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. ValueShake
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Terrible rehashed garbage year after year. When will EA finally step up and deliver a competent, modern day football game
  2. Brysoneum
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Once again, another copy and paste $60 game that is so lazy and so monetized that you’d think it’s a free to play game. Truly EA has no intentions on making a compelling experience.
  3. BatataKarambas
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Even though EA will most probably keep rehashing their games, I hope this is the first step towards thee changing of their ways and just give us a goddamn good sports game, I do not need to go too much into detail about the micro-transactions, as it speaks for itself really, other than that, there are too many bugs persisting, some of which were absent with the last entry, please stopEven though EA will most probably keep rehashing their games, I hope this is the first step towards thee changing of their ways and just give us a goddamn good sports game, I do not need to go too much into detail about the micro-transactions, as it speaks for itself really, other than that, there are too many bugs persisting, some of which were absent with the last entry, please stop buying this game, and to the people who gave positive reviews, OPEN YOUR EYES! This game would be much better in the hands of 2k, (who used make superior NFL games) or heck, even Konami would do a better job with them, we can all hope and pray for sports games to be better again. Oh, and don't even get me started with the missing features, Madden games used to be so much better back in the day, oh, how good those days were… Expand
  4. mtorc
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA uses the same assets, if you look closely, you'll see references to Madden 20. Pathetic and a waste of money. EA is evil.
  5. 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
  6. MaddenPlayer199
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is not a review bomb, I pre ordered this game and it is simply horrible! I am not expecting some cutting edge gameplay from madden but I atleast expect the game to work. I did not receive any of my MUT pre order bonuses and still have not even after contacting EA! The mode the Yard is actually very fun, when it actually works! I get disconnected or my opponent does more than I canThis is not a review bomb, I pre ordered this game and it is simply horrible! I am not expecting some cutting edge gameplay from madden but I atleast expect the game to work. I did not receive any of my MUT pre order bonuses and still have not even after contacting EA! The mode the Yard is actually very fun, when it actually works! I get disconnected or my opponent does more than I can actually play. Franchise mode is again untouched which is unacceptable. It’s honesty insulting the state this game is in with all the glitches and bugs. We need competition back in the sports simulation industry smh.… Expand
  7. B0rnC0nfused2
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    **** EA. They have been greedy for years and I’m done. Don’t waste your money on this **** Buy the TLOU 2 instead. At least it has good gameplay and decent story(IMO).
  8. Gochanour1
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same game once again. Nothing about this game is real football. Garbage. Don’t buy.
  9. CapScarce
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Complete garbage, buy a DS and play pictochat, you'll have more fun with that
  10. Bootneck98
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    just pure **** just **** EA please stop making a 60$ dollar DLC every single year, thats the same every single year
  11. Mass6491
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    No new notable features. Franchise is the same as 2017. Decals on jerseys and in stadiums from 2019 are present. Buggy as hell. No real effort in improving anything other than MUT which is a slap in the face to all Madden and Football fans. We want change. You wont get that with Madden.
  12. build3r
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I don’t think this franchise can be fixed with the same people. Changes need to be made at the top. Listen to your employees.
  13. Gregtami
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Yet another copy and paste game with quality of a bag of dog **** by the worst company in gaming industry. Eat my whole dick and **** EA.
  14. Journeytaker123
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I came to review bomb
  15. Twannetje
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same crab as last year. There is no innovation in this game. The only thing that EA CARES ABOUT IS MONEY
  16. Carter219
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Game is horrible. MUT is the same cash grab as the past few years that’s not playable unless you spend money. The yard is a neat idea but feels completely rushed and like a setup for a new cash grabbing scheme. Career mode is fine but has dry story lines with cliche unrelatable plots or relationships. Franchise mode is... non existent. It’s the same copy and past from 6 years ago thatGame is horrible. MUT is the same cash grab as the past few years that’s not playable unless you spend money. The yard is a neat idea but feels completely rushed and like a setup for a new cash grabbing scheme. Career mode is fine but has dry story lines with cliche unrelatable plots or relationships. Franchise mode is... non existent. It’s the same copy and past from 6 years ago that somehow managed to lose features. Anything they claim to have added adds nothing to immersion, strategy or gameplay. Any conversation is one to just click through without reading because youve already seems it a dozen times before.… Expand
  17. Djallday
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    FOR THE 4TH YEAR IN A ROW MADDEN HAS FIGURED OUT HOW NOT TO FIX A GLITCH!!! When I make someone quit in a head to head (H2H) game after about 10 games or so there is a glitch where the user can’t see their world rank or ranks of their opponents or their own stats. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR 4 YEARS. I will never buy another sports game from EA because they only copy and paste their games.FOR THE 4TH YEAR IN A ROW MADDEN HAS FIGURED OUT HOW NOT TO FIX A GLITCH!!! When I make someone quit in a head to head (H2H) game after about 10 games or so there is a glitch where the user can’t see their world rank or ranks of their opponents or their own stats. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR 4 YEARS. I will never buy another sports game from EA because they only copy and paste their games. That’s it. I actively sought out to rate this game because it’s this bad folks....and I’ve never rated a game before in my life on this site! DO NOT waste your hard earned money or time into EA sports games and ESPECIALLY NOT MADDEN!… Expand
  18. ChaseS350
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same game with an updated roster, EA is a corrupted company and shouldn’t have exclusive rights to NFL simulation games anymore.
