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. Lauthier
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    #FixFranchiseMode #FixMaddenFranchise Seriously though. Enough is enough. I’m sick of false promises and looking forward to next years game by the end of August every year.
  2. Lahey
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Another year, another terrible madden game. Madden 21 offers no surprises. EA must be the greediest company in history. DON'T BUY THIS GAME
  3. Rilean
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Fix Madden Franchise, I can’t believe that after all of the sh** they received for doing nothing for this game mode for years, they still did nothing
  4. Sambaums
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    I have played madden for 20 years. This is by far the worst madden i have ever played. The game freezes it's frame rate on nearly every field goal to the point where i miss. Did they not test the game prior to launching it? They should have just kept everything from madden 20 and just update the rosters. They need to patch it up real quick.
  5. HooRew
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    A reskinned roster update that still has the same issues as madden 20. Greed has killed the madden franchise. Take the ultimate team out and rework the engine or something. Game is pathetic
  6. vishdaddie
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Control C + Control V = Madden 21. Absolutely no difference from Madden 20. Would love to have my $60 back @EA
  7. Nickscic8191
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    this is officially the worst madden I have ever played. Dollar Cover 1 robber press - curl flat your SS and curl flat your blitzing LB. On offense run gun bunch mesh post or some sort of crossing route combination. That's the extent of what you will be doing. I buy madden every year for 20 years and I am so fed up. The gameplay is incredibly glitchy, the menu is stiil laggy and slowthis is officially the worst madden I have ever played. Dollar Cover 1 robber press - curl flat your SS and curl flat your blitzing LB. On offense run gun bunch mesh post or some sort of crossing route combination. That's the extent of what you will be doing. I buy madden every year for 20 years and I am so fed up. The gameplay is incredibly glitchy, the menu is stiil laggy and slow (although better), servers are awful, laggy games which causes your players to miss inputs. I can go on and on.... if you're on the fence about buying it please don't save your money. I'm requesting a refund.… Expand
  8. Lifelover4ever
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This game is glitchy, almost unplayable and most importantly just not fun. The animations are wonky and making some plays hard to read. It's truly baffles me people actually pay full price (or more!) for this trash. I'm so glad I played this as a demo with a friend and didn't have to feel the deep regret of being swindled by purchasing this dumpster fire.
  9. Seizureboi2
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    #fixmaddenfranchise they don’t know the consumer they are making the game for. Who cares about face of the the franchise. Actually put time into franchise mode. That’s all that’s matters. Your game is the same as the last 5. Either change it or you’ll lose sales
  10. 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
  11. Matthewsilver
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    EA doesn’t care about its customers. They produce the same garbage every year. If you want change don’t buy this game.
  12. Alexnder
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Awful everything same game, same bugs and server issues, can't even get into a match of superstar k.o. Total piece of **** game and whoever made this is scumbags
  13. tadghostal1
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    EA Sports continues a streak of god-awful Madden releases with their LAZIEST EFFORT YET. Absolutely embarrassing EA should be ashamed of themselves. Literally every menu is exactly the same with a new color pallet!!!! Franchise is EXACTLY THE SAME!!!!!! SHAME ON YOU EA
  14. jjd2000
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    The one year I don't buy a physical copy of Madden is the one year I want to actually return this pile of ****
  15. Darule
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    No passion from EA. Looks like last year Madden but worst. Don't waste your money unless you have EA Access. NFL 2K5/Madden 2005 has more content than this. #FixFranchiseMode
  16. Debris44
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Madden gets a 0 from me until they #FixMaddenFranchise. Tired of this copy and paste crap. Give up those precious exclusive simulation rights or actually hire competent developers who want to actually innovate instead of bleed stupid sheep dry for pathetic and trash microtransaction based modes.
  17. nationwide1504
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    What the actual **** EA.________________________________________________________________
  18. Drakilliam
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Worst football game ever! Nothing has changed except they added a boring mode called the yard, this mode is the most laziest and thrown together mode I have ever seen in a game.
  19. Mpinter9
    Aug 28, 2020
    9
    As a pro Madden player, yes go look me up my name is D3liveranc3, we are often the most critical of Madden. I will say that this year is probably the best this game has been at launch in awhile. Sure there may be some visual bugs or small details to iron out, but the actual gameplay feels great this year and that is what people should be focusing on. New intelligent features like zoneAs a pro Madden player, yes go look me up my name is D3liveranc3, we are often the most critical of Madden. I will say that this year is probably the best this game has been at launch in awhile. Sure there may be some visual bugs or small details to iron out, but the actual gameplay feels great this year and that is what people should be focusing on. New intelligent features like zone drops to help show your ability to out think your opponent is an amazing addition to the game. Superstar abilities have been tuned to provide more realism and more skill gap into the game. Madden 21 has the potential to be one of the best in franchise history. Definitely give the game a try before you write it off, the rating score on metacritic does this game no justice.… Expand
  20. tribetime26
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    #FixMaddenFranchise it has fewer features than it did 15 years ago and has been lapped over many times by both MLB The Show and NBA 2k's franchise modes. If you want to pay $60 to play in the new Raiders stadium, be my guest.
