Madden NFL 07 Review

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(More customer reviews)Yep... I said it. Everyone seems to have the same ideas and views that I've been saying for years now. I think one of the other reviewers put it best: "Buying Madden every year is like getting a new calendar - yeah, technically it's 'different', but in the end..." well, you get the point. This review is a little long, but since I don't think I'll be doing another one for ANY EA title anymore - as I won't be buying them - I wanted to cover everything that I could think of, in case anyone is (like me) a longtime player and customer.
EA has effectively eliminated all competition by purchasing the NFL license - no need to push the envelope by putting out innovative and fun quality products now. Hell, they're bold enough now to even take Madden out of the 'Madden', so why are some surprised that other features are gone?? (RIP 2K Series... you were the best) But who's really to blame - the companies, who obviously are in this to make $$$ (and doing a good job), or the fools out there in line at midnight (saw it on the news - how retarded is that??) throwing all that $$$ away every summer? Me - I hate everybody in this equation equally...
I really wanted to like this game. I REALLY did... In the end, I think I received it in the best possible fashion - got it as a gift. Just can't see paying $60 for roster updates - that's essentially what this amounts to. Yeah, it's supposedly better than last year's version (which I hadn't played on the 360), but it's now just as good as MAYBE '05 on the regular XBOX. Why are we settling for moving backwards - ESPECIALLY when we're talking about the 360? Why are we so excited over possibly getting to a point that WE WERE AT 4 YEARS AGO? (Use the gas-price analogy if it helps you understand why so many people are pissed: You get excited now when you see gas prices at $2.25-$2.50, even though you were using the same or better quality gas for $1.10 or less a few years ago. Same general principle here...) Because people b***h and moan, but EA can count on them to be in line at GameStop or WalMart on release day, with hard-earned money in hand, hoping they won't be disappointed this year. PRAYING that THIS is indeed the year. No. EA knows this. (Yeah I can talk - I stopped purchasing Madden in '03 when I realized that they were more interested in that little "#1 Selling Football Franchise" tag in the corner of the game box than in keeping their customers satisfied.)
Overall, the graphics are nice - decent is maybe more accurate. I play this on my 62" HDTV... the perfect setup for those sports nights - this game just seems to fall a little short to me. Even my wife said, "This doesn't look like it's by the same people that did the boxing game." (Fight Night Round 3, which we love - the only thing keeping EA afloat as far as I'm concerned) Don't get me wrong - it's not the worse game by any means. (I disagree with the review that said it was like Gameday '99 - that's a little extreme.) I don't need the jerseys to get dirty, or care if I can actually see the field get torn up as I play... it would be NICE, definitely. Don't know why we CAN'T have that, but anyway... There was some detail put into the movement of the faces and all - I can see the effort there. Whoever said that these were spot-on, accurate representations of the real NFL players must have been smoking something highly illegal. These are detailed faces indeed, but of very ugly people. Cracks me up, actually... and why is everybody ridiculously cut on this game? My punter is the same size as my LB?? Is Balco in on this game too? I'm willing to deal with mutant players and the lack of certain other details. I don't think we should have to settle for average overall games though, especially with a title as established as Madden. Definitely expecting more from a system that's supposedly more powerful than any home computer you can get.
Gameplay is familiar; same running patterns, with a few new animations - still choppy and unrealistic, even on the "mighty" 360. Who do I have to talk to about getting some gang tackling on here?? Jesus... it's 2007 - this should've BEEN a part of Madden by now. ...but I digress. Button configurations are overly-complicated... the menu interface is probably more confusing than it needs to be, but you kinda get used to it. (much like a rash) Camera views, particularly in the Superstar Mode, are absolutely horrific. As a QB, you can't see a damn thing on either of the sidelines. I guess it's still a decent idea, but I much rather play the Superstar Mode from last year on the XBox - who really thought that giving players the ability to play as an OL was the one element that was missing from the series, seriously?? The idea of only controlling your 'Superstar' annoys me... I guess it is realistic in the sense that you only control YOU in real life, but in a video game? Nah... I'd still at least like the option to control the entire team on offense and defense. Glitches? The Fatigue button is a joke, and doesn't work realistically. (I mean seriously doesn't work - to the point where there's a patch in the works to fix this.) Why is such a hyped product still having MAJOR glitches before release, and still being rushed into stores?? Another thing - I unlock a Mr. Barry Sanders... not bad. But why does he automatically end up on another team (in this case, the Panthers) throughout the course of my Franchise? You have absolutely NO SAY in what happens. I don't like that. Again, this isht should be ironed out before the final product is released. I'm not a fan of patches and quick-fixes - you get enough of that dealing with a computer.
Gameplay interface still allows for ridiculous ease: beat the CPU 87-3 on All-Madden, my Bears (87 points??) against Indy with 5 min quarters. (Of course, an 80+ point deficit in the 4th quarter didn't deter the Colts from ONSIDE KICKING after their sad field goal... why does this STILL happen on every Madden game?!?!) First time playing - nothing new there. All of the little gimicks and everything wear out their welcome by game number 4, because at that point you've seen every (and I mean EVERY) item and animation this game has to offer. Remember 2K4 and 2K5, when you still found new stuff, or heard new commentary/saw new animations like 9-10 months later? Yeah, me too... (sniff) Another gripe of mine (maybe small to some) is the music and commentary. I know NO ONE, even die-hard Maddenites, could say with a straight face that Madden's painfully obvious play-by-play could be mentioned in the same breath as the 2K series', but I actually MISS Mr. Madden in this installment. The radio announcer thing... no. Doesn't work. Music? Well, I know everyone has their different tastes, but I'm not feeling this. Considering this is the 360, why don't we have more control over what music is played, and when/where? True, you can have your saved music playing, but guess what? It just plays continuously throughout EVERYTHING. (Compare this to the original XBox - on NFL 2K5 you could not only choose the individual songs you have playing, but assign different points in the game - after touchdowns, long drives, turnovers, etc. - that the particular song would be cued. You could even pinpoint a particular moment in the song and have it start from there! For my money, nothing was more fun than listening to Lil' Jon scream "WHAAAAT?!?!?!" after a big sack or Truck-Stick hit.)
You can say I'm nitpicking, but is it really, on a $400+ system? Why do we have to wait until Sony comes out with the "competition" (or arguably superior product - PS3) before MicroSoft actually cares enough to put out what we - as consumers - deserve for our money? If EA (and MicroSoft, for that matter) would like to get back some fans and loyal supporters (Yes EA, your NBA Live series sucks too... what the hell happened to you?! Those previews look promising... but so did Madden/NCAA 07.), they should offer - instead of ridiculous prices for garbage - maybe roster update/new feature patches for the 360. If you subscribe to XBox Live Gold (which isn't free), you should get this for no fee. If you don't have the Live connection, you should be able to download it on a computer and put it on a disc or something - charge about $15-$20 for this. I think that would be fair.
If you HAVE to buy the new version every year, then you'll go and get this, or already have. If you love Madden for whatever unrealistic reason, you'll find a reason to love this game, if only to defend your choice to purchase it. Having played Madden since SEGA GENESIS, I'm expecting more. For you Madden-heads out there whose hearts hurt when you read a negative comment about Madden, stop being so damn sensitive. Do you need a hug or something? Did your sister or son make the game? No? Then don't take it personal. These are MY opinions of a game that I own. Stop reviewing the other REVIEWS, and put your honest comments about the actual product. If you like it, then put why. (Other than the fact that you may secretly be Mr. Madden's lovechild)