  19. collegekicks510
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I honestly don't know where to start. It is a very sad day for fans of football games. We went from having quality games such as Madden 2005 and NFL2K5, to Madden 21, a game that is ridiculously buggy and sports the worst gameplay features and mechanics of the series. Every year the neglect Franchise mode, add arcadey mechanics and take away realistic ones. I'm do e with Madden until it'sI honestly don't know where to start. It is a very sad day for fans of football games. We went from having quality games such as Madden 2005 and NFL2K5, to Madden 21, a game that is ridiculously buggy and sports the worst gameplay features and mechanics of the series. Every year the neglect Franchise mode, add arcadey mechanics and take away realistic ones. I'm do e with Madden until it's torn down and rebuilt. I'm done until real effort is put in. Do yourself a favor and save your money. I promise you you'll regret this purchase.… Expand
  20. Ferjist
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 18 v. 4. The Madden dev team has been giving us the same game for the past 5 years, by slightly adjusting the UI and updating rosters.
  21. Rayelvis21
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is terrible! EA and the NFL totally dropped the ball!!! Unlike the NBA and 2ksports this game has set football gaming back 20 years!!
  22. samuel_b26
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been one of my favorite games ever since my dad brought home madden 08 when i was young. I grew up loving this game and playing it every year. I know how a good football game should feel. That is why i am confident in saying this is the WORST football game i have every played. MUT and the yard are solely there to inspire in-game purchases which is greedy and unnecessary. WhileMadden has been one of my favorite games ever since my dad brought home madden 08 when i was young. I grew up loving this game and playing it every year. I know how a good football game should feel. That is why i am confident in saying this is the WORST football game i have every played. MUT and the yard are solely there to inspire in-game purchases which is greedy and unnecessary. While franchise mode is given bugs and glitches that make it infuriating to attempt to play. face of the franchise gets my hopes up every year as i hope EA can finally capture what it would feel like to go through the process of being a young player in the NFL. Instead it is an uninspired, extremely boring, and rushed experience in which nothing is accomplished plot wise and the user has little to no control over any decisions other than how much of an idiot your guy looks like and maybe your number (if your lucky). I still don’t know why they can’t give you a name that the announcers can say, a voice option that doesn’t sound like the voice actor got paid $5 for a day of work, and an actual user decision past draft day. All of the game modes and extra stuff aside the gameplay itself relies solely on animations. You maybe thinking, “all sports video games rely on animations.” To which i would respond to an extent. Just because there are animations doesn’t mean that the players can’t respect each others’ individual bodies. Meaning i shouldn’t be able to run through someone’s leg, another guys shoulder, and a third guys foot just so the guy in front of me can perform a tackle animation. If you watch football you know that often more than one player makes a tackle, however EA simply can not make that happen because tackles are scripted for one player at a time. I will admit that more animations may need to be made to fix this problem rather than taking them out all together. However, if that is the case then why hasn't EA added more animations over the past few years? I have played each new madden for 4 years straight and i swear there have been maybe 2-3 new animations for tackling or ball carrying respectively. There are many more gameplay problems but, the animations issue I feel is the most pertinent. Clearly, EA has gotten far too comfortable with having the licensing deal with the NFL and have decided to suck the money from their few remaining fans, rather than listening to those that have loved football, video games, and dare I say Madden for years! I love madden but i now believe it is time for the #NFLdropEA… Expand
  23. usmc
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Ea needs to go. Its not funny no more. Its time we all stand up to these ****
  24. PMRSpecial
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    As someone who has played every single Madden up until now, I'm fed up with the disrespect that they show to the real consultation of their football game. Before microtransactions, it was all about Franchise Mode and how real of a game they could make, you know, simulation.. But after stripping the game of of every good feature and giving us a bare bones game since Madden 13 andAs someone who has played every single Madden up until now, I'm fed up with the disrespect that they show to the real consultation of their football game. Before microtransactions, it was all about Franchise Mode and how real of a game they could make, you know, simulation.. But after stripping the game of of every good feature and giving us a bare bones game since Madden 13 and constantly lying to us saying that your adding new features, but really just giving back a few of the many features you all took away in the first place. No one asked for the yard, but I'm sure that was a knee jerk reaction to 2K coming out with their non simulation titles. And also adding back in certain equipment and only make it available to purchase in the yard but not including it in the actual game was pretty dumb.... Sadly I'm not purchasing this game or any other until something is done.... #NFLDropEA… Expand
  25. Jaybuck
