Console gaming's premier football management simulation makes a very welcome return, complete with enhanced multimedia, but no less of a challenge. And LMA Manager 2003 doesn't betray the fundamentals of its predecessors either, mixing in accessible gameplay with plenty of depth. Boasting a broader selection of leagues and players in its database than before, the game's aims are still the same: take control of a club, meet the board of directors' objectives, keep the supporters happy and hopefully get the dust off the trophy cabinet in the process.
Thanks to the quality of LMA's presentation, it's easy to navigate your way around the many menus, and it's not too hard to get to grips with. It really scores though with its match presentation, which plays out your games before your eyes, allowing you to visually pick up your team's strengths and weaknesses. It's a real asset to the game, and whilst you can skip the match action, you're really missing out should you choose to.
There are some minor quibbles: the game isn't a big step forward from the 2002 edition, and the bolted on highlights after your matches quickly prove to be of little long term value. Yet for those who enjoy their football management games, and want a title that they'll still be playing several months down the line, LMA Manager 2003 is the one. It's polished, immersive and frighteningly addictive, and whilst action junkies are unlikely to warm to it, those who like their entertainment a little more cerebral will be very much at home. --Jon Foster