  21. shane24and3
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    this is the WORST madden in history, Madden 06 on Xbox 360 is elite compared to this disgrace of a game.
  22. gngn
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Such a flawed game. They didn't change franchise mode AT ALL, and the gameplay is mostly the same. Very glitchy seems more like an indie game than a big developer, disappointed again. DONT BUY!!
  23. zslayerdre
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    How does a game that gets released yearly have the same bugs as a decade ago? All they care about is the lootbox $$ nothing else. Since they have a monopoly for NFL games the only thing we can do is vote with our wallet and not buy the game.
  24. drylolsauce
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 2020 was a rough year, with covid and everything else. I was truly hoping for Madden to be the ice in the bucket and deliver. I had faith that they would improve the most-played game mode, franchise. What a huge let-down.… Expand
  25. 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
  26. FaZeMemeDaddy
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Just buy madden 20 and write a 1 in sharpie over top, this isn’t a new game
  27. JGatsby1925
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Very little improvement yet again. Same old bugs warping animations. Sometimes your players block sometimes they don't it's a coin toss. Franchise mode is neglected yet again no fog of war. Coaching carousel and assistant coaches not in the game even though it's been heavily requested by the fans. Mouthpieces are finally in the game just in a new mode the yard but not in franchise.Very little improvement yet again. Same old bugs warping animations. Sometimes your players block sometimes they don't it's a coin toss. Franchise mode is neglected yet again no fog of war. Coaching carousel and assistant coaches not in the game even though it's been heavily requested by the fans. Mouthpieces are finally in the game just in a new mode the yard but not in franchise. Franchise sim is still broken it's all about the play books. Trading in franchise still has 3 slots when it should have like . Overall just stay with Madden 20 or whatever Madden you have and wait for the supper bowl or whenever the next Madden comes on sale and buy Madden 21 dirt cheap. Thanks NFL for giving then the exclusive rights on simulation football maybe in 2025 other companies can make simulation football games as well.… Expand
  28. subdistinction
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Copy and paste of Madden 20, which is a copy and paste of 19, etc etc etc. It's so bad they didn't even bother to update some of the players ages. They hadn't even fully removed the Washington Redskins stuff. And i really really really hate the new D linemen move mechanics with the right stick. Face of the Franchise bored me after about 15 minutes because I didn't do anything I was justCopy and paste of Madden 20, which is a copy and paste of 19, etc etc etc. It's so bad they didn't even bother to update some of the players ages. They hadn't even fully removed the Washington Redskins stuff. And i really really really hate the new D linemen move mechanics with the right stick. Face of the Franchise bored me after about 15 minutes because I didn't do anything I was just watching cutscenes. The Yard is not against other players it is against the CPU. And Ultimate Team is Ultimate Team, literally gambling.… Expand
  29. Tbrew87
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It’s the same game as always, and no changes to Franchise mode. EA is skipping another year I guess, and not giving us content, just a roster update
  30. BillButtLickerr
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Terrible game by an even worse company. EA doesn’t even try anymore. MUT is just a cash grab, FoF is laughably bad. The Yard is a lame attempt to combat 2K’s upcoming game and don’t even get me started on franchise mode. How the hell does Madden 08 have a more in-depth franchise than Madden 21? Ridiculous. EA you should be ashamed.
  31. Colvinb14
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Same game as Madden 20, Ill just download the roster and return this remake.
  32. magawolaz
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This franchise is getting worse every year. EA should be ashamed of themselves.
  33. XxSuperSaiyan
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game can be called madden 20.5 because it doesn’t feel like football and has too many in your face micro transactions.… Expand
  34. willythekid3030
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Pathetic excuse for a game, it’s a carbon copy with more micro transactions
  35. Pedro_Castro12
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Mundo:A
    Ea GaMeS: bota 300 conta aqui
    Esse Game Vai contribuir para Fim do Mundo
    de 0 a 10 esse game é -1
  36. Msheldreth327
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Same game as the last 4 years... $60 for a roster update. #fixmaddenfranchise
  37. LunarExpoze22
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't really review games but this is just Madden 21 with an updated roster and a gimmicky mode, it's bad.… Expand
  38. 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.