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    There’s not much positive to this game. It’s full of bugs everywhere. Face of the franchise is the sorriest excuse for A career mode i have ever played. The Yard is filled with ridiculous and honestly stupid gameplay and i have no idea how people can enjoy it. Franchise mode didn’t get touched at all. The gameplay is sloppy, pursuit angles and blocking AI are still terrible. The only twoThere’s not much positive to this game. It’s full of bugs everywhere. Face of the franchise is the sorriest excuse for A career mode i have ever played. The Yard is filled with ridiculous and honestly stupid gameplay and i have no idea how people can enjoy it. Franchise mode didn’t get touched at all. The gameplay is sloppy, pursuit angles and blocking AI are still terrible. The only two positive things about this game are 1. Being able to throw out of a sack (which is embarrassing that it’s taken this long to get such a simple gameplay feature) 2. Tackling animations are better (no, tackling itself is not better but when you do somehow tackle someone, the animations are much smoother) but if you like MUT it’s the exact same as the last 3 years just different pack animations and the same rotated players so i guess there’s that. Oh but it’ll take you hours just to set up your lineup because the menus are so freakin slow and having a separate menu just to upgrade, view attributes or compare players is the most annoying thing about it. I absolutely 110% regret putting faith in EA that maybe the game would be better than this at launch but here we are. **** trash.… Expand
  26. Gfbaylor
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Pre-ordered this game for the deluxe 80 dollar edition so I could play a few days early and get a good feeling of the game. I’ve been playing madden since 2006 when I was a kid, and I don’t think I’ve ever been more disappointed in my life by a video game ( and that’s coming from someone who was excited for alien colonial marines). The ups:
    Not very many to be brutally honest. The yard is    Pre-ordered this game for the deluxe 80 dollar edition so I could play a few days early and get a good feeling of the game. I’ve been playing madden since 2006 when I was a kid, and I don’t think I’ve ever been more disappointed in my life by a video game ( and that’s coming from someone who was excited for alien colonial marines). The ups:
    Not very many to be brutally honest. The yard is a super fun game mode that I hope makes a return in the next game.... New jerseys? We’ll let’s move on.
    The downs:
    I said the yard is a great game mode (which it is), however the glitches that occur almost every single game push me away from being so sucked into it. The face of the franchise mode was beyond disappointing for a handful of reasons. The choices during the mode really don’t change a thing, the combine is just a bunch of QuickTime events that don’t affect your performance at all. It’s also set on rookie mode the entire time, so it’s extremely easy. And the plot of the story doesn’t really make any sense. Plenty of other issues with that mode that I don’t want to go super in-depth about. Franchise mode is literally the same as Madden 20 but with the blue menu. Literally. And that’s my favorite mode so a huge let down for me. I’m not much of a mut player but my friends who have it say it’s the exact same as previous years but I don’t know for sure. I’d give it a 1/10 but it would just be injustice.    … Expand
  27. X3thanjrx
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Has to be the worst madden to date. So many glitches. People running with ball om heads even on there crotch.... Zones still terrible everything feels sluggish. Nothing changed just repasted skin and new rosters. #NfldropEA
  28. Thedude40831
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 21'continues the trend for ea sports and gets even worse. Its really sad to see.
  29. DinFireBebop
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Unfinished garbage fire with more bugs than a roach infested home. Copy and paste like usual NFL games. Don't purchase!
  30. Speedyboy
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is horrible, it’s a slower and laggier version of the game last year... do not spend money on it. (Played the 10 hour trial and didn’t finish it)
  31. HeyJohnny
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I don't know who people are still buying this game? Honestly Madden 21 might as well been an update "patch" rather than a stand alone. All the same mechanics are in this game. The bugs and glitches still exist. Even old recycled is used in this game that shows "Madden 20" The only thing this game is doing is roster update. The game has a lack of innovation and rather to focus on theI don't know who people are still buying this game? Honestly Madden 21 might as well been an update "patch" rather than a stand alone. All the same mechanics are in this game. The bugs and glitches still exist. Even old recycled is used in this game that shows "Madden 20" The only thing this game is doing is roster update. The game has a lack of innovation and rather to focus on the "ultimate team mode" which is their money maker. It is blatant that everything works in that mode, but everything else feels rushed and unpolished. A game released every year should be better than the previous year but it seem like every Madden series gets worse and worse... I suggest everyone stay away from this game.… Expand
  32. Charly234566
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just supporting the cause. EA schemes need to end and we need to send a message
  33. Kingsean275
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Already knew there wasn't any new franchise improvements, but the immense amount of glitches in this game is beyond sad. Do not waste your money
  34. Jblum
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is so bugged it’s unplayable this will be my last madden for a while.
  35. Blackout2-1
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been Horrible for the entirety of the PS4 era. Frostbite engine doesn’t work it’s meant for FPS games. The Franchise mode is what me and my brothers used to look forward too. We never play it anymore because it is so horrible and copy and past from Madden 13. EA needs to Give up the NFL tights and let 2K do it the right way!!!
