Every year for the last 20 years Madden NFL has been the game that you come to expect to set the bar for video football and with Madden NFL 10 this year is no different. And, as with prior versions, there are new features that will make your season more enjoyable and a more realistic experience.
Twenty years ago when the first version was being developed for the Apple II series of computers under the name of John Madden Football, the developers wanted to have six or seven player teams. Madden insisted on 11 players per team. He said "I'm not putting my name on it if it's not real." Through today that continues to be the philosophy and driving force of Madden NFL.
Presentation
As I said, with each new version there are always new features to make your season more enjoyable. One area of improvement this year is with the presentation. The focus was defined by the mantra that they've had for years -- everything you see on Sunday, you'll see in Madden NFL. To this end, Madden NFL 10 has added an all new scripted scene system giving you a more realistic rendering of fans, coaches, and trainers, as well as a wider variety of other football familiars like tailgaters, concession stands, and even foam fingers.
Additionally, the UI has been redesigned with a new menu system for easier access, a real life crew of seven referees as opposed to the five of previous versions, a new play calling interface that now has a three-box style of play calling which retains functionality yet makes it more simple to use. One area that still needs work however is the commentary. The commentary has always been a weak point in that if you play enough it all becomes somewhat repetitive.
While the audio may not be the greatest, the graphics this year though are top notch. This is an area that is tweaked every year and this year's version may be the best yet.
Additionally, the quarterbacks all have new ratings, a better QB avoidance system, and signature throwing styles that make them unique. When you add in all the specialty moves like jukes, throws, and tackles, this area of the game truly special.
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