Mike Vick in Madden NFL 2004 is a core memory for many gamers. His incredible speed (95 rating) and rocket arm made him unstoppable, capable of dominating defenses and perhaps even straining friendships due to his overpowered nature.
Mike Vick wasn`t the only player capable of single-handedly carrying a team. With Saquon Barkley recently announced as the Madden NFL 26 cover athlete, it`s a good time to look back at other legendary overpowered athletes in video game history. Just remember to clear it with your friends before picking them in a nostalgic game!
Bo Jackson, Tecmo Bowl
Widely considered the greatest video game athlete ever, Bo Jackson`s real-life `cheat code` status translated directly to Tecmo Bowl on the NES. His overpowering abilities were legendary; stories abound of him running the length of the field multiple times on a single play, with defenders unable to catch him. His dominance was unparalleled, even improving in the sequel, Tecmo Super Bowl.
Jon Dowd, MVP Baseball 2005
Since Barry Bonds wasn`t included due to licensing issues, MVP Baseball 2005 featured a hidden substitute: Jon Dowd. This San Francisco Giants left fielder coincidentally shared Bonds` birthdate, age, and weight. More importantly, he possessed near-max hitting stats (99 power/contact vs. righties, high against lefties), allowing players to replicate Bonds` real-life, often unbelievable, statistics in the game.
Pablo Sanchez, Backyard Baseball
In the fun, cartoony Backyard Sports series (Baseball, Hockey, etc.), Pablo Sanchez, the `Secret Weapon,` was anything but secret. This child prodigy had maxed-out stats across hitting, running, and even pitching in Backyard Baseball. His dominance extended to Backyard Hockey, where he boasted maximum stats in every category, making him the ultimate pick for any team.
Mike Tyson, Mike Tyson`s Punch-Out!!
Mike Tyson was not just a force in real boxing but also served as one of the most challenging final bosses in video game history in Mike Tyson`s Punch-Out!!. His powerful punches could easily knock players out, and he was adept at dodging and blocking. Defeat meant starting over from the beginning. Mastering his patterns to achieve victory before online guides were common was a true gaming feat.
Jeremy Roenick, NHL `94
While not the single highest-rated player (that was Mario Lemieux), Jeremy Roenick in NHL `94 was incredibly overpowered due to his exceptional size combined with high speed. This unique combination allowed skilled players to easily outskate or physically dominate opponents across the ice. Some argue he was even more effective in the previous game, NHLPA Hockey `93.
Ellis Thorne 
Percy Harlow