  36. Manta_Rey3
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. #NFLdropEA . EA is a bunch of COPY AND PASTE MOTHERF******!!! EVERY SINGLE F****** YEAR! ALL YOU DO IS MAKE NEW GAME MODE FOR MICRO TRANSACTIONS! HORRIBLE!… Expand
  37. CallMeDucc
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    The feeling of shooting hot acid up your ass is a better feeling than playing the same Madden game we’ve been spoon fed since 2016. Fix franchise mode, or, if ya really don’t wanna, give up your license. We want a REAL NFL game again
  38. Tdizell
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Not much effort put into the game. Major glitches,non-football plays and a lack of creativity makes for a really horrible gameplay experience. This just isn’t a good game. It has been this way for for than a decade now. I was excited to purchase this for my son but my son wasn’t very excited because he read all of the negative reviews. We both see why the negative reviews were posted.
  39. jjs2000
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same exact thing as the 10 years before, should be a crime that they can continue to sell the same thing year after year.
  40. brandonkinsey
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    madden loves labeling their game as a"simulation" football game but the only connection this game has with football is the nfl license that ea for some reason has. but if you love players clipping into each other, running backs getting warped into tackles and offensive linemen with the iq of rocks, then you'll love madden 21.
  41. joey2324
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    There's a reason why its the worst rated game of ALL TIME. Truly baffling that after 15+ years, Madden takes substantial steps back. I believe NFL will terminate its contract with EA after this horrendous release. Not even remotely excited about Next Gen release. Thanks to EA for sucking the passion out of ever touching another Madden title.
  42. JumpTrooper
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    0 is the only thing this game deserves. EA have gotten lazy with their sports games over the past decade and their track record on recent games isn’t that good either. EA is a prime example of Corporate Greed. They spend a full year on Madden and FIFA just to release the equivalent of a 2 week patch for other games. None of the new features are even worth paying for either. The new Face0 is the only thing this game deserves. EA have gotten lazy with their sports games over the past decade and their track record on recent games isn’t that good either. EA is a prime example of Corporate Greed. They spend a full year on Madden and FIFA just to release the equivalent of a 2 week patch for other games. None of the new features are even worth paying for either. The new Face of The Franchise storyline is terrible. It’s a step up from Madden 20s FOTF but it feels the exact same. The new Yard mode is basically a mobile game implemented into a Triple A title. Oh yeah, and those mouth pieces that players have been asking for for years, that’s exclusive to this mode. Franchise is still untouched and MUT is still as greedy as ever. Personally, I think 2K would do a much better job with the NFL license. Sure, they’re also being lazy with NBA 2K but at least they have a quality product before they do so. Do I think it’s worth to buy this game? No. Not in the slightest. NFL games from 2005 have way more content and enjoyment than Madden has had in its lifetime. NFL2K5 is a prime example of this. It’s also exactly what Madden isn’t: Simulation. Sure EA might have the contract for a Simulation NFL game, but they completely ignore the Simulation aspects of the game and instead only put their time and effort into microtransaction filled modes. If you currently own Madden 20 and are thinking about getting Madden 21, don’t. Throw that thought right out of your head. There’s too many good games coming out later this year and next year to buy instead of wasting $60 on Madden 21 #NFLdropEA… Expand
  43. zlRYANlz
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    You'd be better off throwing $60 into a fire for more entertainment value than buying this game. #FixMaddenFranchise
  44. FolkTheo
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    the **** game ever **** ea give 2k a chance to make a game NFL. **** EA **** microtransactions and **** you, idiots, for buying this **** every year you ****ing retarded 10-year-olds.
  45. BatmanCritic
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    EA’s most disappointing Madden yet, I know it’s said every year but this year it really is Madden 20 in every essence. The menu is still painful to navigate around and slow to load anything, the graphics are identical to M20, Franchise is still un-touched. The gameplay has actually taken a step backwards, it’s no longer a football simulation it’s just garbage. I returned it after 2 daysEA’s most disappointing Madden yet, I know it’s said every year but this year it really is Madden 20 in every essence. The menu is still painful to navigate around and slow to load anything, the graphics are identical to M20, Franchise is still un-touched. The gameplay has actually taken a step backwards, it’s no longer a football simulation it’s just garbage. I returned it after 2 days and have gone back to playing M20 until M22 comes out on next-gen consoles, but i’m sure i’ll be disappointed once again.… Expand
  46. Bringo69
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolute trash of a game. Copy paste over and over. This has been going on for way too long.
  47. 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
  48. HokaJogs
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA has taken a game once exceptional, very thorough and detailed, beloved by many, and has turned it into the very worst sports game franchise here in the present. They have stripped this game of so many amazing features over the years that older maddens had. The franchise mode is completely barebones compared to that of Madden NFL '06, which was 2 generations of consoles ago. You areEA has taken a game once exceptional, very thorough and detailed, beloved by many, and has turned it into the very worst sports game franchise here in the present. They have stripped this game of so many amazing features over the years that older maddens had. The franchise mode is completely barebones compared to that of Madden NFL '06, which was 2 generations of consoles ago. You are basically paying $60 dollars for a roster update, and a few minor adjustments. Same graphics, almost the same gameplay, almost the same exact features on each of the modes. An absolute pathetic excuse for a triple A game title. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  49. Trahan79
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same **** as the last game. Franchise mode is what I play and it has gotten lazier and lazier. It’s the exact same game as 20, don’t waste your money.