How's this: Madden's gonna be the best football game for '07, guuaranteed. See? Feel better?
Madden '08 will be the one, though, right? LOL... yeah, right.
Overall, 2 and 1/2 stars... okay, 3. Looks pretty. The rest is kinda forgettable. Not the worst game ever, but nowhere NEAR where it should be... charging $60+ for this is insulting.


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Madden NFL 11 Review

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(More customer reviews)I, like most, have been a huge Madden fan throughout the history of the game but I learned a very valuable lesson early on; NEVER BUY BACK TO BACK YEARS!! NEVER!! I did. And I'm sorry for it.
Madden 10 was pretty good, I thought NCAA 10 was better and after playing the demo for 11 I was hooked. I wanted the updated rosters, I wanted gameflow and I was really getting use to the new running scheme. What I figured out after I bought the game was how much the hype failed. Gameflow is ask Madden without pushing buttons. You can always go in and make custom game plans, which I think is a really cool idea, but this takes forever. You're just as good off using the playbook during game play, at least then you have every play you want without forming habits. No complaints with the running game, I think it's pretty solid. If I had a complaint it would be that it is far to easy. I'm no Madden God but this running game makes me feel like one. Passing is hit and miss. I LOVE receivers staying in bounds for the catch or dragging their feet, but that is IF they catch the ball. So many times I've thrown a ball (from a highly rated QB) to an open, slant route running receiver (also highly rated) just to watch the ball bounce in front of him. How about a one handed catch? How about a dive? Where is my coach "give me more effort!!!" button?? The D pad option is just horid. Whoever in game development had that brain storm of an idea should be beaten. On offense it's barely "ok" and I only say that because you can control the clock. On defense it's almost impossible. Just trying to change out of a play is cutting it close, let alone pushing a d pad to cover a certain receiver, ball snaps before I'm ready every time.
Defense goes a little something like this. Open Madden 10, select all, copy, paste to Madden 11....ad D pad frustration. If a developer is reading this....you're an idiot. We don't pay this much money for cut and paste options, and as soon as EA sports stops buying out NFL rights I will never buy another Madden game again. I love defense and I hate that EA hasn't made defense a priority in years. Superstar is another cut and paste job. That portion of the game could be so much better and I've waited for so long to see it evolve. EA sports, I hate you. Franchise is also cut and paste, also another game option that could be amazing through and through.
Online. First off, I never play online. I can understand why some do, I'm honestly not good enough to play against the big boys. But this doesn't stop EA sports from driving me crazy. Nope, this year you must pay for the privilege of playing online, after already paying for the privilege from x-box. Nicely done EA, I loath you. So even though I do not play online, if I want future roster updates I sure will have to pay for it. But that's not all....want dumb coins to buy fake football cards? Better buy those too. Want to have an edge on your franchise? Better buy those options as well. Games are expensive enough. I love game addons like the next game junkie but c'mon man! No other game on the market does this. Fable 3 isn't going to put out a new game every year, make you pay for all the cool stuff while at the same time pushing out a crap product. There would be anarchy on the streets!!!! Madden does it year after year.
The graphics are great, as always, and the Superbowl finally got a face lift. All in all I think it would be a good game if I had gone a few years without purchasing a new Madden. If that sounds like you, or you're waiting for something to push you over the homicidal edge, I bet you'll love the game. If you see a used Madden 11 game on Amazon for $12....that's me.

