Madden NFL 21

 PlayStation 4
User Score
0.3

Overwhelming dislike- based on 5792 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 85 out of 5792
  2. Mixed: 34 out of 5792
  3. Negative: 5,673 out of 5792
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  1. RuggedEmu
    Nov 11, 2020
    4
    This is the worst madden I’ve ever played, and I’ve been playing since the early 2000s. It’s buggy, the gameplay is bad, and the matchmaking always puts you against sweaties. It’s purely not very fun and clearly EA (unsurprisingly) only cares about people buying packs. Poorly done. Shameful, really.
  2. OldSilentHill
    Aug 31, 2020
    4
    This is 21, which has a 20 banner next to the field, which has a 19 banner at the back of the seats, which runs on a 18 version, which is actually a 17 version patched.
  3. RalphPrestwood
    Aug 27, 2020
    4
    I agree with most of the reviews.. the game actually regressed?? GAME SPEED CAN'T BE CHANGE so it's like a arcade, the music is terrible but what made it worst there's no ORCHESTRA music... I personally only have the orchestra music because the music is always terrible. THE PENALTIES are cranked up and it does nothing for a simulation setting.... I would skip it this year.. it's so badI agree with most of the reviews.. the game actually regressed?? GAME SPEED CAN'T BE CHANGE so it's like a arcade, the music is terrible but what made it worst there's no ORCHESTRA music... I personally only have the orchestra music because the music is always terrible. THE PENALTIES are cranked up and it does nothing for a simulation setting.... I would skip it this year.. it's so bad THIS IS MY FIRST REVIEW... madden 20 movements was more realistic ..... what the hell happen?… Expand
  4. Fishstew
    Sep 2, 2020
    4
    Madden 21 is yet another EA Sports copy and paste attempt at simulation American Football. The large majority of players have always wanted a more fleshed out Franchise mode. But, alas EA never listens and wishes to further antagonise their loyal customer base.

    EA Sports have recently communicated that there will be some Franchise features added to a future patch with a road map    Madden 21 is yet another EA Sports copy and paste attempt at simulation American Football. The large majority of players have always wanted a more fleshed out Franchise mode. But, alas EA never listens and wishes to further antagonise their loyal customer base.

    EA Sports have recently communicated that there will be some Franchise features added to a future patch with a road map revealed on 10th September.

    That is all well and good! But why don't they simple put a better Franchise element to the game on release. What is this great desire to make people wait months for a patch, just to get game features that should be in the game from the start.

    60$ is a lot of money for people to pay in these extremely uncertain and troubling times. Not to mention the billions spent on micro-transactions each and every year since they were implemented.

    But EA just doesn't give two hoots about customer loyalty and all the years people have invested their money into their NFL simulation game doesn't mean anything to them.

    People shouldn't be using social media to display their anger towards EA, as this will always fall on deaf ears. They simply do not care especially those at the top of the tree in the EA corporation,

    The only way to hurt these people is to hit them in the pocket and deprive them of the billions in revenue they have enjoyed for years. It's no good buying Madden each and every year and then posting a negative review on Metacritic and trolling the developers on social media.

    You need to make a stand right now! Don't ever buy another Madden game made by EA Sports and give those hard faced executives a swift kick to their salaries and bonuses.

    Don't let the fact that EA will sack those very talented employees be the blackmail that makes you continue to support this below average game. Nobody likes to see talent people out of work and the EA executives know this is a big weakness for consumers who like to support video game franchises.

    I know many of you out there have invested lots of real world money into building your Ultimate Teams each and every year. But this is not an excuse to allow EA sports to deliver copy and paste Madden games for at least the last 5 years.

    Let this be the final year that EA gets away with hoodwinking you out of money.

    Vote with your wallet. Not with your social media accounts.    … Expand
  5. Bcap1415
    Aug 29, 2020
    4
    Nothing changed from last year. The gameplay on defense is a bit improved, otherwise it's a roster, coach and schedule update. Not worth it
  6. Calrizzy
    Sep 6, 2020
    4
    Bug filled mess that has no ambition, no innovation, and just a copy and paste effort from the last few years,,, EA has dropped the ball a long time ago and seems like they dont care for their audience.... how can you be a multi million/billion dollar developer and yet dont even try...smh
  7. drcoomer
    Nov 30, 2020
    4
    This game is broken. It sucks because I actually noticed some improvements from previous titles. The gameplay feels just a little bit smoother than I remember. So I was pretty excited when I started playing. But then there's a ton a of bugs, the franchise mode is completely broken, and the slow-sim function causes the game to completely crash every time. All of these things simply ruinedThis game is broken. It sucks because I actually noticed some improvements from previous titles. The gameplay feels just a little bit smoother than I remember. So I was pretty excited when I started playing. But then there's a ton a of bugs, the franchise mode is completely broken, and the slow-sim function causes the game to completely crash every time. All of these things simply ruined the game for me and pretty quickly it was uninstalled from my console.