  50. stud1o
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    not again ea, one too many times. you guys don't even have a physics based( as opposed to animation based) football system and the year is 2020. it's crazy. The NFL have signed over the rights for you to just for you to rest on your laurels as the SOLE provider of professional simulation football. And the state of the franchise and career modes is still sad. There's no negotiations withnot again ea, one too many times. you guys don't even have a physics based( as opposed to animation based) football system and the year is 2020. it's crazy. The NFL have signed over the rights for you to just for you to rest on your laurels as the SOLE provider of professional simulation football. And the state of the franchise and career modes is still sad. There's no negotiations with players, every generated player is a soulless husk that gathers exp until it hits 30 years old and starts declining. Because the overall of the players and how they develop isn't dynamic or at all related to how they play in game, there's no late caree rebounds or atleast position differentiation in the time and age of how different positions develop and at what age and/or at what rate they decline. this prevents storylines and makes the franchise mode , as you're unattached to the players, they don't express what they want, there's rarely any conflict. The trade logic is unrealistic and doesn't seem to at all take into account what either team's objective should be logically. (#32 ranked teams trading 1st round pick for veteran free safety, lol) you guys disrespect every consumer with every button they push in your game, and should be ashamed.… Expand
  51. Duane1016
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Game is absolute garbage way too many bugs and no improvements from last year
  52. Camtruh
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    One of the most disappointing NFL football titles I've ever played and I've been playing Madden games since 2003. Electronic Arts needs to wake up and smell the roses because I shouldn't be making this review. I shouldn't have to make an account on this website to express how fed up I am with EA's lack of love they show madden year in and year out. A PLAYSTATION 2 Madden game shouldn'tOne of the most disappointing NFL football titles I've ever played and I've been playing Madden games since 2003. Electronic Arts needs to wake up and smell the roses because I shouldn't be making this review. I shouldn't have to make an account on this website to express how fed up I am with EA's lack of love they show madden year in and year out. A PLAYSTATION 2 Madden game shouldn't have a more deep and rich franchise mode than a Madden game in 2020. Madden NFL 21s franchise mode is and has felt like a copy and paste for the past 4 years adding little things here and there. A good NFL football simulation game should actually feel like I'm experiencing what I watch on football Sundays. There is NO changes to franchise other than rosters and jersey's in this years franchise mode compared to last. The superbowl celebration hasn't changed since Madden 17 or 18. Face of the Franchise is and always has been a cheesy, lazy, addition and I have no idea why it exists. It's better than the previous two iterations only because I like being able to start my career in high school and you can skip the cutscenes more often so you're not locked in a terrible screenplay written by someone who's never seen a good football movie or show or know really anything about what a players journey is like to the nfl. Ultimate Team is the filthiest cash grab I have ever experienced and is so pay to win I can't help but ask, "what innovation does this bring to a football game?". If you want to remotely compete you have to put in way too many hours on solo challenges and games that it will get boring very fast unless your pockets run very deep and you can buy as many packs as you please. Sadly, this is the only mode that gets continuous content throughout the year which is fun but is immediately demotivating when playing someone who has too much money and all the latest and greatest cards. The Yard is actually a pretty fun mode and I'm glad EA put something worth playing in this years madden game, because without it, I wouldn't have spent 15$ on EA Play to play it. A company with as many resources as it has shouldn't be allowed to put out what feels like AN UPDATE and slap a 60$ price tag and call it new. Yeah, they will have updates, but you can't put a bow on dog sh** and suddenly it isn't dogsh**. Sorry. #NFLdropEa… Expand
  53. Catch84
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been bad for years. This year takes the cake, the new game mode the Yard is only in there because 2k can make an arcade game. Other than that it's Mafden 20 but worse
  54. ChiefVOL
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Another year, another bad game with little to no effort. EA shouldn’t get another shot with this franchise.
  55. Outjoshielpro
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    complete ****, just a quick cash grab that doesn't even bother to hide the fact that this is a copy paste of past madden entries
  56. D2TW
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I can't believe someone signed off on releasing this product. There are ridiculously amount glitches and hangs. I'm sure there will be patches but this should have not been released as is. It shows that by having a monopoly on NFL licenses they don't care about the product.
  57. jakethomasUSA
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The NFL should be angry at EA for having their name on such a sloppy, unfinished and stale product. For a video game in 2020, this is not even close to good enough. If you are an offline player, the game is unplayable due to the constant lack of attention to detail and overall depth. And if you are an online player, the game is unplayable due to the bugs, glitches and constant pushing ofThe NFL should be angry at EA for having their name on such a sloppy, unfinished and stale product. For a video game in 2020, this is not even close to good enough. If you are an offline player, the game is unplayable due to the constant lack of attention to detail and overall depth. And if you are an online player, the game is unplayable due to the bugs, glitches and constant pushing of micro-transactions.… Expand
  58. AkioTacho
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I have lost my faith in EA to deliver a half decent football game. I am done with nfl.