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Madden NFL 08 Review

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(More customer reviews)Ladies and Gentlemen... I give you Madden 06 for the XBox 360.
Madden 06? Well... yeah. This is the version that should have been for 06. 2007 at the least. But we won't harp on that - we'll just go off of this game and what we have here now. And what we have here now is a pretty good game, I must admit.
To start off, let's remember that Madden 07 SUCKED. Plain and simple. If you thought otherwise, then... well, to quote the late Rick James: "Cocaine is a hell of a drug." I reviewed it harshly, but accurately. (It's the first one that displays) I said - nay - SWORE that I would not buy another EA football or basketball title until they showed us, as consumers, that they were interested in putting out a quality product and less interested in that '#1 Selling Franchise' logo on the box every year. I missed playing football games, as I usually do around this time of year, so I picked up NCAA 08. I enjoy the college versions usually, and that one was no different. Some of the upgrades on there had me a little curious about what they had in store for this year's Madden, so I kept my eyes open. But I swore to myself - RENT first.
So I did... played a few games, different modes, etc. Then a funny thing happened. I went right back out and bought it. Wow... didn't see that coming. And even more surprising than that, I guess, for some - the FAR BETTER version is on the 360 and NOT the PS3.
So let's see... where to start. I'll start with the cons, since there aren't many of them this year, surprisingly. But the ones that ARE there are biggies, and keep this game out of the 'Great' category and firmly in the 'Very Good' area. (still better than last year's 'Rancid Camel $&?!#' rating)
New England is rated at a 97. Okay, that's not really a 'con' but COME ON... a 97? Really?? Anyway...
Presentation - pitiful.
For a game that has exclusive rights to the ESPN brand, this is really horrible. Games past utilized FAR superior presentation styles - including those that were ESPN licensed. With all of the classic on-air/broadcast personalities over at ESPN, all they could come up with was Marshall Faulk doing a glazed-over pre/post game two-liner? All-Pro Football 2K8 was a half-hearted attempt by the 2K Crew, yet it is not UTTERLY behind Madden - why? Presentation. The audio commentary, the little subtleties in the gameplay: players actually talking to one another and the ref, players getting out of the way of oncoming traffic while standing on the sidelines, etc. Why does this seem to remain just out of EA's scope of imagination? Play-by-Play is still a joke this go-round. Madden was never on par with the classic 2K series, but this radio broadcast thing - doesn't work for me, and from what I'm hearing - doesn't work for most others. I actually miss Madden's painfully OBVIOUS-isms. ("What you wanna do is... you wanna score more points than the other team, because THAT will put you in a better position to win the game." Thanks for that pearl of wisdom there, JM) Also gone is the ability to truly customize your menu playlists. I hate that. I want my own music. Period.
I don't play online as much as in the past, but one rather large omission I noticed was the lack of Online Leagues. Hmmmm... that seems like it would add MILES of replayability, yet again, it's nowhere to be found. Disappointing, moreso for some I'm sure.
And of course there are a few gameplay issues, but that's to be expected. AI has been drastically improved, but there are still moments when your DB's and LB's will prove to be mildly retarded.
You fumble FAR too often on this game - the ball is too easily jarred loose, thanks in large part to the Hit Stick controls, but after awhile you kinda get used to it a bit. (annoying in itself)
EA 4th Quarters are still in effect: No matter how badly you've been destroying a team for 3 quarters, they will manage to drive down and score on you in the 4th. Bumping the difficulty up a notch or two helps somewhat this year - I keep it on All-Madden. Speaking of AI - how about a little AI upgrade for the crowd, coach and sideline players? The fans are still there, cheering like psychos, even though their team is down by 48 in the closing seconds of the game. Not likely... The sideline players are still over there in their overly-generic animations, all moving in sync with each other - looks like an old Michael Jackson video. And my coach, even in the snow, is over there getting his Kanye West on with a short-sleeved polo shirt and a headset. 36 degrees out, Coach...
There's still no way to save mid-game, though they did incorporate the SuperSim feature from NCAA 08. You can (pre-game or pre-play selection) choose to simulate the entire game, quarter, half, possession or play.
The other biggie (besides the presentation) is the Special Teams play. It effectively serves no purpose on this game. The kicking game is still overly simplistic, every kicker has the ability to kick the ball out of the stadium, there are no useful adjustments for kickoff/punt formations (wedge, etc.) Also, if the other team DOES manage to score, expect an onside kick. 50-point deficit in the 4th still? Onside kick... Why? WHY??? Football is, when you get down to it, made up of 3 elements: Offense, Defense and Special Teams. That's 1/3 of the game. 1/3 that they failed to represent. Can't have a 'Great' game with those percentages.
Thankfully, the rest of the game is rather outstanding.
Graphically, the game is so far ahead of last year's it's not even funny. Gone are the kickers with the 27-inch pythons. You can tell Peyton Manning apart from Brian Urlacher. Players are far more realistically portrayed in this installment. Slow down a HB in the open field just long enough for 2 of your DB's and a safety to swarm in and gang tackle him into the turf. (FINALLY!!!!!) The new animations (literally hundreds) make for a much smoother and free-flowing gaming experience, and the intuitive button configuration (fully customizable, of course) helps in just jumping straight into a game.

