Nintendo Wii Review: Madden NFL 08 - Page 2

The player roster allow the same option without the season mode complete with depth chart and free agent pools that include Corey Dillon and Mike Vanderjagt. Haven't found a situation yet where you can't switch first picks with other teams in the top 5 or 6 picks. If you need help, go to www.madden08.com for a roster update list. If cap penalties and other logistics go beyond your realm, then rely on the CPU can always make up any roster issues and discrepancies, which really promotes a lot of experimentation. After you update the rosters, you can simulate the entire season to see who the big contenders might be (It was the Chiefs, Colts, Broncos, Patriots, Chargers, Bengals, Saints, Giants, Redskins, Bears, Rams and Eagles with no updates). You can even choose a "total control simulation" where you call the plays, possibly ensuring your big players can pad their stats. You have to simulate each individual game in week 17, then division and conference playoffs (surprisingly low scoring fares). You even get an AFC/NFC pro bowl, which you can also spawn, right before the off season.

The Madden Party multiplayer mode features 22 mini games (you need at least two remotes to play this mode) including trivia if you need a break from all that arm activity. You can be like coach Madden even more in this mode with entertaining telestrator options and highlighting. The graphics work well, but the sound really stands out, especially when it comes through the remote, which has a very long great range. Even tried it from another floor and it still worked! Perfect for the gamer on the move. Sound options include keeping the sound on the field or in the announcers' booth. There's plenty of in game rewards and bonuses to acquire.

My Madden also allows plenty of custom fine tuning. Players can enact a "fairplay" option to limit 4th down attempts, onside kicks, etc. You can also limit the no huddle offense, which has a rapid effect when using family play controller option, especially when playing a weak team. If you want a real challenge try playing a weak team using the advanced controller option against an elite team like the Colts or Chargers. The online play (with no friend codes) lags a bit, but does the job. Player animations are much improved as well (e.g. cornerbacks jump over people to avoid a hit). Options like immense statistics like rush/pass logs and customizing your own championship ring are all right, but how about some post game celebrations (i.e. Gatorade dunks) and locker room halftime events that focus on the team? This title could also use bigger fonts.

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