  59. 15koolaid
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I play Franchise mode I don't play MUT or Yard. They've made no changes at all for franchise mode so why keep pay 60 bucks for the previous years updated roster SMH. Hopefully NFL wakes up and give other's a chance I got excited that 2k sports might bring back NFL 2k because clearly EA don't care #NFLdropEA
  60. brodiebeats
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been mediocre for the past decade almost. The last decent madden game in my opinion was Madden 16 (and I say DECENT loosely) Ever since then Madden has been the same copy and paste poopshow for 5 years straight. Legacy issues & bugs still havent been fixed. Features from old games non existent. Terrible & Lazy Franchise mode. Buggy and awful career mode. I could go on & on aboutMadden has been mediocre for the past decade almost. The last decent madden game in my opinion was Madden 16 (and I say DECENT loosely) Ever since then Madden has been the same copy and paste poopshow for 5 years straight. Legacy issues & bugs still havent been fixed. Features from old games non existent. Terrible & Lazy Franchise mode. Buggy and awful career mode. I could go on & on about how terrible Madden has become. I BEG ANYONE READING THIS DO NOT SPEND A SINGLE DIME ON THE GAME. EA IS LAZY & GREEDY… Expand
  61. FixFranchise
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA is just disrespecting its loyal fans at this point not providing slight improvements to the very basic wants of the fanbase. When EA backpedaled and had to say they're updating franchise throughout the year is unacceptable and proof of their incompetence. Do yourself a favor ,dont buy the game until they earn back your money and respect by listening to the fanbase and updating theEA is just disrespecting its loyal fans at this point not providing slight improvements to the very basic wants of the fanbase. When EA backpedaled and had to say they're updating franchise throughout the year is unacceptable and proof of their incompetence. Do yourself a favor ,dont buy the game until they earn back your money and respect by listening to the fanbase and updating the simple requests instead of focusing their efforts and yet another mode with microtransactions.… Expand
  62. DaltonM20
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Glitchy, extremely buggy, and the same game for the last 4 years. The NFL needs to drop EA. The addition of the Yard was just a BS mode designed to look like EA out work into this game. Franchise has not been touched. Gameplay is awful. The only thing EA puts any attention into us MUT for micro transactions. I don’t feel like paying for packs to have a chance to win any games and I’m notGlitchy, extremely buggy, and the same game for the last 4 years. The NFL needs to drop EA. The addition of the Yard was just a BS mode designed to look like EA out work into this game. Franchise has not been touched. Gameplay is awful. The only thing EA puts any attention into us MUT for micro transactions. I don’t feel like paying for packs to have a chance to win any games and I’m not making madden my second job when I come home from work so I can get a mid 80’s card at the end of 50 games. EA is playing it’s fan base and people still buy the product and dump money into MUT. Stop being played, demand a better product for your money. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  63. FalconSexHat
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Nothing added. Copy and pasted from Madden 20, literal Madden 20 and 19 logos still in this game.
  64. jackm0429
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    nothing much has changed yet again in this, EA needs to listen to us and actually add features we want. The Yard is new but its just bad
  65. specialK90
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I've nearly purchased every madden since 2005. This is by far the smallest amount of effort put into the game. Its identical to last years game. This has to stop.
  66. JDLondon87
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    When one plays whisper down the lane, the original message slowly becomes fuzzy and unrecognizable to the original whisperer. Madden 21 is just that, it is the outcome of years of copy and paste. Each year becoming a little bit less, until you reach this milestone, where the game no longer even remotely resembles the product the NFL puts out. It over time has become fuzzy andWhen one plays whisper down the lane, the original message slowly becomes fuzzy and unrecognizable to the original whisperer. Madden 21 is just that, it is the outcome of years of copy and paste. Each year becoming a little bit less, until you reach this milestone, where the game no longer even remotely resembles the product the NFL puts out. It over time has become fuzzy and unrecognizable. If I were EA or The NFL I would be embarrassed.… Expand
  67. jmm15412
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is an atrocity. Franchise mode has been abysmal for the last 8 years. Like please give us offline gamers a reason to buy the game. Let us relocate/rebrand. Let us sign assistant coaches. Let us meet with and ask college players questions before the draft to see if they fit in with how we want to build our team!!! Another issue, why does the 2nd preseason game have the same exact energy has a Week 17 game against a rival with the division on the line??? Why isn’t there a halftime show with more highlights and analysts discussing what teams or players could be doing better or what players have been playing well? I’m sure Menefee, Bradshaw, Long, Strahan and Johnson would love to be in the game! For god sakes get rid or this commentary team. Give us Nantz and Romo. Face of the Franchise is horrible. Flat out horrible. How are you going to market the combine to us and then have the 40 yard dash be a cut scene!? Saying the story itself is cringeworthy is giving it too much credit. It stinks! No matter how good or bad you play, you always seem to get drafted by the Bears? Where’s the fun in playing if it’s preset to where you go? Next, the presentation hasn’t changed over the last 4 years!!! The Super Bowl celebration has been virtually identical since 2017! One of my biggest gripes with this game (and Madden in general for current-gen) other than how bad Franchise is, has been the immersion aspect. I’ve owned every Madden since ‘03. EA needs to explain how Maddens on PS2 and PS3 have been far better and far more fun than the PS4 installments! For the life of me I just don’t understand why we can’t get a real career mode!! How we play in college and the combine should affect our ranking on draft boards. How sick would it be if they had NFL analysts sitting at a desk at the draft talking about your player and his college stats and combine on the night of the draft!!?!? Have your college player meet with teams and their coaches to discuss how well you fit in before draft night!! Scouting just needs a complete overhaul. Blocking needs to be overhauled. I don’t need my TE running past an untouched LB to block a safety 15 yards down field on a stretch play. Then you have little things like typos, grammatical errors, glitches. Really? Madden 21 is an unfinished product. Tbh I think they should’ve skipped the current gen version and put all of their efforts into the PS5 and new Xbox installments of the game. But based off the fact they’ve wasted an entire generation of consoles with the Maddens for PS4 and Xbox 1 I don’t have high hopes for next-gen.… Expand
  68. Tymboslice
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Do not buy this pathetic football "simulation" game. EA Sports spent minimal time and zero effort improving the game the last 3 years. There are constant glitches, spelling errors, lack of creativity and realism. Save your money and don't give it to EA Sports.