The stadiums are very nicely done, and the field looks phenomenal - PARTICULARLY during bad weather. You see the destruction of the field in the heavy traffic areas, and it progresses throughout the game. Even the rain itself tapers on and off throughout. One suggestion: how about some splashing, and more evidence of the messy weather on the uniforms/helmets. The lack of water splashing kind of takes away from the beauty of the huge pools of water that you are being forced to hike the ball from.
Aside from the radio broadcaster, the sound is brilliant. On-field trash talking, stadium announcer - everything is there. The tackling sounds will actually have you cringe occasionally... especially if it's one of YOUR players that just got their head knocked off.
I mentioned the AI - leaps and bounds over 07. Minus a few lapses here and there, you really have to use some THOUGHT when playing. I actually enjoy PUNTING now!! Throw to a receiver near the sidelines, and watch him (gasp) actually make an attempt to stay inbounds while catching the ball. Loose ball? Be amazed at how a mad dash will instantly ensue. Gone are the days when a goalline stand was a mere formality. 1st and Goal on the one? Don't be surpised if you end up with 3 points...
All of the other gameplay features appear to be back, more or less. Instead of a dedicated 'Owner Mode' you can check in the Front Office menu and observe how your Franchise is running. Check prices (can't adjust them though), revenue, expenses... even RELOCATE your team somewhere more profitable if your market is slow with the money. Drafts, stats, roster management - pretty much the norm. And all of the other little stuff, like the Rings, Trophies, yadda yadda - not that much into that crap, but they're there if you want them. Connect to XBox Live and the ESPN Ticker will keep you updated with current stats and news in real time. (I got several Michael Vick updates yesterday... nice)
Madden annually introduces some new gimmick to the franchise in an attempt to make it 'fresh' - this year brings us the Weapons System. While it can use some tweaking for sure, this is - to me - the single best addition to this franchise since the ability to change your pass coverage came along. Along with the traditional ratings system, you now have a Weapons system, labeling players by their strenghts and tendencies. No longer are two 99-rated WR's mirror images of one another. Steve Smith and T.O. are both great receivers for different reasons. L.T. and L.J. are definitely different types of backs, but you'd never know it on previous Maddens. Power backs play differently that elusive backs; Speed receivers go differently than possession receivers. For every Weapon, there is a counter Weapon. Hard Hitters can counter a Power HB by taking their legs out from under them consistently, but would have a harder time taking out an elusive back - while THEY would have more trouble with a Brick-Wall defender or LockDown defender. See? And it's up to you to set mismatches and play to your strengths and your opponent's weaknesses. Smart players - there's nothing you can really do to counter them outside of choosing a vast variety of plays - don't become predictable. Once your Smart Player's icon illuminates fully, they are able to see the play art of the opponent. QB's will see the defense's plan - LB's will see the offensive play between the hash marks. This all adds up to provide a football experience than Madden lovers haven't had, arguably, ever.
So how does it rate? A solid 4 out of 5 for me. The...Read more›

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Why just watch NFL football on TV when you can take an active role in the game with Madden NFL 08 by Electronic Arts? Madden NFL 08 lets you control the running game like never before. Step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers as you fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give you a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs. Between the tackles or in the open field, run to daylight with Madden NFL 08.Bust out player-specific running styles matching those of real NFL players. All-new jukes, cutbacks, and power moves.Scout collegiate prospects with the all-new NFL Draft Scouting System. Watch players impact their teams with the new Franchise Player Roles feature. Use actual plays from your favorite team's defensive playbook to shut down the running game, pressure the quarterback, or force key turnovers.

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Madden NFL 2006 Review

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(More customer reviews)Madden NFL has been around for quite a while, and has built up an incredible reputation. The XBox 360 launch release has great graphics - but a few flaws.
Let's start with the great parts. We have a high definition TV and the graphics were just gorgeous. You can see the details of the face, the definition of the muscles, the details of the uniforms. The stadiums have signs in them promoting the home team.
That being said, we noticed some issues with graphics right away. Some of the camera angles are just awful, and made it really hard to connect a player with a ball. The fans in the stand look like robots. Also, with the incredible detail they put into the character models, some simply aren't right.
I'm happy to deal with even mediocre graphics if the gameplay is stellar. After all, it's the gameplay that keeps you going for months and months. We ran into problems here, too, though. The XBox 360 console crashed only halfway through our first game - and that was only the beginning.
You can't challenge plays, either, even though some seem mighty suspect.
There might be some players who really like the changes, and who can deal with the crashes and bugs. If you think that might be you, then certainly rent it for a week and see. After a week you should be able to tell how well you enjoy it and if you want to buy it. I definitely feel this is a test-before-you-buy title.


