Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 29
  2. Negative: 0 out of 29
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  1. Along with the balance issues, unrealistically high numbers of turnovers and frequent worst-moment-possible penalties shatter the illusion of simulating an NFL game.
  2. TotalGames.net
    69
    With all the new franchise options Madden 2004 is a definite must for anyone who likes to get into the nitty-gritty of the game, but otherwise you might be better of waiting for the rather nifty-looking "NFL Street." Overall though, this is the best American football game you can get.

Awards & Rankings

1
13
#13 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2003
71
#71 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2003
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 153 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 22 out of 153
  1. Jul 5, 2012
    10
    A peak that as of 2012 the series has yet to reach. (blame that on the lack of comptish.) The gameplay is realistic and much more fun thanA peak that as of 2012 the series has yet to reach. (blame that on the lack of comptish.) The gameplay is realistic and much more fun than the current versions of Madden, and the game was well ahead of its time. Throw in the excellent owner mode and you have a game with incredible replay value. The best Madden there ever has been. Full Review »
  2. Apr 27, 2021
    10
    Madden 2004 deserves the title of being the most iconic game of the franchise & was released during the franchise's peak. The cover athleteMadden 2004 deserves the title of being the most iconic game of the franchise & was released during the franchise's peak. The cover athlete Mike Vick is one of the most OP sports game characters of all time & would be a great pick if someone is doing a fantasy draft of sports game characters.

    The introduction of Owner Mode changed the game forever by allowing the player change the prices of Tickets, Concessions, Merchandise, Parking, & Advertising depending on how well the user's controlled team is doing in Franchise mode. Mini-Camp is great game mode & is the best way to learn the basics of the game. I also like the tiny fact that in Mini-Camp the players wear practice jerseys instead of wearing full game day uniforms. Create-a-Team is one of the best game modes where you choose whatever colors & logos you like. You can even create your own custom stadium with your created team while choosing what you want your team's uniform to look like.

    The Playmaker Control is one of the best one-and-done features ever where you can flip a run play, change the primary receiver's route on a passing play, change safeties coverage, & determining a defensive blitz or deep pass after the ball is snapped.

    This isn't the GOAT of the Franchise but it deserves the title of being the most iconic of the Franchise.
    Full Review »
  3. Aug 31, 2020
    10
    Incredible game. Back when Madden had competition and couldn't rest on their laurels. They actually cared. Michael Vick is Tecmo Bowl BoIncredible game. Back when Madden had competition and couldn't rest on their laurels. They actually cared. Michael Vick is Tecmo Bowl Bo Jackson levels of broken. 99 speed on a QB lol. Deep franchise mode, the complete football game Full Review »