  69. Blah7204
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is an absolutely atrocious, awful, cheap, crummy, dreadful, lousy, poor, sad, unacceptable, terrible pile of garbage.
  70. kingpin202
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I really thought this would be the year to jump back in. My first Madden since Madden 17, which I thought was alright. Had the fancy catching mechanics. Regardless, this is much worse. Everything is so clunky. What happened to smooth gameplay? I don't care for realistic faces, I just want the game to run and to run smooth. Not feel like dial up back when I played diablo 2.

    It made me    I really thought this would be the year to jump back in. My first Madden since Madden 17, which I thought was alright. Had the fancy catching mechanics. Regardless, this is much worse. Everything is so clunky. What happened to smooth gameplay? I don't care for realistic faces, I just want the game to run and to run smooth. Not feel like dial up back when I played diablo 2.

    It made me think real hard on maybe pulling the xbox 360 out just to play NCAA 14... which was the last good football game. Back when EA cared a little bit.

    It seriously made me debate pulling out and hooking up my Xbox 360, as I know my NCAA 14 was smooth as far as gameplay. I miss the NCAA games, and well when EA cared.    … Expand
  71. ccclan14
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Controls are bad the glitches and lag are herendous it is honestly completely unplayable in the current state
  72. are0526
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It's just not good, we're fed up with it. Madden could have so much potential if they just TRY, but no, we get recycled garbage year after year. At least we know how EA views there customers.
  73. nicmcc
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is horrendous. The Madden franchise is only getting worse and worse every year. EA only cares about monetization and not what the community wants. Definitely do not buy!
  74. hirokietsuko
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I never played Madden, I played a little of old Fifas during my life, but I always knew what EA is.
    Which is why I never bought any game from them. So, I'm here to help. My most sincere fu** you, EA.
  75. Brentw52
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Its literally copy and paste, buggy and sad in an already sad franchise of games.
  76. 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...
  77. neillenhoff
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I unfortunately bought the game on PS4 and got the demo on XBOX. Both versions are huge disappointments.
  78. SuperiorDrinkin
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    Year after year they keep making promises and then mocking the consumer when we are let down. But we are not consumers. At this point we are investors in EA but There is little to no return. So many of us are just let down and can no longer support this game. The amount of issues this game stills has is astonishing. Do Not buy this game.
  79. sentiinex
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I made an account on Metacritic just to review this trash. What a waste. Waste of money, waste of time, waste of developer resources, waste of the potential of a good NFL video game. It's the same garbage over and over again, year after year - but it's actually worse than that. Features are being taken out and replaced with junk that nobody asked for and that nobody cares about. New bugsI made an account on Metacritic just to review this trash. What a waste. Waste of money, waste of time, waste of developer resources, waste of the potential of a good NFL video game. It's the same garbage over and over again, year after year - but it's actually worse than that. Features are being taken out and replaced with junk that nobody asked for and that nobody cares about. New bugs show up and by the time they are fixed, it's time for the next Madden. What an embarrassment. I don't know how the devs and the team responsible for working in this game can continue working for such a trash company. Go do something productive and fulfilling with your lives.… Expand
  80. Jakobemcboy
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    madden 2007 on a fcking ps 2 is less glitchy and bugged than this and will save you 55 dollars. all you will be buying is a s**** game with only a new roster update DONT BUY THIS PIECE OFF CRAP #ENDEA
  81. Jackforman
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is sad. Madden used to be one of my favorite games and now they rehash the same game year after year. Where is the customization? Where is is upgraded game engine and physics? Where is the authenticity on the field? Until we stop buying this crap they won’t change.. also someone take the license from EA and bring back NFL Street... sincerely everyone
  82. BURKEX
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I played madden since the genesis days and have always enjoyed madden, but lately Madden has ignored the franchise, not fixed horrible bugs, has a horrible instant replay where you can’t even replay clear bad calls, and the list goes on and on. All Madden seems to care about lately is the MUT types of games where they make extra money off of micro transactions and this ruined madden. II played madden since the genesis days and have always enjoyed madden, but lately Madden has ignored the franchise, not fixed horrible bugs, has a horrible instant replay where you can’t even replay clear bad calls, and the list goes on and on. All Madden seems to care about lately is the MUT types of games where they make extra money off of micro transactions and this ruined madden. I like many others think the franchise is the best part of madden and madden has neglected franchise for so long that it is terrible. Just an example, the trade system is so bad and unrealistic and the super bowl celebration has been the same for years. Since EA has a monopoly on the NFL video game rights they don’t even try anymore and the game is now a piece of crap. 0/10. Fix franchise. The NFL should dump EA if this is not addressed ASAP!… Expand
  83. EvilMrJingles
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    A poor excuse for a game, recycled animations and assets, no significant gameplay additions, each iteration seems to have less and less features, absolutely zero polish (did they even play tested this thing?!?) and micro transactions galore on top of that?
