Before microtransactions took over the playbook, there was Madden NFL 2003—pure, old-school football with just enough jank to make it legendary. Released in 2002 for the PlayStation 2 and developed by EA Tiburon, this gridiron classic features Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk on the cover, back when that actually meant something and Ultimate Team didn’t exist to drain your wallet.

Whether you’re throwing bombs with Favre, juking linebackers with LaDainian Tomlinson, or punting just to hit someone really hard, Madden 2003 delivers all the hits—literally and figuratively. Franchise mode lets you run the team like a caffeine-fueled GM, and classic Exhibition mode is always there for a quick showdown with your buddies and a whole lot of trash talk.

The commentary from John Madden and Al Michaels? Chef’s kiss. It’s part football, part comedy show, and 100% nostalgia for anyone who spent way too many hours perfecting their no-huddle offense.

Looking for retro games? Buy retro games on Retro Games eXchange and get back to a time when football games were about gameplay, not loot packs.

1. Developed by EA Tiburon, published by EA Sports
2. Features full NFL rosters from the 2002 season
3. Classic Franchise, Tournament, and Create-A-Player modes
4. Legendary commentary from John Madden and Al Michaels
5. A must-play for fans of old-school Madden and early PS2 sports greatness