It's the graphics engine that will sell Madden on the 360, and it's deserving. Don't judge this game by screenshots. The plethora of animation, weather effects, and a fully polygonal crowd creates a stunning football atmosphere. Tiny details, such as helmet scuff and water collecting on the field in the rain (complete with reflections if there's enough sitting in a puddle) are noticeable too.
What's not acceptable is the presentation, easily the most rushed aspect of the game. While the post-play animations are plentiful, they're buried behind the play call menu. Before the play, there are only a few stock animation routines to follow, like a close up of the quarterbacks face (which reveals eyes far too small for their heads).
This is also a historical Madden, the first not to feature, well, Madden. Taking over the commentary is an enthusiastic "home team" announcer who sounds like he's coming right from a radio. It's a unique touch, though one that doesn't mesh at all with a TV-style presentation (even with as little as there is). The only thing Madden adds to the game aside from his name is a play-calling feature, "Ask Madden." If you've ever played the game before, you won't use it.
It's a tough start for the series on the first next gen console. The changes to the gameplay may be enough to turn off longtime fans, and casual players will find the lack of presentation to be a sharp downturn. Not surprisingly, it's going to be at least a year before the series can gain its footing. Unless the graphics update is that important, just wait for 07.
Madden NFL 06 is a rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB. This game can also be found on: GBA, GameCube, Nintendo DS, PC, PS2, PSP, Xbox, and Mobile Phone.
(*** out of *****)
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.