The manual has the basics, but players need, yes, need to experience the important training elements. Now for the Madden I.Q. …and you thought statistics and fantasy standings were a status symbol. Set in the virtual training center, with a similar visual style to the movie Tron, this new feature assesses players a score ranging from 200 to 800 based completed drills in rushing, passing, rushing defense and passing defense (the most challenging in this quartet). The game gives Mr. Madden himself a lot of prominence here as he expertly takes players through each area.
In-game advertising ranging from food to phone service adds some realism to the festivities. The A.I. has a tendency to run out of bounds for no apparent reason and some unexpected player sliding still occurs. Chris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond make decent announcers while new players' details (e.g. tattoos, hair, etc.) and authentic settings/weather effects further enhance the game.
The role playing superstar mode continues The online mode features rivalries and as many as 32 players with customizable game setups plus deep statistics. Players can import a fantasy team (only if built through the EA service) to test the roster. Still no championships online.
A highly enjoyable football experience that strives to improve player performance (if they choose to put in the effort) and pack enough entertainment to get even the most casual fan hyped up for this NFL season and beyond. Players can’t get enough of this football standard, which brings the A-game every time. Essential for fans and highly recommended for all ages.
Madden NFL 09 All-Play version is available on the Wii for even easier play options, especially for young ones. Special 20th anniversary editions (on PS3 and Xbox360) also include Head Coach 09, a previous version of Madden and several other goodies.
Madden NFL 09 is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB. This game can also be found on Nintendo DS, PS2, PSP, Xbox and Xbox 360. En Espanol versions available on Playstation 3 and XBox 360.
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