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For the first time in 10 years, the Madden NFL Football franchise has revolutionized its passing game-giving Madden NFL 06 the most groundbreaking and innovative offensive arsenal ever created. The new QB Vision Control lets you scan the field, look off defenders, and make perfect throws within your quarterback's unique field of vision. QB Precision Placement allows you to put the ball exactly where you want it. Lead the receiver to an open area, throw it behind him so he can come back to it or throw a jump ball and let him go get it.

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Backbreaker Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a must own for any gamer who loves football and is tired of Madden.
I for one am tired of shelling out $60 for roster updates with a few added bells and whistles. Don't read into the negative reviews too much. From what I've read, they try and compare this game to Madden. The only thing it has in common with Madden is their both football games. No canned animations here. The all new physics engine is awesome, delivering a unique football experience like no other. Whatever complaints reviewers have had are lame. No refs, no commentary. Who cares. It's the look they were going for and it doesn't hinder the game in any way. Full customizable teams and player names! It has solid graphics, huge hits and is a true next-gen title.
Check out the demo on Live. There is a learning curve to get good but once you're there, its addicting. The change in controls is also a plus, using the analog sticks to pass and triggers to enable aggressive running and focus on receivers.
We need to support innovation so we dont get stuck with the same stale game every year (Madden). I'm not saying everyone out there is going to like the new style, but at least appreciate the effort involved in the whole new vision of football this game offers.

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Your heart pounds as you stand tensed and ready at the line of scrimmage. The ball is snapped, the familiar feel of leather hits your hands, as you drop back and scan the field for the open man. Your eyes flit from player to player looking for the perfect opportunity, but find nothing. Out of the corner of your eye you see your right guard go down, opening a direct path for a hefty linebacker to charge you. The pressure is on, you have a fraction of a second to make the play and sweat rolls down your brow stinging your eyes. Will you run, pass, or be sacked? Make the right choice and lead your team to victory.

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Madden NFL 09 Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been an avid hater of the Madden Franchise since they bought out the NFL license in 2005. I've been a 2k guy for a few years now. My hatred has been solidified with every time I pick up a friend's copy of each Madden series installment riddled with poor gameplay, features, bad AI, and an over emphasis on graphics. Heck, I've been playing ESPN NFL 2k5 since 2005 regularly for my NFL fix. That was until this edition came along.
I have to say I'm extremely impressed with Madden NFL 09. Yes, the graphics are great, but the gameplay and presentation and features are all there as well. Something that the 2k series has had Madden beat on for a very long time.
This game is great in many areas. For example: staying in the pocket to make good throws. Gang-tackling. Consistently changing computer AI that adapts to how well or how incompetent you are in the game of football; oh and it actually works very well, too. So you're always challenged on a consistent basis. Something that really appealed to me for this version was the ability to import plays created in Head Coach 09.
Another thing that really hit me was the ability to scout out college prospects throughout the year. I always hated in previous years of any football game (i.e. NFL 2k and Madden NFL) how you had to gather up all the info you needed for a draft in a span of a few simulated weeks in the off-season. Now you do it all season long. So it's easier to make a good decision on what guys you want during the draft.
All in all Madden 09 is great, but not perfect. I've made through an entire season, and I'm very satisfied with the product I've purchased. Sure there a few nit picky things that come up. One is when the clock gets down to 1:01 left in a half, the computer will virtually always call a timeout when behind. But like I said: that's nit picking.
And this FREEZING thing people keep talking about? Yeah, I haven't seen it on my XBox 360 console. I do have the new one with the HDMI on the back, so maybe that's why. I don't know. But I've left my console on for hours while keeping a game on pause, coming back to it later, and it continues without a hitch. Honestly, I've seen my copy of NFL2k5 freeze way more often in the span of a season (about 2 to 3 times) compared to Madden 09 (0 times).
I'll go out on a limb and say it might be the best Madden yet. However there were things I really liked about the 2005 version and even the 2000 version, too. Actually, Madden '93 was actually my favorite Madden of the 90s, and that leads me to something disappointing I'll reveal.
Madden '93 for this game is not the real Madden '93. It's actually a dumbed down version with the current rosters and teams, and there is no other mode to play but exhibition mode.
I actually liked Head Coach 09. I managed to get a copy of the 07 version, and it was okay. I thought it had potential, but that was it. The 09 version made some improvements. Picking your staff is easier. The games are actually 15 min long per quarter instead of 2 min per quarter. I don't like how during halftime you can't motivate your team or make adjustments. I'd go further into it, but the bottom line for people on the fence about purchasing this version of Madden to get Head Coach 09 need to understand one thing. This is a simulation of the heart ache that comes with being a Head Coach. I admit, it feels like a job sometimes when you play this game. But it is a simulation of what being a head coach in the NFL is kind of like. Unfortunately, there are things about Head Coach 09 that you can do that really only the GM has control over in real life. But I'm weird like that how I know that, but I love Pro Football. Since I'm a nut about it, I do appreciate playing a game like Head Coach '09.
The special features disc is nice to watch and then store. That's about it for that. It's nothing you can't find on YouTube or on a re-run of a show on NFL network.
Overall, I'm very impressed with this product. I found my copy online for 65 bones brand new, and it was worth every penny. It's safe to say that my copy of NFL 2k5 is going to be collecting a lot of dust over the next couple of years or so. This Madden is that good for a 2k lover to cross over to the "dark side" and enjoy. Heck, if you're weary because you are a Madden fan and have been burned by bad games since Madden 06, then don't fret. At the very least, pick up a copy of Madden NFL 09. You won't be disappointed this year.