    Overall score: 4/10    … Expand
  8. MisterNoDaysOff
    Aug 26, 2020
    4
    This is a bad football game. More disappointing is that it is the same bad football game they have released for the past 3-5 years. The NFL license sells this game. The lack of a AAA competior in the football space sells this game. The game being good, has not sold this game in some time. I buy this game because I love the NFL and I love football. Not because I love the product.
  9. Boogiewoogie
    Aug 27, 2020
    4
    The zeroes and 10s are just silly review bombing. I played the 10 hour trial. The game is not a zero but it's not much better. Frankly the biggest issue is the cpu defensive AI. It's atrocious. The game is not tuned for single player games. However even in multiplayer you cant user everyone. The defensive coverage AI is broken and that infects the entire game. 4 points for some nice newThe zeroes and 10s are just silly review bombing. I played the 10 hour trial. The game is not a zero but it's not much better. Frankly the biggest issue is the cpu defensive AI. It's atrocious. The game is not tuned for single player games. However even in multiplayer you cant user everyone. The defensive coverage AI is broken and that infects the entire game. 4 points for some nice new animations and player user movement.… Expand
  10. Jester301
    Aug 28, 2020
    4
    Myself and 10 others only buy this game for our online Franchise mode and it has been bare bones as is...this year a worthless copy and paste. When it is the ONLY choice....we look forward to having a choice when EA loses this monopoly on NFL football.
  11. Beatztronic
    Aug 29, 2020
    4
    Yes I'm giving Madden 21 a 4/10.
    POSITIVES
    + Game looks good on the field with great lighting and a strong attention to detail on equipment and uniforms. NEGATIVES - Not many changes in gameplay ugh glitchy as hell. So many glitches it's almost unplayable. Framerate drops are frequent really hindering gameplay. Animation based movement is more noticeable than ever creating a slu of    Yes I'm giving Madden 21 a 4/10.
    POSITIVES
    + Game looks good on the field with great lighting and a strong attention to detail on equipment and uniforms.
    NEGATIVES
    - Not many changes in gameplay ugh glitchy as hell. So many glitches it's almost unplayable. Framerate drops are frequent really hindering gameplay. Animation based movement is more noticeable than ever creating a slu of unrealistic blocking, running, catching and tackling sequences making the game seem scripted. Slant plays still to easy as the user. New running cuts create a fast feel but look bad and akward not blending with the gameplay. Horrible presentation, no on field refs, lifeless sidelines no cheerleaders or fan interactions. Cut scenes are all over the place i still dont understand showing
    the actual game gameplay before the game even starts. Commentary is the same loud and overbearing repetitive nonsense that doesn't fit the flow of the game. The new YARD mode is shallow overall. If your expexting a NFL Street type experience you way off, as the yard is strictly arcade you don't pick your players or team it does it automatically ugh. Franchise mode is exactly the same ugh.    … Expand
  12. Apkmg
    Aug 31, 2020
    4
    Trashhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
  13. Milliknows
    Sep 2, 2020
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Lack of innovation... I’m pretty good at the game and my friends always tell me to buy it just to play against them. But trust me don’t. Any game is good simply by playing with friends... even **** games like madden. Franchise mode again takes a backseat, very animations based gameplay, very buggy, clearly lack of even a hint of trying. If this doesn’t change soon. This will definitely be my last madden game idc how much I love football.… Expand
  14. taban
    Sep 4, 2020
    4
    Some good but one very bad glitch. About every 10 plays the screen goes white while the play is still going. I can’t see my players due to this. Never had this before. This occurs in franchise mode.
  15. harrycole
    Sep 4, 2020
    4
    The majority of this game's overwhelming hate and revolt is from the Madden purists & traditionalists. Madden & FIFA purists have been in the same boat for some time now, being fed virtually the same game every 12 months and forking out $70-$90 for some updated uniforms and rosters. In other words, if you're a loyal player of many years there's a high chance you'll be dissatisfied at howThe majority of this game's overwhelming hate and revolt is from the Madden purists & traditionalists. Madden & FIFA purists have been in the same boat for some time now, being fed virtually the same game every 12 months and forking out $70-$90 for some updated uniforms and rosters. In other words, if you're a loyal player of many years there's a high chance you'll be dissatisfied at how this game plays, its lack of exciting and playable modes (The Yard is a nice addition but very shallow). Steer clear of microtransactions, and don't buy Madden 21 if it's Ultimate Team you're keen on. Franchise is key, and even that has faults and bugs. Having said that, there are long periods that allow you to forget how bad the game is. Another lazy instalment by EA who are no strangers to wringing cash out of their fanbases.… Expand
  16. Csylvester21
    Sep 10, 2020
    4
    My opinion the game is a little bit better than 20 but madden 21 is not that great. The game feels more like a arcade then simulation. Like for example, when you get a first down the fans in the stadium scream “first down” just like they do on superstar KO which nobody on earth will say that at a NFL game. And the pass rush system can be very overpowering as well.
  17. 2many2mons
    Sep 14, 2020
    4
    Ea ruins another game, once again. The yard is one of the only bright spots in the game, you can progress without paying a small fortune and presents fun new game play opportunity, and the character customization is fun.But even in the yard its still hard to ignore Ea standing in front of you in a thong shouting MONEY MONEY, GIVE ME MONEY! Ultimate team is a pay to win game mode, that eaEa ruins another game, once again. The yard is one of the only bright spots in the game, you can progress without paying a small fortune and presents fun new game play opportunity, and the character customization is fun.But even in the yard its still hard to ignore Ea standing in front of you in a thong shouting MONEY MONEY, GIVE ME MONEY! Ultimate team is a pay to win game mode, that ea shoves down your face. Face of the franchise is where you play through a bad story and too easy to win college games, that makes you wonder how this is the company that made longshot. Franchise is a buggy mess. All and all this is a bad game and possibly the worst madden ever.… Expand
  18. Requiescat666
    Sep 2, 2020
    3
    It´s a 60$ ( or more) Roster update from Madden 20...Buggy, Glitchy and broken, every year seems more like EA treats Madden ( or your favourite sport franchise like FIFA or NBA) as a Cash Cow, that sells no matter what they release
  19. AutoErect
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    I'll start out by saying the yard is a fun addition to the game which warrants at least some credit. That however is the only good addition to the game, Face of the Franchise has some of the worst voice acting I've seen in video games and has a horrible linear story where you are beating teams by 100 points and winning national title games but somehow get beat for the starting position.I'll start out by saying the yard is a fun addition to the game which warrants at least some credit. That however is the only good addition to the game, Face of the Franchise has some of the worst voice acting I've seen in video games and has a horrible linear story where you are beating teams by 100 points and winning national title games but somehow get beat for the starting position. Franchise is untouched nothing new was added. Almost all gameplay mechanics are the same from last year. If you plan to buy the game hoping for an improvement in these areas do yourself a favor and don't bother buying it.… Expand
  20. Mr_ManicMike
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    I love football, that's why I keep buying the game. It's my only option. EA changed a lot this year, especially the speed of the game. Defense feels extremely slow, making it almost impossible to stop anyone with speed on offense. Be prepared for a lot of drag routes ran from the slot that even if you user a quick linebacker you'll have hard time defending. The run defense feels like it'sI love football, that's why I keep buying the game. It's my only option. EA changed a lot this year, especially the speed of the game. Defense feels extremely slow, making it almost impossible to stop anyone with speed on offense. Be prepared for a lot of drag routes ran from the slot that even if you user a quick linebacker you'll have hard time defending. The run defense feels like it's better this year, well maybe more like it could be better. They added more moves to the defensive line which I actually love. Only down side, once again, is the slowed down defensive player movement, which makes it extremely difficult to actually get the sack. I feel like they were trying to take a step in the right direction with more realistic play, but they didn't strike a good balance. The most infuriating part for me though would be the terrible AI zone defense. Defensive players will stand there like statues as a receiver runs by. That and in a game which heavily features a mobile QB like Lamar Jackson, they probably should have left QB contain as a presnap line adjustment for your defense. I honestly enjoyed last years madden a lit more, as ushering a fast LB could overcome a lot of the AI flaws on defense. This year you just have to let the offense do what ever they want and hope you can stop them in the red zone or force a fumble.… Expand
  21. NxtDoc
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    Madden NFL 21 is nearly the same game as Madden NFL 13 on the PS3. Same animations, body sculpts, and gameplay. Thr graphics a poor.. I am not sure how they can not be better, they are only slightly better than Madden 13's, with just a resolution boost.

    Franchise Mode is yet again neglected, in favor of new ways to take money from idiots who spend money on UT. The Yard is unwelcome, I    Madden NFL 21 is nearly the same game as Madden NFL 13 on the PS3. Same animations, body sculpts, and gameplay. Thr graphics a poor.. I am not sure how they can not be better, they are only slightly better than Madden 13's, with just a resolution boost.

    Franchise Mode is yet again neglected, in favor of new ways to take money from idiots who spend money on UT.

    The Yard is unwelcome, I am not sure why some critics praise a new mode, after the mode most play FRANCHISE is neglected...

    X Factors are great... that's about it

    I had to adjust my previous score of 5 because EA thinks they can patch in the mediocre QB Kaepernick and the critical reception will go away. NO F YOU EA. Fix Madden    … Expand
  22. Cmortonwvu
    Sep 2, 2020
    3
    EA has taken what they learned from Madden Mobile and put it on a disc. It is nothing more than a money grab. I'm not paying money to open a pro pack. EA you have a ton of money, make a game, not a cash grab. I want to make me as a player, work, get drafted and be the best player in a league.
  23. DaBears020
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    Madden NFL 21 is a disappointment for football fans and gaming fans alike. The game is riddled with gameplay glitches that suck the fun out of playing. Many legacy issues, in gameplay, game mode content, and player models, have remained untouched. Franchise mode is still notoriously shallow and neglected, face of the franchise has increased depth but suffers from an awful and unrealisticMadden NFL 21 is a disappointment for football fans and gaming fans alike. The game is riddled with gameplay glitches that suck the fun out of playing. Many legacy issues, in gameplay, game mode content, and player models, have remained untouched. Franchise mode is still notoriously shallow and neglected, face of the franchise has increased depth but suffers from an awful and unrealistic story, and the yard is a decent idea with sub par execution. Improvements to ultimate team and superstar ok remain to be determined. The continuation of these problems make the game feel worse than its extremely similar past counterparts. The only positives of this game over the previous iteration are its new great-looking UI elements in menus and loading screens, and the implemented “COD” rating. Overall review: stick to madden 20 unless an improved version comes to the ps5.… Expand
  24. Imakeokreviews
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    This one is personal. Maddens been the same game since 2015 and I have mostly disliked them even though football is my favorite sport. I’ve had problems with the series but not as much to wear I never buy any of them. But since I watched a video on madden 08 and seven I am pissed off at what a cash grab this series of became . Madden now is literally the equivalent of taking aThis one is personal. Maddens been the same game since 2015 and I have mostly disliked them even though football is my favorite sport. I’ve had problems with the series but not as much to wear I never buy any of them. But since I watched a video on madden 08 and seven I am pissed off at what a cash grab this series of became . Madden now is literally the equivalent of taking a battery out and making every season a $60 video game Even though this one has my favorite cast of rookies I still won’t buy this game And hope you won’t waste your money either just keep playing Madden 16-20 it’s the same game… Expand
  25. Adavis2541
    Aug 28, 2020
    3
    It’s a 3. I’m only giving it that because of the yard, even though some of the challenges don't even work and the game freezes you sometimes when you play online. It’s the same gameplay with a dead leg animation added to the game. The lack of innovation is inexcusable for a million dollar company.
  26. Realgeese
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    I am sick of EA pumping out the same broken garbage year after year. Do they even test this game at all? There are so many things wrong with just the core gameplay that I cannot even begin to list them. Do not even get me started on the mess that is franchise. The community is FED UP. FIX THIS GRABAGE!!!!
  27. Carterb67
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    Same game, different year. Do better, EA. Otherwise I'll be waiting until 2K give us football back.
  28. conlinwi
    Aug 30, 2020
    3
    Madden 21’s downsides weigh out the upsides unfortunately. An already offensive-dominant game now has possibly the worst defense in any Madden game to date. Many of the animations are recycled, as are the commentators which are GOD AWFUL, and are once again unrealistic; not to mention the many bugs that come along with them. Ultimate Team has the right foundation, but they need to inputMadden 21’s downsides weigh out the upsides unfortunately. An already offensive-dominant game now has possibly the worst defense in any Madden game to date. Many of the animations are recycled, as are the commentators which are GOD AWFUL, and are once again unrealistic; not to mention the many bugs that come along with them. Ultimate Team has the right foundation, but they need to input more effort. The Yard was a good addition, however it lacks content. Not fun unless you’re playing with friends.

