Graphics throughout the game have been upgraded and enhanced. The photo-realistic in-game stadia look more impressive than ever before. The mapped-on faces of the stars, which caused such a stir in the previous version, now look even more lifelike. There are a number of new TV-style cut-scenes highlighting in-game dramas, such as bookings and sendings-off. And players now show the benefit of completely re-worked models, boasting improved animations and even more realistic movement.

The previous version had a bewildering range of choice of ways to play, but This Is Football 2003 boasts even more leagues than its predecessor. As well as additional European leagues not seen before, the leagues of North America, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Korea and Mexico are now all included. In all, the details and attributes of more than 13,500 real-life players now feature in the game.