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Madden NFL 2009 Collector's Edition includes both Madden NFL 2009 - With the best gameplay, deepest online experience and most features ever - and NFL Head 2009, offering absolute control of your favorite franchise plus the ability to create custom playbooks for Madden. Madden NFL 09 delivers its most complete NFL football package ever. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or picking up the game for the first time, players of all skill levels will enjoy a unique, yet challenging experience with the innovative Adaptive Difficulty Engine, which tailors the game to match your playing style. Instantly improve your game with the all-new virtual Training Center or incorporate feedback with EA SPORTS BackTrack, allowing you to learn from your mistakes on the fly. With a new broadcast presentation and online leagues, plus more than 85 new features and enhancements, Madden NFL 09 is the most authentic and adaptable game in sports video game history. An all-new Adaptive Difficulty Engine assesses your proficiency in the core skills areas of football. An innovative, Virtual Training Center allows you to fine-tune your game in a holographic environment, while EA SPORTS BackTrack provides customized feedback, giving you a chance to learn from your mistakes. Take what you've learned and run the play again with EA SPORTS Rewind. Set your sights on the Vince Lombardi Trophy in an all-new network-television-style broadcast as Cris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond call the action from the booth. A more immersive and visually stunning presentation package also includes a new Options OnDemand Picture-in-Picture playcall window giving you access to a wealth of stats, customized tips, and in-game options--all at your fingertips without having to pause the game. Make a run for the post-season for the first time online. Featuring trades and statistical tracking for Online Leagues, up to 32 teams can battle it out using all-new flex scheduling. Wi

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Madden NFL 07 Hall of Fame Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)Madden 07, Hall of Fame edition is a just the same Madden 07 with another Bonus DVD with Features. I will discuss that later.
For the game itself, some features include run to daylight which gives the player the ability to set up blocks using the FB/OL, etc. This is useful in game but the CPU RB sometimes makes poor decisions including running away from my block. However it can be remedied by switching really quickly from the blocker to the rb.
Overall, the gameplay itself is improved especially for the deep ball. Before any pump fake lob is easy catch but now it is remedied a bit. Even though, the lob is still prevalent the SS or FS goes over to cover. Running is more fun due to the RTD but running on the higher levels is still difficult.
Mini-games and Practice move back in for the 360 and are much important specifically for tournament players for the Madden Challenge. For any beginning player who wants to improve their skills, mini-games help.
Franchise gets a kick with Mel Kiper Juniors picks for the upcoming draft and the ability to mini-camp your players with the mini-games but to be honest its tough to add anything brand new to a mode like this.
Superstar Mode is in the 360 and for the people who ever wanted to figure out if they could have made it, the mode is challenging and fun. However, ratings seem to be a tad high and you are always the starter this can be remedied by editing the depth chart. The most important part is the camera angles a la ESPN NFL 2K4 First Player mode, you play as your superstar on the field in a first player angle only as that player. If you enjoy playing this mode in Madden 06, this version is much more interesting.
The Major issue with both of these modes is the HOF players unlocked during the game via MAdden Gamer Profile, these players occassionally pop up in franchise and superstar mode. This can be remedied by saving the first default roster and then entering the mode.
Now to get to the bonus DVD, it includes the first eight episodes of Madden Nation from ESPN which shows the best tourney players going head to head for 100,000.
A retrospective on John Madden coaching career which is very entertaining for anyone who has no clue about the coach John Madden.
A look at the music of Madden from MTV2, for the music fan at heart and madden fan.
Finally it includes a behind the scenes look at Madden 07 with ESPN's Trey Wingo which gives players some insight and tips on how to play the game.
Overall the money is a bit steep for the Hall of Fame edition but is well worth the value basing the knowledge that the regular game is only ten dollars less.
If you are a Madden Challenge player, I would suggest buying the game for teh XBOX since that is the current format.
Overall this is the best football game for the 360 and defintely worth the 70.00 including the bonus features.