    Franchise Mode is once again ignored and boring. It lacks options- EA clearly doesn’t care about this mode unfortunately because it’s and exact copy and paste. There is so much untapped potential in the game mode.

    Face of the Franchise is cheesy and unrealistic. It’s far too easy and predictable. They should go back to the route that they had in the last NCAAF game. Plus the storyline cuts off after you make it to the NFL. It feels unrewarding.

    Summary: Madden 20 was a step in the right direction, but Madden 21 just feels like a dud. It’s boring, and it’s too similar to Madden 20. Many of the game modes don’t have enough content or were just recycled from last year. It’s unfortunate however I’m sure the pandemic had something to do with the obvious lack of effort    … Expand
  29. Beastboy2000
    Aug 30, 2020
    3
    This game is absolutely the same game every year but a different roster. I’m mad at the NFL please Take away the license EA is not using it wisely give it to 2k look what they used to do with it. In my opinion they had made the best football simulation game ever. I just get the game because it’s the only CHOICE it’s not fair that this is the only game I can go to to get a a nfl video gameThis game is absolutely the same game every year but a different roster. I’m mad at the NFL please Take away the license EA is not using it wisely give it to 2k look what they used to do with it. In my opinion they had made the best football simulation game ever. I just get the game because it’s the only CHOICE it’s not fair that this is the only game I can go to to get a a nfl video game #NFLDropEA #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  30. jcoffman
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    Here's an honest, fair review, even though EA has neglected the core game itself over micro-transactions.
    Pro's: Wow, where to start? There aren't too many.
    Graphics (8/10) are improved, slightly, and the player movement is a bit smoother. The rookie bio pics look slightly more photo realistic and aren't as jarring when sorting through a roster with current players and auto-simulated    Here's an honest, fair review, even though EA has neglected the core game itself over micro-transactions.
    Pro's: Wow, where to start? There aren't too many.
    Graphics (8/10) are improved, slightly, and the player movement is a bit smoother. The rookie bio pics look slightly more photo realistic and aren't as jarring when sorting through a roster with current players and auto-simulated rookies. A few player models still have heads that are too large for the body, but overall player likeness is better. However, this should be expected from a billion dollar company like EA..
    Gameplay (4/10) This might be a bit generous, but it's a least playable. Again, it feels like a patch but there are some minor improvements, mainly the skill sticks and d-line play. Playing d-line is a viable option now. I also like that the game play is slower and deliberate and a bit less arcade like. The problem is, games feel scripted and rely to heavily on animations. If a gang tackle is occurring and I'm running up to the ball carrier, I should be able to land a hit stick in certain situations (if a RB or WR is being stood up or trying to break a tackle), but you can't bc you are not a part of the gang tackle animation. Animations also take plays out of bounds which gives the appearance of a late hit, or it just looks bad. Overall, EA does a poor job of simulating real life football.
    The Yard, FOTF, MUT: (0/10) or I DON'T CARE. MUT has ruined gaming with micro-transactions (go ahead and waste $ each year re-buying cards). FOTF looks generic and the fact that you get the same outcome and only get to participate in partial college games is laughable. I will eventually try The Yard, but a last minute unfocused attempt to prepare for competition is not why I buy this game. Honestly, they need to package MUT and The Yard as a separate 'game' so fans of simulation football have a chance at a decent game.
    Franchise (110) gets a 1 bc the menu background is blue and I love blue. Yes, the text reads better but honestly the UI was fine. Otherwise, Franchise mode is EXACTLY THE SAME!!!!!!!!!! The scenario engine was neglected, so no new roster competition scenarios, trade, injury, mentor-ships, etc. was updated or added. This one feature should have multiple layers, yet is one layered and microwaved leftovers. Scouting is the same, trades are the same and still broken. No stat tracking, qb pressures and hits aren't a stat; sacks still aren't recorded correctly. There is no historic stat tracking, still, and you can't sign free agents to any contract type unless you are in the free agency period. Rosters aren't up-to-date nor do they have most undrafted rookie free-agents which is a HUGE part of roster building and adding depth. Within 2 weeks of the draft most undrafted rookies have signed; there is no reason these players aren't in the game or if they are they are generally added very late into the year. There's no combine, no rookie mini-camp/training camp; practice is stripped down still. You still can't adjust player arch-types within a scheme. The list goes on and on...and let's not forget the bugs. Lost of bugs. Some I haven't seen mentioned: cannot assign players to formation subs; when I load a franchise, the date for each save reads 1/1/20 and not the actual date/time it was saved. There are frame rate drops, especially when kicking and pulling back to look at superstars/play art, etc. Overall, this mode is as shallow as a drop of water.
    I give a 3, which is generous, as to me it's garbage--not bottom of the trash soaked in mystery liquids trash, it's more like a fresh piece on top of the pile. EA should be embarrassed and ashamed, I hope the devs are, but the executives who call the shots don't seem to care. The NFL sure doesn't; I get the exclusive rights but this product is garbage.    … Expand
  31. Stavasaur
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    I know I’m in a very small minority but due to where I live, I can only game offline. 4 of the 6 modes in this game require internet to even access. You can do the story mode for some reason. Also the new “The Yard” mode is online only so you can’t even mess around and make a uniform or do couch co op. The modes I can play do almost nothing to improve or even really change from last year.I know I’m in a very small minority but due to where I live, I can only game offline. 4 of the 6 modes in this game require internet to even access. You can do the story mode for some reason. Also the new “The Yard” mode is online only so you can’t even mess around and make a uniform or do couch co op. The modes I can play do almost nothing to improve or even really change from last year. Only reason it’s not a 1 is I do feel the presentation changes look great.… Expand
  32. UncleChuckle
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    This game is basically a copy of madden 20 with a darker background. The Yard is a horrific failure. Tons of bugs with that mode and Superstar KO that make them literally unplayable along with the same bugs as last year's game in other modes. Franchise hasn't been touched in years as we all know. The soundtrack is awful and it's been getting worse by the year. EA has all the tools at theirThis game is basically a copy of madden 20 with a darker background. The Yard is a horrific failure. Tons of bugs with that mode and Superstar KO that make them literally unplayable along with the same bugs as last year's game in other modes. Franchise hasn't been touched in years as we all know. The soundtrack is awful and it's been getting worse by the year. EA has all the tools at their disposal to make a great football game and somehow managed to screw it up.… Expand
  33. Domo423
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    #NFL,DROP,EA!! 2K needs to take over! This game is the same as madden 20 don’t buy this year’s madden 21 EA had to go. Bring NFL 2k back
  34. NickGotti
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    The Yard is fun but bugs out quite a bit. Franchise is the same as it’s been the last 5 years. Face of The Franchise is THE WORST. Absolutely boring and stale and is like to see it go away all together. I refuse to play MUT because all they care about is micro transactions. The yard is their biggest success this year.
  35. Ogbutters
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    Game is terrible basically copy and pasted last year. Made minimal game play adjustments and added nothing new and refreshing. The yard is cool but not as cool as it could be waste of my money I already want to break this game it is the same as last year with the same BS!
  36. Snowballguy8
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is terrible more glitches. The coaches and players turn rainbow! The x factor uniforms look like a 5 year old put them on when the players did a photoshoot with the uniforms on … Expand
  37. vagabond_1178
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    Too many bugs during gameplay and in the story and poor face of franchise story
  38. Sonicfan10193
    Oct 22, 2020
    3
    Boo! This game just feels the exact same as 18, 19, and 20, if not actually worse. Players clipping through eachother, stupid tip drill plays that happen every other drive, it goes on and on. Franchise and Core gameplay feel like the code got copied and pasted, The Yard and Face of the Franchise get intensely boring after minimal gameplay time, and the game just feels predictable andBoo! This game just feels the exact same as 18, 19, and 20, if not actually worse. Players clipping through eachother, stupid tip drill plays that happen every other drive, it goes on and on. Franchise and Core gameplay feel like the code got copied and pasted, The Yard and Face of the Franchise get intensely boring after minimal gameplay time, and the game just feels predictable and Boring. Rookie and Pro are too easy and All-Pro/All-Madden are stupid. There is a very good and justified reason this game goes up for a 0.2 on user score, and I totally understand why they chose to put zeros for this game.… Expand
  39. RockpoleonDyn
    Dec 24, 2020
    3
    Broken modes, bland storyline that doesn't go into detail at all, excessive music that you'll turn off within a day or 2. Bugs galore.
  40. Iwantfood
    Jun 15, 2022
    3
    Fully updated the game is better but still a total mess ya franchise did get some needed things added but the gameplay is horrible, face of the franchise is better but still not good, the acting was terrible, the yard is cool but the gameplay ruins it
  41. frogwipe
    Dec 21, 2020
    2
    Honestly, this game isn't fun. I've spent about 6-7 hours with it and I'm bored out of my mind. There's is nothing immersive or engaging about the gameplay. Can't control the location of a pass, the button response on defense is abysmal (e.g. I push the jump/'defend pass' button and nothing happens), the kicking game will put you to sleep, and in general, there have been no innovativeHonestly, this game isn't fun. I've spent about 6-7 hours with it and I'm bored out of my mind. There's is nothing immersive or engaging about the gameplay. Can't control the location of a pass, the button response on defense is abysmal (e.g. I push the jump/'defend pass' button and nothing happens), the kicking game will put you to sleep, and in general, there have been no innovative changes to the core mechanics since I can remember and I've been buying/trying Madden nearly every year for 25 years. I think I'm officially done until they actually make changes and code in some fun.… Expand
  42. ketexan
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    So I am going to try to be as honest as I can with this review. I don't want to jump on the hate bandwagon....but come on EA. This really is a disappointment. I am actually mad at myself for not sticking to my guns and buying this game even with all the reviews I heard and read before release. I did keep from pre-ordering, which I have done every year since PS1. I cannot say anything aboutSo I am going to try to be as honest as I can with this review. I don't want to jump on the hate bandwagon....but come on EA. This really is a disappointment. I am actually mad at myself for not sticking to my guns and buying this game even with all the reviews I heard and read before release. I did keep from pre-ordering, which I have done every year since PS1. I cannot say anything about MUT as I do not play that mode and never have, save for 2019 and even then, did not play it much at all. As far as the other modes, The Yard is actually a fun experience and I enjoy playing that. I like the customization options, but of course, this being EA, it is monetized heavily. If you don't mind grinding and earning currency through gameplay then this is the mode for you. I have been in this mode almost a majority of my time. I played through the FOF and like the other reviews on here, the story is horrible and its almost a slap in the face how they try to make it look like your choices mean something but of course they do not. It's a mess of a mode that they need to just scrap all together so they can fix franchise mode. Also like other reviews, Franchise is exactly the same as 20 as far as I can tell. I feel like I am beating a dead horse here, but EA really needs to evaluate the direction they are going with this game and either put in a better effort or just give up entirely. What this series needs is for them to skip a year or even two so they have plenty of time to fix everything that is wrong with this game. There is plenty to keep them busy for two years. Please NFL, either step in and mandate EA fix this game or open it up for other developers to take a shot at it. Competition is exactly what EA needs to get them to put actual effort into their game. I am giving this a 2 because the Yard is fun to play and I am enjoying that mode. Could have been a 5 but since they decided to make the yard another microtransaction nightmare my final rating is a 2. I think that is fair.… Expand
  43. HeavyMetalSloth
    Sep 7, 2020
    2
    I told myself that i would not buy Madden 21, but football season is right around the corner and i wanted to play a football game and unfortunately Madden 21 is the only NFL football simulation game around. So here i am writing a review on Madden 21. Below are my likes and dislikes:

    Likes: - Franchise mode interface color has changed instead of what it was last year as i believe it was    I told myself that i would not buy Madden 21, but football season is right around the corner and i wanted to play a football game and unfortunately Madden 21 is the only NFL football simulation game around. So here i am writing a review on Madden 21. Below are my likes and dislikes:

    Likes:
    - Franchise mode interface color has changed instead of what it was last year as i believe it was grey and bland.
    - Presentation when starting a game has changed which i was happy to see.
    - love how you can pick your own team in Face of the Franchise (FoF)

    Dislikes (i got a lot of them):
    - FoF falls flat on it's face not once, but multiple times. It is like watching someone trip and land on their face, get back up and trip just to land on their face again and they just keep doing that over and over. Here are my reasons for why FoF does just that:
    (1) If you play QB, your team will bring someone in to have a QB battle with you even though your rating is already at 99! which means there should be no battle!
    (2) My QB suffered an injury as that is planned in FoF and eventually played his first game back from healing from his injury and blew out his opponent, but yet the coach pulls me into his office to say that the doc recommends i sit the rest of the year! I PUT ON A GREAT PERFORMANCE, BUT YET THEY STILL WANT ME TO SIT THE REST OF THE YEAR! WHAT SENSE DOES THAT MAKE! I COULD'VE BROUGHT THE TEAM TO THE SUPER BOWL! JUST ANOTHER WASTED YEAR!
    (3) FoF NFL combine is so stupid it might as well not even exist. All you do is some throwing drills and a quick time 40 yard dash. Pure laziness.
    (4) The dialogue can be horrendous. Someone will ask you a question in person whether it be the media, coach, player, etc, but you won't hear them ask you the question as they ask you their questions via text, but yet their voices are muted and their mouths are moving. WHAT SENSE DOES THAT MAKE AS THAT IS JUST PURE LAZINESS EA! The dialogue interactions in this mode are just awkward and the worst i have ever seen and goes to show how mindless and soulless EA is when producing a game.
    (5) When your player is drafted it is supposed to be a special moment, but no. Your player just comes out and holds the jersey and off you go. At least have the commissioner announce you as the draft pick. Again, no thought went into this.
    (6) For some reason the menu music does not play when in this mode. I don't know if it is a bug or not, but i pressed play on one of the songs on the playlist, but still did not play.
    (7) The trade logic does not make sense. For instance i had to choose who i would want on my team. It was a HB with a high 80 rating and a TE with a low 70 rating. I'm like first of all why is this even an option! Of course i am going to accept the HB with the best rating and second of all we didn't even need a HB. Present me players that we actually need!
    (8) In the early stages of this mode why are your players responses in quick time! Let me think about my responses instead of trying to rush me!
    (9) I liked the idea of interacting with the media, players, and coach, but is poorly executed.
    (10) This wasn't even an issue, but just showed how lazy EA was. in FoF you will eventually see Daniel Jeremiah who will talk about you, but you can tell that he is reading off of a script and it does not seem natural.

    Here are my dislikes about the overall game:
    (1) This is an obvious one and has been for years as the game experience lacks that authentic NFL atmosphere and you have a static sideline, robotic fans, lifeless referees, poor booth reviews, the halftime show is still complete crap, commentary still sucks, coaches seem out of character at times as you will never see Andy Reid so pumped during the pregame as he does not display that personality in real life, etc.
    (2) WHAT IS WITH THE STUPID SCREENSHOTS AFTER A GAME HAS ENDED!!!!!!! DO THEY DO THAT IN REAL FOOTBALL? NO!!!!! THEY ACTUALLY SHOW YOU THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GAME AND NOT JUST 4-5 SCREENSHOTS!!!!!!
    (3) Franchise mode still remains somewhat unchanged! They say an update for franchise mode will be coming and that there will be changes to it. But i'm over here thinking why does it take an update to spice up franchise mode. This should've been done before the game was released, but i am thinking that EA was like "oh man, look at the ratings on Metacritic and the social media uproar about how NFL should drop EA we should probably do something". Will the update be worth it? Probably not.
    (4) The constant celebration prompts are kind of annoying.

