Not satisfied with the current Madden, the team has created something new for this generation. The changes are subtle, though enough to be noticeable. It's obvious most of the work went towards the new graphics engine, and while that's expected, people may be surprised about the play changes.
It's not a full-featured game of course. Cuts and trims are abound, including a lack of create-a-player mode. A limited franchise mode makes up the bulk of the single player experience (it's more of a multi-season mode with drafts), and basic online play is only enough to hold people off until next year. The time spent developing this addition has gone elsewhere, sometimes for the better, and other times they went entirely in the wrong direction.
You'll immediately notice the running game has been redesigned, offering more power and a tighter feel. It's more responsive because of it. However, most of the time, it's too strong, and barreling down multiple defenders before hitting the field is common. The statistical and scoring problems take off from there. There seems to be little focus on accurate physics, as turning happens immediately without a delay regardless of speed.
The "truck stick" is the biggest problem in the game. These moves, performed with the right analog stick cause balance problems even with weaker running backs. The defensive "hit stick" offers the only counter, and even this seems ineffective.
Passing remains roughly the same, changed only by the tweaks to the running game. There seems to be little improvements in AI, and linemen only block when they're programmed to do so. The number of obvious and simple missteps by the frontline can be aggravating. QB Vision, the latest feature to be heavily hyped by EA, is also an option though turned off by default. It doesn't add to the game in the least other than making it too complicated.
There's a major playbook issue too. While it's great to see so many different options for selection (including formations and play type), it ruins multi-player games. Anyone can see what play is being picked since you select with a single cursor. You'll point right to the heart of your strategy before every play. It's inexcusable, and without another option, it's enough to rule the game unplayable with someone else in the same room.
Article comments
1 - Ken Edwards
When selecting a play hit X, then move the cursor to something else and hit A. It looks like your play is the last one you picked.
I know it is not the best, but I cannot think of a way to make it possible to NOT see your opponents play.
2 - Matt Paprocki
Like the Genesis versions? Three buttons and squares to select a play? There's not a single reason this isn't an option. After so many years of Madden play selection, the last thing you're thinking of is hiding plays because it's never been an issue.