Initial release date: August 13, 2024
Genres: Sports video game, Strategy video game, Simulation Game, Strategy, Sports
Developer:Â EA Orlando
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
Publishers: Electronic Arts, EA Sports
Series:Â Madden NFL
Engine:Â Frostbite
I’ve been playing Madden games for a literal lifetime, which tells you all you need to know about their longevity and popularity in the videogame sports industry. I remember being impressed by some of the franchise’s generational leaps; who can forget seeing it run on the 3DO? However, in recent years, one could claim that there haven’t been any major modifications, even though the foundation of the game has always been a strong and engaging experience. Fortunately, Madden NFL 25 has made some significant changes and can confidently claim to be the most enjoyable entry of the contemporary period thus far. Surfing the wave of the similarly spectacular returning favourite, College Football 25, there is enough here to satisfy long-time, year-in, year-out fanatics while also enticing lapsed fans or newcomers.
Almost every time a new sports game is published, there is talk about some snazzy new physics engine that has a significant impact on the gameplay. This is not limited to the NFL, however. In my experience, these types of statements do not often live up to their promises; but, EA has done business with Madden NFL 25 in a way that seems tangible and is a significant move in the right direction. The much-touted FieldSENSE and BOOM Tech technologies use truly outstanding physics-based tackling and accurately replicate the behavior of specific players and their traits. You can marvel at the recognizable characteristics of your beloved celebrities. There are an absurd number of movements accessible to both ball carriers and receivers, including the possibility to perform a spectacular one-handed catch. The tackling system considers critical pre-impact moments, the actual point of impact, and tackle resolution.
The hit stick is activated by flicking the right stick on the controller up at the appropriate time. In Madden 25, the efficiency of hit sticks is affected not only by timing but also by the defensive player’s location and angle. If you hit the tackle too early, too late, or at the improper angle, its force will be significantly lessened, just as it would on the gridiron. This adds a great piece of risk/reward; nail a clean hit and you could force your opponent to fumble the ball, but do it wrong and they could gallop into the endzone or get a lot of easy yards.
The on-pitch AI has also improved substantially. I immediately noted the tiny difference between pre-snap lineups, right down to the way linemen behave and appear to be their own individual creatures, rather than just assembling like an identikit row of generic players. Crowds react dynamically to on-field occurrences like arenas and team-specific cries like “Fly Eagles Fly!” from die-hard Eagles fans.”. The presentation is slick and quite stunning, right down to the abundance of real-life commentators, including a nice turn from Sunday Night Football mainstay Mike Tirico.
How about the actual rosters? Fortunately, my beloved Jets are actually half-decent this year, featuring Sauce Gardner, who EA has rated (correctly) the best cornerback in the game. However, when I experimented with different teams, it really shows that EA has also done their homework on the playbook side of things, doing a great job of portraying some of the unique ways certain teams play – for example, the Ravens’ run-centric offense with superstar QB Lamar Jackson going through the gear. You may also customize plays by adjusting the yardage distance on routes. Customisation is also excellent elsewhere, with the player creation suite maybe the most detailed ever seen in a football game. Team Builder allows you to construct a fantasy roster that can be as wild and wacky as you like, and the depth and creativity choices will be especially beneficial to those who enjoy the Franchise mode.
The franchise remains as excellent as ever, with a few important changes that make it an even more enjoyable experience. Players improve or regress throughout the season, and you may influence the quality of your club by changing out your offensive or defensive coordinators. Looking ahead, jiggling your scouting team with hiring and firing affects player recruitment outcomes, changing the deck to play to your strengths as you prepare for the latest NFL Draft. If you’re suffering at quarterback, call on someone who specializes in discovering the next big gunslinger. Is your defense as shaky as a dog shitting? Begin scouting for your defensive line.
In addition, there are unique narratives weaved throughout the Franchise mode, like the option to speak on players during press conferences, which can either give a player a much-needed lift or crush them by criticizing their performance.
If you prefer a more individualistic experience, Madden NFL 25 has a Superstar mode, which sees you begin at the Combine and aim to get drafted and live out your vicarious NFL dreams – you can create a player to do this, or even import your previous favorite from the Road To Glory mode in College Football 25.
There is, as is customary with an EA sports product, the bafflingly popular Ultimate Team mode, which can be played for free but is best experienced with an endless supply of cash. One improvement to MUT that I will discuss is the “Solo Seasons” mode, which lets players to face AI opponents in order to progress without the stress of playing online against real humans. Many long-time fans have expressed dissatisfaction with Legends cards being locked from the start.
Review Overview
Gameplay – 78%
Story – N/A
Aesthetics – 80%
Content – 82%
Accessibility – 85%
Value – 80%
Overall Rating – 81%
Very Good
Summary: Madden NFL 25 is a significant step forward for Madden. It looks stunning and plays in a way that is truly unique, thanks to the attention to detail and game-changing physics engine. It builds on the outstanding College Football revival and provides the best experience on a virtual field before the exciting new season begins in September. The great John Madden may no longer be with us, but his legacy of football excellence continues.