    Conclusion:
    I was originally going to give this game a 5/10, but seeing the dislikes I have for the game and how the game remains unchanged I will give it a 2/10 because after all it is a football game and is there if you have the itch to play such a game. There is so many ideas and passion that can be put in this game, but EA remains complacent on where the franchise currently stands and we may never get the Madden we want.    … Expand
  44. Mankster3
    Sep 15, 2020
    2
    I’ve played Madden since 1996. This years game showed promise but still is a disappointment in some ways. One edition I like about this years edition is with the defensive line power moves. This is an upgrade to me as I always enjoy playing and defense linemen or blitzing linebackers. It works well and feels true to life. Kinda like a game within a game similar to a defense and offenseI’ve played Madden since 1996. This years game showed promise but still is a disappointment in some ways. One edition I like about this years edition is with the defensive line power moves. This is an upgrade to me as I always enjoy playing and defense linemen or blitzing linebackers. It works well and feels true to life. Kinda like a game within a game similar to a defense and offense linemen every snap. Gameplay is good like last year and players move on the field quicker. Graphics as always look amazing. Better than ever this generation. The Yard was added it's ok i don't play it. The Bad: All the music is rap and nothing else. Even in the stadiums all the loudspeakers play is rap at timeouts or in between plays. This is not true to life. What about Ozzy singing Crazy Train? GnR? Jump Around? The Packers touchdown celebration song is Bang on a drum all day that was in Madden 25 and was great. That’s not the song that plays, it's some random Rap song plays. Why not contact and confirm all 32 teams touchdown celebration songs and stadiums celebration? Go Pack Go fan chant in the stadium sounds more realistic but that’s about it. I miss the option for the Sam Spence NFL films music. So I just shut off the music and make my own playlist on Spotify. Franchise should be deeper glad they are working on it. Super Bowl celebration is poor needs updated. My Wish List: The micro transactions are crazy, this needs to stop. I have to grind a lot of MUT scenarios to get one player that is 77 Overall but then I can do upgrades? Just make a great player 88-99 Overall and call it a day. You can buy Randy "Moss" clothes for the Yard cost $18?! Not cool. Not much else to do in the franchise mode on release. #fixmaddenfranchise worked for us fans but why do we have to still tell you what we want in this game? Put refs back on the field, no way to pump up the crowd as a player on defense is a sad omission bring it back. Better commentary or real commentators. Give me back Jim Nantz and bring in Tony Romo. Shoot bring back John Madden to comment on some plays record his voice one last time in super high quality or go back and get his voice recordings as a third commentator! Give us commentary options of Fox, CBS, NBC, or ESPN broadcast with the actual commentators from those networks. Give us different options of commentators we like. They make enough off this game to pay the right people to get that full game day immersion. A live weather implementation would be great, I'm in Wisconsin and if it's a snowy-day it would be great to play the game and have the same weather conditions currently in Green Bay. Even dynamic weather, this is already in racing games. Especially if you are playing a 3 hour football game the weather should change with wind, rain, or snow. Even add the sun setting. NCAA 14 had this option in 2013 a PS3 game. I wish there were classic teams like in the PS2 days. NBA 2K has this. I can be the 93 Chicago Bulls and play as Michael Jordan or I can choose all time Lakers and play as Magic and Kareem. Why can’t I choose 96 Packers and play as Brett Favre or Reggie White or play as the 1966 Packers as Bart Star? I could do this in Madden 07 on PS2 but not ever since. They have the players association and classic player cards in MUT why can’t these players-historic team be in exhibition mode like NBA 2K? Bring back players history in the stats. There is no option to see who a players previous team was and what there stats were on that team. This was in previous games also. Add assistant coaches and have the option for retired players to be coaches. Have a coaching carousel. This is now in NHL 20 and is very good why can't it be in Madden? Bring back Mini Camp/Training. This was a fun mode on the PS2 you could do rushing attack, LB tackling, DL rush and Sack, CB interception/swat, Passing Drills with your QB's, WR drills it was great! Then whichever player you used in the drills you could upgrade a few points to areas where they need improvement. This would be great to be able to do every week in the franchise mode so I can upgrade my team by spending time with each player on things they need to improve like true NFL football. I think EA needs to use an open world engine and dump Frostbite engine as it was made for first person shooters...not simulation third person football.
    Overall I am kinda sad at all the features they have taken away throughout the years. Madden 2005 had more franchise features and again NCAA 14 had a lot more details and more immersion that is just not here. Why take so much out of a game when each year the expectation is that you will add MORE features not less? The game is fun fir me as a NFL football game. To each their own if you don’t like it as much. If they had my wish list which is very possible this game would be a 10. But it most likely will not for years to come and on next generation consoles.    … Expand
  45. LucaCritics
    Sep 6, 2020
    2
    Madden NFL 21 Review: 1.5/10
    This is unacceptable.
    Lazy developers trying to make easy money by building their 60$ game as a money milking machine, full of micro-transactions it's something that must be stopped. Repetitive content and bugs that persist from older releases show how little they care for football fans. I'm not giving Madden NFL 21 a zero because no game deserves that    Madden NFL 21 Review: 1.5/10
    This is unacceptable.
    Lazy developers trying to make easy money by building their 60$ game as a money milking machine, full of micro-transactions it's something that must be stopped.
    Repetitive content and bugs that persist from older releases show how little they care for football fans.
    I'm not giving Madden NFL 21 a zero because no game deserves that score, but a 1.5 is a fair review for this game.
    WAKE UP EA!    … Expand
  46. JackalopeThundr
    Sep 10, 2022
    2
    Sadly, Madden has not changed much over the years. I will play it on Game Pass and try a season or two, then realize it does not change and I remove it and move to something else. I think it would be cool to let you to have more creativity in the game: Build your own team or have a fantasy draft, create your own schedule each season, or even be able to move divisions or cities if youSadly, Madden has not changed much over the years. I will play it on Game Pass and try a season or two, then realize it does not change and I remove it and move to something else. I think it would be cool to let you to have more creativity in the game: Build your own team or have a fantasy draft, create your own schedule each season, or even be able to move divisions or cities if you really want. Something so I do not play 6 games versus the same teams each season. Now it is fun to try and destroy everyone and break records but that is only fun for so long.… Expand
  47. Braequan_623
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    Pros:
    Gameplay feels smooth and controls very well. The best that Madden has felt to play in years
    AI is actually semi-competent. Finally the games don't feel like you have to do everything in order to succeed Quarterbacks can throw out of sacks. Thank the lord for this Love the art style of the in-game menus and transitions The Yard is admittedly pretty fun Cons: ZERO new changes    Pros:
    Gameplay feels smooth and controls very well. The best that Madden has felt to play in years
    AI is actually semi-competent. Finally the games don't feel like you have to do everything in order to succeed
    Quarterbacks can throw out of sacks. Thank the lord for this
    Love the art style of the in-game menus and transitions
    The Yard is admittedly pretty fun

    Cons:
    ZERO new changes to Franchise mode on launch
    Face of the Franchise decisions mean NOTHING to the story
    The story in Face of the Franchise is abhorrent, to say the least
    Face of the Franchise Scouting Combine is a complete joke. The 40-yard dash is a freaking interactable cutscene.
    Back to the decisions in Face of the Franchise. After your first year, the game FORCES you to either switch positions or go into the NFL Draft. No chance to compete for the starting job in your second year. Absolutely ridiculous.
    In the NFL Draft, you can either "let fate decide" or pick the team you go to. Unfortunately, the "let fate decide" option makes you get picked by the Bears. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Did these guys go up to the beta stage and then just decide they were done?
    Glitchy menus
    Random frame drops, even when OFFLINE
    The Yard, while fun, is NOT simulation football. Superstar KO is NOT simulation football. Ultimate Team is NOT simulation football.

    Verdict: This is not a simulation football game. This is the kind of game the NFL is allowing 2K to make next year. What's the point of the exclusive sim-game deal? EA and 2K are just gonna be making two separate non-simulation games. Such a shame. At least the football feels good to play. That's honestly all that saves it from being a 0 out of 10.    … Expand
  48. Seanimus
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    Lazy. Half baked and exactly what youd expect from an annual EA sport title. Honestly dont waste your money on this cash grab!
  49. Erick561
    Jun 17, 2021
    2
    This game needs change. The franchise mode has not been touched in years, and it's the same game every year. We need a better game EA!
  50. Jasonarnold
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    I know people usually say man is just copy paste but holy **** this year is literally just copy paste once again franchise mode wasn’t even touched instead they dedicated their resources to a horrible new mode called the yard and face of the franchise that has a worse story than the last of us part two are used talk to text that’s why there’s no punctuation or why there is probably grammarI know people usually say man is just copy paste but holy **** this year is literally just copy paste once again franchise mode wasn’t even touched instead they dedicated their resources to a horrible new mode called the yard and face of the franchise that has a worse story than the last of us part two are used talk to text that’s why there’s no punctuation or why there is probably grammar shoes don’t buy this game… Expand
  51. Galahad7
    Sep 2, 2020
    2
    Same tired lazy copy and paste an insult to the fans. I doubt the NFL will drop EA because they lost their balls a long time ago.
  52. Rowdoss
    Aug 26, 2020
    2
    The fact that gameplay is solid, and arguably as good as the franchise has ever been in that regard, can no longer gloss over the fact that this game is so far behind its peers. The broken game modes no one seems to ask for. The prioritization of money making modes over the basics. Madden has NEVER released with this many bugs and glitches. This is especially egregious due to the fact thisThe fact that gameplay is solid, and arguably as good as the franchise has ever been in that regard, can no longer gloss over the fact that this game is so far behind its peers. The broken game modes no one seems to ask for. The prioritization of money making modes over the basics. Madden has NEVER released with this many bugs and glitches. This is especially egregious due to the fact this year sees the introduction of an arcade mode (laughably broken at release) in a year a rival publisher has gained rights to make arcade NFL games while EA Sports remains the exclusive simulation license holder. EA has chosen to put its eggs in someone else’s basket while taking a hammer to its own. The end product this year shows. And is the worst Madden in 14-15 years.… Expand
  53. eirik_
    Aug 26, 2020
    2
    EA needs to change their game on the most fundamental level. Franchise mode has long been ignored, FOTF is predictable and poorly acted/written, and even a whacky fun mode like the yard can't change the buggy, scripted football game EA releases year after year.
  54. Kalofel8
    Aug 26, 2020
    2
    The NFL needs to pay attention. I haven't reached this point yet but my friends won't watch games with me anymore. They were big madden players and because the game gets worse and the NFL keeps signing new deals they have slowly stopped watching games.... Putting a bad name on the NFL.
  55. Speagle77
    Aug 26, 2020
    2
    This game is sloppy and seems very unfinished. The bugs in this game make it unplayable in most of the game modes. Face of the franchise is a disaster that tries to mold together multiple corny storylines and stale jokes. Not to mention your stats don’t matter as the story line stays the same no matter what you do. The only reason I gave a 2 is because the yard panned out to be a fun andThis game is sloppy and seems very unfinished. The bugs in this game make it unplayable in most of the game modes. Face of the franchise is a disaster that tries to mold together multiple corny storylines and stale jokes. Not to mention your stats don’t matter as the story line stays the same no matter what you do. The only reason I gave a 2 is because the yard panned out to be a fun and enjoyable aspect however the bugs and desync problems make it impossible to complete multiple games. Overall this game has been on a downward slope for a long time and we’re finally seeing it crash and burn. Save your $60 please.… Expand
  56. mrdande
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    The game does have some minor improvements like smoother gameplay but for the most part, the game has been left unchanged. There has been an increase in overall bugs as a matter of fact.

