation. [Oct 2002, p.82]
User score
Generally Favorable
7.9
68% Positive
15 Ratings
15 Ratings
18% Mixed
4 Ratings
4 Ratings
14% Negative
3 Ratings
3 Ratings
May 25, 2023
10
I honestly prefer NASCAR Thunder 2003 over the more beloved (by NASCAR fans at least) Thunder 2004. The career mode feels less complex and straightforward in this game compared to 2004 and I prefer the physics and bonus modes in this game versus the ones included in 2004.
May 25, 2023
10
My personal favorite NASCAR game, amazing gameplay and career that can be enjoyed by all NASCAR fans.
90
Truly the best NASCAR package for console racing fans. Regardless of your console, NASCAR gamers need look no further.
85
The balance between pleasing hardcore gamers while pleasing Joe Gamer is astounding.
80
Even someone like me, a NASCAR illiterate, has to profess amazement at how much fun running around in circles trying to beat 43 other drivers can be.
80
The create a driver mode is well executed, and is yet another way in which you can expand the replay value. The best NASCAR game available on the PS2, and one of the best racing games overall.
60
Packed with nuances that, for aspiring fans and drivers must really float their Skoal. Drafting, line selection, pitting...this is a great simulation covering 20 seasons. Not for me. [Oct 2002, p.84]
Aug 24, 2013
9
I have had this game for a long time, and I can say it is one of the best racing games in the ps2 library. the graphics are great for 2002. the music is good, albeit limited. the AI is solid, it has possibly the best career mode in a Nascar game, and most importantly, it's very fun! it is a fantastic game that succeeds in all categories.
SummaryNASCAR Thunder 2003 features an all-new game engine with more realistic vehicle dynamics, including tire grip and wear patterns, handling and suspension behavior, and collision physics; fun entry-level control with progression to deeper "simulation." The Career mode now includes 20 successive seasons in which you will need to manage four... Read More
Rated Efor Everyone
