For the 20th Anniversary of Madden NFL Football, EA decided to celebrate in style by producing a game that only has little problems rather than huge ones. Unlike years past where the features list was light or the gameplay was flawed, Madden 09’s issues are smaller and more nitpicky. And, yes, that is a compliment. Madden 09 looks phenomenal, plays extremely well, and packs plenty of features to keep fans happy. Find out all of the details in our full review.Image © EA
Comments
I agree with much of the review. Madden 09 is by far, the best looking football game to ever grace a console. Graphically, the game took a big leap forward, in my opinion.
In the gameplay dept, so far i think they have done a nice job of balancing out some of the major gameplay problems of 08. For me, passing was a nightmare in 08. I could never generate good passing numbers for my QB. Never. So far with 09, I seem to be able to actually put up some realistic passing numbers. Also in 08, passing over the middle was like instant death. The LBs would almost always intercept. In 09, this seems to no long be a problem…..BUT, I fear they might have overcompensated. It does seem pretty easy to throw over the middle now.
Running, also seems to have been tweaked for the better. In 08, I almost could never get outside, in 09, it seems a little easier and feels a bit more realistic.
I’m not sure about the Madden IQ. I still dont fully grasp the effect it’s having on my gameplay. But, so far, it does not really seem to match up with the play on the field. I dunno. Weird.
Now for the bad. Online leagues. A JOKE. It’s so annoying that EA has the absolute complete capability to offer us a total arse-kicking online Franchise mode, but they dont. How do I know they can do this…..BECAUSE THEY WERE DOING IT WAY BACK IN 2000 – 2002 with Madden on the pc!!! And they did it GREAT. Until they offer this, Madden will never be a “great” game in my eyes.
The franchise mode also is in need of some upgrades. It did not get much attn in 09.
Overall though, you can’t go wrong. Of course, it’s the only football game in town, so what choice do you have??
But, a very good effort. Easily the best football game of the “next-gen” era.
finally a Madden game that I can at least play a full four quarters game of. I must say this first, I am a complete 2k fanboy. That being said, I always thought Madden was a game of bells and whistles. All looks, no substance. This years entry is somewhat similar although it isnt as terrible as years past. Graphics are top notch. There is no disputing that. The game, visually, is awesome. The gameplay however, still leaves alot to be desired. The game still plays like its on Speed. You have approximately 1-2 seconds on passing plays to choose a receiver. Hail Mary’s are still bread and butter plays. The running game is improved, but nowhere near the level of a 2k football game. With no 2k football game in sight, I’m starting to hope for the day when Take2 sells its football engine to EA and then the best of the two company’s can create the ultimate football game. (wishful thinking huh) Until then Madden will have to do because there IS no other choice. Anything can be considered great, especially when there is nothing to compare it to.
Thanks a lot for your comments, guys!
Are you kidding? This game sucks. Far and away the worst Madden in years. The gameplay is. They completely destroyed the rushing. I want my money back. This game blows.