    Face of the Franchise Mode includes additions in story and depth but there has been more bugs because of it. You can only get drafted by the Bears (unless you cheat and manually pick your team) and your    The game does have some minor improvements like smoother gameplay but for the most part, the game has been left unchanged. There has been an increase in overall bugs as a matter of fact.

    Face of the Franchise Mode includes additions in story and depth but there has been more bugs because of it. You can only get drafted by the Bears (unless you cheat and manually pick your team) and your play card displays the wrong archetype you chose and the wrong college you picked to attend. There are new storylines but it is not realistic at all. The mode is raw but not polished.

    The new mode, "The Yard," is a good addition to the otherwise bare game and it does offer some fun gameplay but unfortunately, the mode does have some gameplay bugs. The grass field can disappear at times and the ball can glitch out. One can wonder if the mode was only added to combat 2K's new arcade game coming out next year.

    Franchise mode is an exact replica from last year with no changes except for UI and a recolor.

    Overall, the game like every other madden in the last 10 years has very minor improvements and is nothing different from the rest. The Yard and Face of the Franchise are fun gamemodes but they are not polished and they suffer from bugs all over the place. I do not recommend a buy unless it is on sale.

    Pros:
    Smooth gameplay
    The Yard
    Additions to FOTF
    Cons:
    Unpolished
    Tremendous amount of bugs
    FOTF is unpolished with too many bugs
    Cheese plays still prevalent    … Expand
  57. EightyOne
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    Since signing an exclusivity deal with the NFL EA have essentially mailed it in every year and 21 is no different. The game is a buggy mess with awful gameplay and why that surprises anyone I really dont know.
    What really grinds my gears this year is actually the addition of a new mode - The Yard. This is no more than a half baked attempt to pull the rug from under 2Ks feet and bears no    Since signing an exclusivity deal with the NFL EA have essentially mailed it in every year and 21 is no different. The game is a buggy mess with awful gameplay and why that surprises anyone I really dont know.
    What really grinds my gears this year is actually the addition of a new mode - The Yard. This is no more than a half baked attempt to pull the rug from under 2Ks feet and bears no relation to the simulation football game EA are contractually obliged to make. Now we have 3 crappy arcady mini games aimed at children and worse still, designed to take additional money off them through microtransactions. That in a year made harder than most, EA synically decided to point whatever resources it had available at yet another half arsed cheese fest tells you all you need to know. Shame on you EA and shame on the NFL for allowing them to get away with it.
    Of and Face of the Fanchise is **** awful.    … Expand
  58. texsuber2000
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    Once again not worth I went against my gut feeling of not buying but thought "The Yard" could and would justify my purchase sadly the decision I made was wrong. To have a # about franchise mode and for it to still not be touched is quite frankly reprehensible. Madden is literally making me hate the NFL the game has been on the market unopposed and year after year the developers gives meOnce again not worth I went against my gut feeling of not buying but thought "The Yard" could and would justify my purchase sadly the decision I made was wrong. To have a # about franchise mode and for it to still not be touched is quite frankly reprehensible. Madden is literally making me hate the NFL the game has been on the market unopposed and year after year the developers gives me the middle finger. That said do what you want I recommend you dont buy this newest installment, if I could get a refund I would. I am so done with Madden for this generation and next until competition is introduced I will not purchase another Madden game period. And to think that no other game developer cannot make a simulation game to compete is like getting a lottery ticket and getting 4 of the 5 numbers you need.… Expand
  59. Jleyyyy
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    Same game as last year with no updates to franchise mode. Face of the franchise is extremely cringe Worthy. I personally do not enjoy the yard but understand some people might. I do actually like superstare KO but just like franchise nothing new. Save your money.
  60. Buckeyebrandon
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    The past four iterations of Madden have added little outside of some experimental game modes that go on to be replaced with another experimental game mode the following year. This year is more of the same. This is Madden 20 with updated rosters and a game mode where you play five on five. It is essentially a mini game where EA hopes you will spend real cash to buy cool visors and swag. IThe past four iterations of Madden have added little outside of some experimental game modes that go on to be replaced with another experimental game mode the following year. This year is more of the same. This is Madden 20 with updated rosters and a game mode where you play five on five. It is essentially a mini game where EA hopes you will spend real cash to buy cool visors and swag. I think EA has finally betrayed its loyal yearly buyers long enough that we have had enough. For the first time in as long as I can remember I will not be purchasing Madden.… Expand
  61. Jershy88
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    The gameplay is pretty solid. The graphics are good. You can tell the developers know how to make a wonderful football game, they are just capped by the EA conglomerate. I can pick up any madden game released over the last 10 years and get the same general experience, and unfortunately in come cases a worse experience. It’s a shame we are stuck in this same yearly ritual of being let downThe gameplay is pretty solid. The graphics are good. You can tell the developers know how to make a wonderful football game, they are just capped by the EA conglomerate. I can pick up any madden game released over the last 10 years and get the same general experience, and unfortunately in come cases a worse experience. It’s a shame we are stuck in this same yearly ritual of being let down by a football game, when clearly other titles have advanced insane amounts with no real competition. Madden should be a dope game. It’s just not. It’ll get boring soon. My PS4 will collect dust, then I’ll get excited again next June for M22. Wow - that was more depressing than planned … Expand
  62. arn_mdk
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Glitches everywhere in the game. My favorite mode franchise has been untouched. Added a broken story mode that lacks depth. Few improvements but the bad outweigh the good.… Expand
  63. Shy_glizzy
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is ass do not waste your time on this game the National Football League needs to rip up their contract that they have with EA Sports because this game is garbage.… Expand
  64. Nightmeer08
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    Rating it a 2 because only 2 things have changed that makes this game worth buying. The yard is kinda cool, not really my thing but it’s not bad. Moderate changes to face of the franchise make it a little more worth playing. But that’s it, the rest of the game is literally copy and paste. And as someone who plays sports games every year, no other game copy and pastes like madden does. NHLRating it a 2 because only 2 things have changed that makes this game worth buying. The yard is kinda cool, not really my thing but it’s not bad. Moderate changes to face of the franchise make it a little more worth playing. But that’s it, the rest of the game is literally copy and paste. And as someone who plays sports games every year, no other game copy and pastes like madden does. NHL lately has been doing this, but madden has been going too long giving people the same game.… Expand
  65. Vikkark
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    Somehow worse than madden 20. All problems it had intensified. Sims bad, career mode is bad, the whole game is a just the shell of madden 20 with a few updates
  66. InsertCoolUser
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    Same game as madden 20, but with more microtransactions, Franchise mode still sucks and hasnt been updated in almost a decade. If you have madden 19 or 20, just download the rosters and draft class. Your wallet will thank you.
  67. Zombied_YT
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    Same game same for the past 4 years it’s so bad the glitches are annoying the face of the franchise is to short ultimate team is a cash grab and franchise mode is still unrealistic
  68. Hiddenintheleaf
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    This ia a 65 dollar roster update
  69. RorySP
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    It’s funny, I used to look forward to the new Madden game every year when I was a kid. The Madden’s of the mid 2000s were some of the my favorite games I ever played. I’m not sure exactly when it started, but the game has, in my opinion, finally deteriorated to the point where it’s unplayable. It’s essentially a roster update. They didn’t even bother to change anything but the color schemeIt’s funny, I used to look forward to the new Madden game every year when I was a kid. The Madden’s of the mid 2000s were some of the my favorite games I ever played. I’m not sure exactly when it started, but the game has, in my opinion, finally deteriorated to the point where it’s unplayable. It’s essentially a roster update. They didn’t even bother to change anything but the color scheme of the menu! It’s laughable. Pains me to say this, but NFL should look to get out of whatever exclusive deal they have with EA so they can find someone actually interested in making a good game. Kick Rocks EA… Expand
  70. Tiredofmadden
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    Look at this BS! Now there bribing us with free games. This game simply does not deserve the LISCENCE it’s that simple. They got greedy because they did not have anything to worry about an absolutely no competition back when 2k was out they actually made good games but ever since they took the exclusive rights they’ve been making the same game only with a roster update. Cmon guys don’tLook at this BS! Now there bribing us with free games. This game simply does not deserve the LISCENCE it’s that simple. They got greedy because they did not have anything to worry about an absolutely no competition back when 2k was out they actually made good games but ever since they took the exclusive rights they’ve been making the same game only with a roster update. Cmon guys don’t fall for this. This can’t be it keep it trending. One day I WILL have a good football game #NFLDropEA #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  71. Maverick55
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    Same thing every year - will not be buying for the 4th strait year. I play the demo and am unimpressed. I go into the demo with high hopes just to play the same game it has been for years. Sad too as I’m a huge gamer and even bigger football fan.
  72. papap0st
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    This game is a technical mess full of glitches and bugs. There is 0 attention to detail as there are plenty of misspellings, wrong info, and copy/paste everything.