    Thanks but no thanks.
  84. BiggyWooDZ
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just a video game titan company encouraging underage gambling through MUT packs. What's scary is that EA isn't even trying to hide it anymore. They've given up entirely on Franchise mode, literally copy pasting it from Madden 20 (probably because there's no additional money to be made there even though it's the most popular game mode), they're emphasising these new face of the franchiseJust a video game titan company encouraging underage gambling through MUT packs. What's scary is that EA isn't even trying to hide it anymore. They've given up entirely on Franchise mode, literally copy pasting it from Madden 20 (probably because there's no additional money to be made there even though it's the most popular game mode), they're emphasising these new face of the franchise campaign modes (because yes, we want drama related story telling in our "football simulator"), oh and the game is downright unplayable at times due to glitches. Avoid this game like the plague, it is terrible, and EA needs to understand that the Madden community has had enough. Oh did I mention I got a code to redeem it for free from a streamer? Yeah it's that bad that I'm insulted to play it even though it was free.… Expand
  85. Kyrtx
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    NFL 21 feels bland, I was expecting a completely refreshed game with a new feel, instead I got the same game with a different number, it lacks work in many ways
  86. nflrocks24
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Fire Clint Oldenburg. He is absolutely awful with no inventive to care about his customers.
  87. Ryan37042
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It is the same thing I don’t know how they are getting away with this. Again and again
  88. Apkmg
    Aug 31, 2020
    4
    Trashhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
  89. Grindeym
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    ALL THEY DID WAS CHANGE THE FONT. LITERALLY. They had a YEAR to make ANY noticeable improvements to this game and THEY JUST CHANGED THE FONT
  90. Deepwinter
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Bad so bad aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaakksskskskskkskskskskDbjdebbfbfhfhfhfhfjxjdjxjjxjdjdjxjfjfjfjucucuffsks
  91. TossGawd
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Copy and paste is the name of the game. If madden 21 went to college, it would be expelled due to plagiarism. Unfinished game with a ton of glitches. Had more fun playing flappy bird back in 2013.
  92. Travain
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is a shame, EA is a shame, all is SHAME. Thank you for read this review.
  93. GimmeTheBomb
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Franchise mode is freaking untouched... Endless bugs and gameplay glitches. Still the same animation-based pile of trash that we've been getting for years. Oh a new game mode you say? Say hello to more microtransactions. As a long time franchise player I'm ecstatic with the response from the community this year. Enough is enough.
  94. IamsDog
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The last time I played a Madden game was when i was in the third grade. I've now near graduating and I can say this franchise has gone down to a new low. I will never purchase a Madden game anymore as I feel like the consumers are being used. Imagine if you bought a GTX 1080 branded as an RTX 3090 because that's what it really feels like. I'd really hope that NFL chooses to drop theThe last time I played a Madden game was when i was in the third grade. I've now near graduating and I can say this franchise has gone down to a new low. I will never purchase a Madden game anymore as I feel like the consumers are being used. Imagine if you bought a GTX 1080 branded as an RTX 3090 because that's what it really feels like. I'd really hope that NFL chooses to drop the franchise entirely as my childhood is being absolutely annihilated.… Expand
  95. Mpsmania
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA is a crap company, we need another gaming company to make these sports game . Change of skin but same game. RIP OFF
  96. Wdiamond
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same **** game as last year. Updated ratings. EA doesn’t give a **** about the quality of the franchise.
  97. frankiem813
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    worst madden i've ever seen. same fans. same jerseys. horrible attributes. horrible card arts. same game four years in a row. get ea out of there. won't be buying another game. horrible
  98. IronFlash101
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I can't believe this crap I was like I will give Madden 21 one last hope for the franchise and guess what they drop the ball surprise surprise this will be the LAST one I will buy in Narutos own words "Believe it"
  99. Cbichler22
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely the sorriest excuse for a football game yet from EA. Please stop spending money on poorly made video games like this #nfldropea
  100. champignon255
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Not an ounce of fun to be had in this game. Same core game-play, no new innovations in franchise, a tacked on yard mode, same old pay to win MUT game-mode and a worse Face of the Franchise mode makes this a game I'll try to get a refund on ASAP,
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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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