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In Madden NFL 07 Hall Of Fame Edition, you'll control the running game like never before. For the first time ever, step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers - as you fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give you a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs. Between the tackles or in the open field, run to daylight with Madden NFL 07. Special Hall Of Fame Edition includes: Commemorative exterior packaging; Bonus DVD with a John Madden retrospective, the first season of "Madden Nation" (10 episodes), documentary on the Music of Madden, and instructional videos with Tiburon staff giving gameplay hints and tips.Smaller backs escape and break tackles, while bigger runners bowl over defenders in the open fieldScout collegiate prospects with the all-new NFL Draft Scouting System and during the College All-Star GameWatch players impact their teams with the new Franchise Player Roles featureTeam-Specific Defensive Playbooks -For the first time, use actual plays from your favorite team's defensive playbook to shut down the running game, pressure the quarterback, or force key turnovers

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Xbox 360 50' Ethernet Cable Review

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(More customer reviews)These Ethernet cables are worth it for the price. I stick to a wired network, so I have these green cords running all over the upstairs. What's interesting is that it's not a single 50' cable, but instead two 25' cables and an generic green inline connector. Very useful.
However, after using a couple of sets of these, there are some problems. One, there are little rubber "shields" over the snap-on connectors. They take an annoying amount of force to disconnect the cables from anything. I suggest you snip these off with a pair of scissors. Two, the connectors themselves are poorly made, and are very liable to breakage. The cable will still work, but you need to tape down or find some other way of keeping your cables fastened to their devices. Out of four 25' cables, I've had two of them break the connectors on both sides.

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Features:Premium-quality Ethernet cables.Adapter allows for up to 50-ft of cable.Comes in two 25-ft sections.

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Madden NFL 09 Review

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(More customer reviews)This game is seriously horrible, which is why EA is now on its "second patch." I few reasons will be stated.
LOS LIMIT
The line of scrimmage (LOS) limit is useless during gameplay. The quarterback can scramble from the backfield while being pressured, pass the line of scrimmage and complete a pass to his receiver without any penalty. More devastating to the defense is this: the defensive back (DB) breaks coverage and leave the receiver wide open, causing the QB to complete a deep pass.
To combat this glitch, Senior Designer Cummings states: "We addressed this by making sure the DB will no longer break on the ball when the QB crosses the line while throwing."
This means that the QB crossing the line of scrimmage (even though it is a violation/penalty) will remain in the gameplay, while the defensive back stay with his man and not break coverage.
USELESS PLAYER RATINGS
This glitch is perhaps the most disheartening glitch during gameplay. Players' ratings are put in the game for a reason and expected to have an impact and mean something, but they do not mean anything. EA developers added the ratings for the hell of it and for show - knowing they will be useless on the field and hoping gamers would not realize its uselessness. There have been many instances where QBs run over defenders and dishrag them around as if the defenders are Barbie Dolls. During a game against the New York Jets, QB Chad Pennington trucks DE Jason Taylor and then MLB Channing Crowder, and was later gang tackled. Such nonsense like this does not happen in real life and never would; it's impossible, especially against DE Taylor.
To show how useless and unrealistic the players' ratings are, three of these players will be evaluated. Because there are so many attributes, only the important ones will be mentioned: Overall, Strength, Trucking, and Tackle.
QB Chad Pennington's (6'3"/255 LBS) ratings: Overall: 81; Strength: 49; Trucking: 40; Tackle: 14.
DE Jason Taylor's (6'6"/260 LBS) ratings: Overall: 98; Strength: 77; Trucking 10; Tackle: 80.
MLB Channing Crowder's (6'2"/242 LBS) ratings: Overall: 85; Strength: 77; Trucking: 10; Tackle: 89.
The disparity in Jason's and Crowder's trucking compared to Pennington's is fickle and quite funny. How can a QB have a better trucking attribute than defensive players? Moreover, how could the strength of both Taylor and Crowder have no ability to render a tackle when their strengths are higher? Quarterbacks are not known for their trucking ability because they don't truck. When QBs break the line of scrimmage, they run for yards and slide on the ground or run out-of-bounds to avoid a hit (that's common), so for Pennington to have a trucking ability is fantasy; he doesn't even have the strength to truck.
Although he rarely did, it would be believable if a former QB like Michael Vick trunks and abuses a defender because he has the speed, agility, power, elusiveness, and more. In fact, he was known for making players look silly on the gridiron, but Pennington and other present QBs? Get out of here! It's foolish.
Strangely, there are even punters/kickers who have better trucking ratings than defensive players, which makes this glitch even more absurd: Dolphins' B. Fields, 45; Eagles' S. Rocca, 74; Jaguars' A. Podlesh, 35, etc. Never have a punter truck anybody in the NFL; it if occurred, it was rare. Basically, anyone can truck and throw aside any player in this game; the difficulty levels (even on All Madden) and ratings mean nothing. The physics is severely broken and means nothing. What a con.
POOR TACKLING
The tackling ability is poor at best. There is no other way to say it, because the tackling EA implemented this year is not authentic. Everyone (especially CPU) in this game seems to have the ability to breakaway and spin away from unexplainable easy tackles like never before, even when tackled by two players simultaneously. All the players on the field appear to be on superman mode. A player such as a RB can actually get hit by a defender, fall back and lose leverage, and without even putting his hand on the ground to gain his balance, he breaks the tackle(s) and continues running. The Laws of Physics demonstrate that such occurrence can not happen. This kind of absurdity can happen with any player, from a QB to a WR, from a DB to a PR. Don't weight, force, leverage, power, motion, and other physical mechanics matter anymore?