    Some improvements come in the form of general gameplay improvements. But the technical mess of everything around them overshadows anything positive. Misaligned players, broken plays, etc. I've experienced more issues in 2    This game is a technical mess full of glitches and bugs. There is 0 attention to detail as there are plenty of misspellings, wrong info, and copy/paste everything.

    Some improvements come in the form of general gameplay improvements. But the technical mess of everything around them overshadows anything positive. Misaligned players, broken plays, etc. I've experienced more issues in 2 weeks with this game than I did all of last year.

    Don't even waste your time in the "career" mode. The developers clearly didn't.    … Expand
  73. JoeMDemajio
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    I was really hoping for something new. But aside from remaining the same it also feels like it's regressing. I feel bombarded with all the additional payments, I just want to play a good football game.
  74. Jarmikou
    Sep 1, 2020
    2
    It’s honestly just the same game as last year with a different cost of paint. You can even find old assets from the last game in this newest one like before. It’s not worth 60 dollars nor 50 or 40 and shouldn’t even be sold as a newest entry on its own. Like I mentioned before, same game but with a few new changes.
  75. KyleGP
    Sep 3, 2020
    2
    Unimproved gameplay makes for the repetitive tackles, glitches, and animations you have been accustomed to for the passed 4+ years. Blocking logic is maybe the worst it's been in years. Clipping is still overwhelmingly prevalent. Face of the Franchise is horribly cheesy and poorly written. Franchise mode hasn't even made a small step forward. The Yard is a new/different Superstar KO, whichUnimproved gameplay makes for the repetitive tackles, glitches, and animations you have been accustomed to for the passed 4+ years. Blocking logic is maybe the worst it's been in years. Clipping is still overwhelmingly prevalent. Face of the Franchise is horribly cheesy and poorly written. Franchise mode hasn't even made a small step forward. The Yard is a new/different Superstar KO, which neither have any barring on the core gameplay that so badly needs attention. Microtransactions are a cancer consuming every "new and exciting mode". I really could go on but I'm already tired of saying the same things every one else is saying. Really the worst thing about this game is that the developers have such a disconnect with the Madden fan base and do not care to hear input. They think people are over reacting and bombarding them with negative reviews. No. We are angry at the clear lack of effort and POS of a "simulation football" game we have been force fed because of an exclusive rights deal. Executives at EA need to put a little bit of that microtransactions money into creating a new engine. The fact that a football game uses a first person shooter as their base physics engine should be all we have to know about EA and their logic.… Expand
  76. calebcoker
    Sep 4, 2020
    2
    Let me start by saying that I really liked Madden 20 I thought it was a good step in the right direction for EA, although it didn’t fix franchise mode it had a lot of neat additions like Superstar KO and Face of the Franchise which let you play as a college team. So considering all that I was very excited for Madden 21 I was hoping it would take an even bigger step in the right directionLet me start by saying that I really liked Madden 20 I thought it was a good step in the right direction for EA, although it didn’t fix franchise mode it had a lot of neat additions like Superstar KO and Face of the Franchise which let you play as a college team. So considering all that I was very excited for Madden 21 I was hoping it would take an even bigger step in the right direction but I hate to say this is definitely not the case. Everything is almost an exact copy and paste with new rosters. Franchise is still worse than Madden NFL 04 which came out 17 years ago. The only new thing they added was The Yard. I was very excited for this game mode, but it was a huge disappointment. It just feels like a worse version of Superstar KO. Speaking of Superstar KO it is exactly the same except that it added one new team to play as. Franchise, Exhibition, and MUT are also all exactly the same. Face of the Franchise is almost the same except they replaced the college teams from last year with new ones and this year it starts in the high school playoffs. The narrative is exactly the same that you come off the bench and know one knows who you are and win the game. The only difference is that it starts in High School instead of College. It added a lot of quality of life improvements and the presentation and gameplay feels a lot smoother but none of that justifies the $60 price tag when all of this should have been a free update for Madden 20. I also think that the main menu is worse than the one in Madden 20 I hate they way all the logos blend in with each other in that awful font when in Madden 20 all the game mode logos looked unique. This game doesn’t even have an opening sequence like past maddens. (Like how in Madden 20 when you first boot up the game you play the Pro Bowl) Instead when you first boot up Madden 21 you design your character for The Yard. This is extremely disappointing. So if you were thinking about picking this game up I’d recommend buying Madden 20, waiting a couple weeks for it to go on sale, or buying it used on Ebay in a couple months.… Expand
  77. Swolebody
    Sep 9, 2020
    2
    I haven’t played madden since M16 and almost all of the issues that drove me away from the game before still exist today. I’ll start with what’s most annoying to be personally. The menu screens, especially for Ultimate Team are so god damm slow. Free games like America’s Army Proving Grounds and Realm Royale have faster response times in the menus. It’s **** ridiculous the amount of timeI haven’t played madden since M16 and almost all of the issues that drove me away from the game before still exist today. I’ll start with what’s most annoying to be personally. The menu screens, especially for Ultimate Team are so god damm slow. Free games like America’s Army Proving Grounds and Realm Royale have faster response times in the menus. It’s **** ridiculous the amount of time it takes to load when simply going from the lineup screen to the auction house. And same with the pause menu in game. That combined with many bugs, unrealistic player movements, a lack of content in ultimate team, constant server outages, and the ridiculously bogus balance between the highest overall players in the game against low gold cards in solo challenges. Cards with 70 speed are somehow catching up to receivers and running backs with speeds in the high 80’s to 90’s. As for mut points and packs, I don’t have a problem with micro transactions. I have a problem with micro changes being made to the game every year that don’t affect the realism of the gameplay. When professional football players analyze the game and conclude the movements are completely unrealistic (especially linebackers and offensive lineman) to how an actual NFL game would go is all the proof you need to know the last many maddens are not at all an accurate football simulation. And EA sports can go **** themselves. NFL drop EA off the highest cliff you can find.… Expand
  78. Easyshmoney
    Sep 9, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I bought Madden thinking that the negativity was all hype. My honest opinion is this game is a hot mess. Glitches, poor animations, where the players get locked in.… Expand
  79. twalk9
    Sep 10, 2020
    2
    Only thing that kept it from being a 1 or 0 was the fact you could switch to RB or WR on face of the franchise. Other than that, game was like being at a five star restaurant expecting filet mignon and getting a microwaved Dog turd on a silver platter. Expected this billion dollar company to come out with a video game that would even closely resemble any of the products 2k has made forOnly thing that kept it from being a 1 or 0 was the fact you could switch to RB or WR on face of the franchise. Other than that, game was like being at a five star restaurant expecting filet mignon and getting a microwaved Dog turd on a silver platter. Expected this billion dollar company to come out with a video game that would even closely resemble any of the products 2k has made for basketball, but all i got was a glitch-filled, cookie cutter story in face of the franchise and a not-even-a-little-fun game mode called “The Yard”. NFL, please #dropEA… Expand
  80. vtseta
    Sep 26, 2020
    2
    For me, the lack of an adequate defensive perspective in franchise mode makes this game unplayable. Not everyone wants to be the QB!
  81. Supercat445
    Oct 1, 2020
    2
    Copy Paste Trash fghhhhhhhhhhhshshshshshshsshshdhdhdhddhhddhdhdhddddhdhddjsjsjssddnjjddjjdjddjdjdjdbdhddhffhfhhdhhhfjfjhdhdhhhhdjdjjddjddjdjfhhfhhhfhfhrhhhhdjdhjjdjdjdjdjdjdnjfdnbbhf
  82. Mybrosis
    Nov 14, 2020
    2
    this game rocks

    the voice acting for josh peterson is goood

    the football is doubled with john madden going OOOOOOOOOOOH everything that happen