Hall of Fame RB Barry Sanders (the best RB in NFL's history) defied the laws of physics by doing some incredible things - and simply murdering and making his defenders look stupid: breaking 3 to 4 tackles at the same time; leaving his feet and landing on his feet; losing leverage and mysteriously rebounding; breaking heel tackles; trucking defenders; sniff-arming defenders with ease; escaping from two defenders while wrapped up; making defenders embarrassingly jump one way as he gained more yards or scored a touchdown; dragging defenders forward as he ran, etc. It wouldn't be problematic if a few players had some of these abilities, but everyone on the field? Not only do players embody the Sanders' motif, but their uniform seems to be drenched with Vaseline, which makes tackling a chore.
USER CATCH/SPIN-CATCH
In Madden NFL 08, the user catch was good and not so irritating. This year's Madden version is a different story. Under user control, a WR can run down the field open and have a clean bomb, but once the ball is about to be caught, the WR jumps up and does a strange spin-catch, allowing defenders to gain ground and make a tackle. There is no way a WR can be running down field alone at full speed and mysteriously turn around and do a spin-catch, when he could have easily continue his stride and catch the ball by turning his head around. (At times, the WR doesn't even react to the ball, even if it's at arm reach, when he is guided by the user.) Maybe this happens because the QB leads the WR poorly by throwing a bad pass, which is a common problem too, but it still shouldn't happen because receivers don't do such a thing.
The spin-catch affects the offense tremendously and seems to be an often occurrence. Spin-catches are done in real life, but the way EA executed this feature is unrealistic. When a receiver lines up and does a slant route, he does not jump and spin, showing his back when the ball is in the air, to catch it. In a slant route, a WR runs to the ball and reach out for a catch; if the ball is thrown high (beyond his ability to catch it), then he jumps for the ball with his face focused on the position of the ball in order to catch it. A receiver never turns his back, losing the sight of the football, and catches it in slant routes. It's not possible nor is it logical.
Moreover, there have been times when a simple screen play is done, and for some reason the RB spins and jumps and catches the ball by turning around for no reason. There is no way to explain why stuff like this occurs, and why EA implemented a dismal/impractical spin-catch feature when the game is marketed as a "real" football simulation.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE?
By definition, artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of a computer to execute functions that usually require human intelligence. No one expects the AI to be perfect, because humans are not perfect. However, people don't expect AI to lack the intelligence of common sense, and that's what they lack in this latest installment. They don't block nor do they care to block; they stand around and investigate the scene as if they are FBI agents; they miss easy interceptions by not putting up their hands, and more. These unresponsive issues are a headache. The user can only control one player at a time instead of his entire team, so he expects computer backup. Sometimes they act on impulse, and most of the time they don't. When the latter occurs, it is simply a mess.
For example, when a RB play is called, an offensive lineman (OL) could be directly in front of him as he runs and for some strange reason, the OL moves out the way and just stands there, leaving his own teammate defenseless while defenders are converging. Why would an OL abandon a block and simply stand there or aid another OL hold off a defender that is irrelevant to the play, allowing his RB to be tackled? This lack of common sense is mind-boggling, and would never happen in a real life football game. This is not AI; this is what I call PD, Pure Dumbness.
In Madden NFL 04 and 05, EA added a great feature that allowed anyone running with the ball to facilitate a lead block by pointing his hand, which was great for RBs (unlike the pointless OL Lead Blocking feature). Strangely, this feature was gone in the later installment. This is what EA is known for; developers put a feature in one year and it vanishes the following year.
The AI flaws occur in every aspect of the game. For example, on offense, a WR could be the intended target and when the ball is in the air, he doesn't even try to catch it. He doesn't even react to the ball. Many times, the ball hits him directly in the back. Every WR knows that when the ball is in the air, he needs to react and attempt to catch it, or knock it down if the defender is in position for an interception. Therefore, why is this realism not in the game?
Another case in point occurs on defense when the DB has a clear-cut interception and doesn't even put his hands up to catch the ball. Because of such stupidity and lack of common sense, the ball hits him directly in the face or chest. This is what...Read more›

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Madden NFL 09 X360

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Madden NFL Arcade Review

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(More customer reviews)Madden NFL Arcade is a simple 5 on 5 game that lacks strategy or challenge. That would be alright if it were fun, but it isn't. This game play simply call on players to toss the ball, try to run everyone over then taunt once you score (and you will score, non-stop). Rinse and repeat. I thought the game would appeal to family members who didn't want all the controls or depth of the real Madden but I was wrong. No one liked this game because even though the controls are simple they aren't responsive and the game play quickly becomes repetitive. The winner is whoever has the ball last. I don't recommend this game at all.

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Feel the excitement of the NFL with a fun, fast-paced, 5-on-5 football experience. Madden NFL Arcade brings the 10 best players from each of the 32 NFL teams on offense and defense together to battle it out on the gridiron.No penalties, no clock, just pure adrenaline, as each team has four downs to march 60 yards downfield for the score. Catch your opponent off-guard with Game Changers that allow you to break the game wide open in a single play!Play with 1-4 players on a single console, or take your game online with ranked/unranked matches, lobbies, leaderboards, and more.Madden NFL Arcade takes everything you love about your favorite NFL stars and stadiums and brings them to life in a fun, high-scoring gridiron battle!

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