    this game isn't as good as fifa 21 but is still better than rainbow six vegas for the xbox 360 which should of just copied armer and dangerous but didn't
  83. vgomez923
    Dec 1, 2020
    2
    It is the same game as it is every year. Nice for them to put mouth pieces after years without them! They really need to improve the overall experience of the game. Every year it feels like just a money grab. EA is so complacent due to no other football game out there which is sad. Its a disservice to the fans who have been playing it since it's incarnation.
  84. Taurus34
    Dec 21, 2020
    2
    I’ve been playing madden for over a decade and Madden 21 is by far the worst one I’ve ever played... The amount of activities you can join in it is cool, but the the actual gameplay can drive a person insane... All these glitches and ridiculous BS is costing me so many games and many crucial downs... If I’m running with the QB, WHY ARE MY PLAYERS STANDING AROUND WAITING FOR ME TO GETI’ve been playing madden for over a decade and Madden 21 is by far the worst one I’ve ever played... The amount of activities you can join in it is cool, but the the actual gameplay can drive a person insane... All these glitches and ridiculous BS is costing me so many games and many crucial downs... If I’m running with the QB, WHY ARE MY PLAYERS STANDING AROUND WAITING FOR ME TO GET KILLED?! GET A BLOCK‼️ If I’m running for an easy TD, can’t y’all just gimme a break and not have some bum trip me up at the 1?! I also don’t see how people intercept my passes so often without looking at it..., And on top of THAT, the soundtrack is WHACK AF... I muted more than half the playlist... This game is … Expand
  85. JumperZ
    May 30, 2021
    2
    Buggy as **** games feel scripted, etc. Ever since the NFL gave Madden an exclusive license, the game has been becoming worse and worse.
  86. viscid
    Nov 17, 2021
    2
    no game modes accept the cash cow mut, a forgotten about franchise mode, a terrible story mode, and a bunch of random crap nobody plays, and dont even get me started on the gameplay... its not realistic at all, its basically 100% animation based, the gameplay seems like its scripted, the same things happen every game, and it basically forces mut into your face expecting you to spend 100sno game modes accept the cash cow mut, a forgotten about franchise mode, a terrible story mode, and a bunch of random crap nobody plays, and dont even get me started on the gameplay... its not realistic at all, its basically 100% animation based, the gameplay seems like its scripted, the same things happen every game, and it basically forces mut into your face expecting you to spend 100s of dollars to make a semi decent team, overall madden hasnt been good for almost a decade, just a cash grab and no companys will be able to make nfl games till like 2026 so have fun with madden for the next 4-5 years… Expand
  87. TheThickness
    Dec 1, 2021
    2
    Another year another half done madden game. Very disappointed with franchise mode, they need to put more effort in that and stop only caring about madden ultimate team.
  88. Trayl
    Aug 26, 2020
    1
    There is football in this game. Aside from that there's a lot of gambling, glitches, and stagnation. If you like this game for MUT, avoid gacha games.
  89. Rudy190
    Aug 29, 2020
    1
    I've bought almost every madden game ever made minus a select few. I have also never written a review on any of them. This game pissed me off so bad I couldn't stay silent. EA It's not like the community hasn't been bashing you for YEARS on fixing Franchise mode. Instead we get The Yard? Should call call it The Inch, because that's how deep the game mode is. I'm so tired of it.

    2K    I've bought almost every madden game ever made minus a select few. I have also never written a review on any of them. This game pissed me off so bad I couldn't stay silent. EA It's not like the community hasn't been bashing you for YEARS on fixing Franchise mode. Instead we get The Yard? Should call call it The Inch, because that's how deep the game mode is. I'm so tired of it.

    2K here I come!    … Expand
  90. JBaldera27
    Sep 1, 2020
    1
    This game is objectively decent in terms of being an NFL game. However, as the ONLY NFL game for an entire console generation, they have barely innovated any features that relate to simulation football. While they have explored more arcade features and micro-transactions, the core gameplay and franchise simulation experience received minimal love. We can't even play with legacy teams likeThis game is objectively decent in terms of being an NFL game. However, as the ONLY NFL game for an entire console generation, they have barely innovated any features that relate to simulation football. While they have explored more arcade features and micro-transactions, the core gameplay and franchise simulation experience received minimal love. We can't even play with legacy teams like NBA 2K while the Frostbite engine is limited in replicating realistic football animations...because it's a game engine made for FPS not sports. I purchased Madden 21 against my better judgment to play CFM with friends, but the frame rate and animations are inconsistent. This feels like I'm playing a beta instead of a polished product, and for $60 during a pandemic I expect better. EA Sports has ignored fan input which is sad because the Madden community has been very vocal about features they'd like. The NFL should remove the "exclusive" license from EA Sports, as they have shown they don't deserve a monopoly on NFL fans with a half-baked product year-after-year.… Expand
  91. Dynako
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    I miss madden of old - its just become a broken shell of its former self and EA couldn't give 2 **** about it. I really hope they take this as a lesson but I think this franchise is over...
  92. HellaSavageX
    Nov 10, 2020
    1
    Holy crap wtf has happened to Madden, I am a die hard Madden fan since the beginning but this game is absolutely microtransactions garbage! PASS ON THIS YEAR! SAVE YOUR MONEY!!!
  93. Mattm27
    Aug 28, 2020
    1
    Basically the same game as Madden 20, many modes were completely ignored, and they tacked in a half assed gimmick “6v6” mode which is actually ONLY 3 users vs 3 users. Some serious changes need to be made to the madden development team and the game in general.
  94. Krikke86
    Sep 3, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. EA is just trash, let this maffia game publishers just go bankrupt… Expand
  95. Djwoods23
    Sep 5, 2020
    1
    It is literally the same game as it has been the past 7 years. All EA did was add a rookie class and then focus solely on MUT to make even more money. This game is garbage. Literally look around any stadium and you see Madden 19 and madden 2020 banners. EA couldnt even replace those with updated banners. They legit just cut crap from past games and moved it to this one and focused on MUT.It is literally the same game as it has been the past 7 years. All EA did was add a rookie class and then focus solely on MUT to make even more money. This game is garbage. Literally look around any stadium and you see Madden 19 and madden 2020 banners. EA couldnt even replace those with updated banners. They legit just cut crap from past games and moved it to this one and focused on MUT. Do not buy this game. If you have ay previous madden from the last 7 years then just play that and import the updated players. Until they actually focus on franchise mode and fix the entire thing, do not buy this game.… Expand
  96. CaseyMoe
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    Forget the fact the game is copy and pasted from the year before with little effort or passion put into it each new release. Forget that an otherwise cool game mode, MUT, is absolutely ruined by being ridiculously Pay to Win with the gambling card packs. Forget that Franchise Mode hasn't had a meaningful upgrade in years and instead has had features stripped from it little by littleForget the fact the game is copy and pasted from the year before with little effort or passion put into it each new release. Forget that an otherwise cool game mode, MUT, is absolutely ruined by being ridiculously Pay to Win with the gambling card packs. Forget that Franchise Mode hasn't had a meaningful upgrade in years and instead has had features stripped from it little by little until now, where it is a shell of a game mode.

    Forget all that. The thing that matters most right now is the game is just an unpolished, buggy mess and it's the only NFL game allowed to be made. That's why you shouldn't buy this game. You should not support and justify EA having the exclusive simulation rights to make an NFL game when they are making 100s of millions of dollars on it every year and they can't even take the time to make sure the core game is a quality, polished, finished product.

    They've obviously put what little money and man hours the devs are allowed to use on improving this game into the release of a new game mode, which of course, was created to sell microtransactions instead offering a fun experience to the consumer who just spent $60 on a broken, lifeless game that has less than a 1 year life span.    … Expand
  97. tomtom1315
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    You can’t even throw a fade route so it’s not a football game. Therefore it deserves a 1.
  98. Ahick420
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    Get a ps2 and get yourself Madden 08 or NFL2k5(the last good games) This game franchise is a joke. Literally the same frigging game with all the same frigging problems the last 5 years in a row
  99. Jpma29
    Aug 28, 2020
    1
    Same game but actually WORSE. Gameplay is trash and scripted. The only things this game cares about are microtransactions. Spend your money ELSEWHERE
  100. DJH32
    Aug 26, 2020
    1
    Holy disappointing, not sure what's going on but one of the biggest properties is been just re skinned for another year.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
63

Mixed or average reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 29
  3. Negative: 2 out of 29
  1. PLAY! Zine
    Oct 8, 2020
    40
    Madden NFL 21 is another blatant recycling of last year’s edition of the „simulation“ of the American football. Sadly, most of the modes remained the same. Gameplay received a few minor tweaks, and in the end it still persists as a cash grab not worth anybody’s time.
    Read full review
  2. LevelUp
    Sep 14, 2020
    70
    Madden NFL says goodbye to a generation with more questions than answers and with an uncertain perspective on what may happen in the years to come.
    Read full review
  3. Impulsegamer
    Sep 9, 2020
    70
    For NFL diehards, there remains hundreds of gaming hours at your disposal in Madden 21. These same diehards – much like players of EA’s NHL and Sony’s The Show – will be left with the impression they’ve played this game before, however.
    Read full review
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