  39. Vick7reed
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Better off just buying Madden 20 at this point. Its basically the same exact game with a few tweaks. Literally could not tell the difference between 20 and 21 in gameplay.
  40. 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
  41. Brevo
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    For years now madden has been
  42. Bigmactunastack
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    EA continues to create a game that is solely a roster update every year. The animations make it impossible to control your movement at times. The X factor player abilities have been recycled with the exception of players like Lamar Jackson. Franchise mode remains untouched as usual. Moreover the player rating remain unrealistic. They have consistent errors on player descriptions. One beingEA continues to create a game that is solely a roster update every year. The animations make it impossible to control your movement at times. The X factor player abilities have been recycled with the exception of players like Lamar Jackson. Franchise mode remains untouched as usual. Moreover the player rating remain unrealistic. They have consistent errors on player descriptions. One being Myles Garret being 23, hes 24. I understand the game will make adjustments but how to other game companies create these giant beautiful worlds in video games and madden can’t even get a a players age correct… Expand
  43. Jr12
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Spoiler: The game sucks, and you aren’t missing out on anything so don’t bother buying the game… Expand
  44. Zeglobal
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 has shown literally 0 improvement for what fans want, especially franchise mode players. Ea has taken away features and made everything g worse to try to make more money with in game purchases in mut. Draft champions used to be amazing and now it can only be played in mut and is terrible. Franchise got absolutely no changes. Gameplay is still super animation and random numberMadden 21 has shown literally 0 improvement for what fans want, especially franchise mode players. Ea has taken away features and made everything g worse to try to make more money with in game purchases in mut. Draft champions used to be amazing and now it can only be played in mut and is terrible. Franchise got absolutely no changes. Gameplay is still super animation and random number generator based… Expand
  45. MasterPA
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    The game only offers enjoyment through the reckless purchase of in game player packs and micro transactions.
  46. CauzeMythical
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    wow just wow this game is so bad and they add nothing new same animations same faces jesus christ
  47. dhilipmaco00
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Same engine
    Same pay to win mechanism
    Same AI
    Same faces Same UI
    Same price
  48. maddenreview
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It keeps getting worse and is a poor excuse for simulation football. Glitchy, animation-reliant, rubbish.
  49. Jeruo5
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    I mean this should be a shock. Most glitchy, under tended to Madden in years.... EA has no respect for its customers. And that's why we nerd to boycott them.. #FixMaddenFranchise
  50. Destruct_
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Trash same game every year **** ea they just want money. If a person gives this game a ten they're stupid
  51. art_vadelay88
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Absolutely zero effort was put into this game. The new addition to franchise mode is a blue color scheme on the menus. If you currently own Madden 20 you could download someone’s updated roster file, put on a pair of blue lenses, and pretend you’re playing Madden 21. Do not buy this game if you care about the future of video game football. EA has made it crystal clear that they do not careAbsolutely zero effort was put into this game. The new addition to franchise mode is a blue color scheme on the menus. If you currently own Madden 20 you could download someone’s updated roster file, put on a pair of blue lenses, and pretend you’re playing Madden 21. Do not buy this game if you care about the future of video game football. EA has made it crystal clear that they do not care about franchise mode players. They’re putting all their chips in on the fact that you will buy this game on principal and spend even more money in their virtual gambling den that is MUT. Don’t be fooled and save your money.… Expand
  52. 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
  53. DrewP2002
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Glad I only rented this one. It's the same exact game as last year but more glitchy (didn't know that was even possible). Franchise mode has not changed for years and is still missing features we had on PS2! I really don't understand what EA is doing with this franchise or why the NFL let's them get away with it year after year. Something needs to change.
  54. Jpdr1612
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This game is disappointing. I have ran into many in game glitches with the environment and mechanics. The UI included multiple mispellings and some of the properties were just copied and photo shopped from previous years. Face of the franchise feels boring. I like the premise of my yard but it feels like it needs more time in development. EA did commit to working on franchuse mode butThis game is disappointing. I have ran into many in game glitches with the environment and mechanics. The UI included multiple mispellings and some of the properties were just copied and photo shopped from previous years. Face of the franchise feels boring. I like the premise of my yard but it feels like it needs more time in development. EA did commit to working on franchuse mode but that doesn't help the current state of the game. I also don't have any reason to believe franchise mode will be fixed until they show changes.… Expand
  55. zombeefs
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Copy-pasted from Madden 20, which was copy-pasted from Madden 19, which was copy-pasted from Madden 18, and so on for this joke of a "simulation" football game in this generation. Franchise mode, the core mode behind the NFL exclusive license, essentially unchanged for 5 years. Now nothing more than a mobile microtransaction game in a $60 wrapper. If you're not a 12 year old spendingCopy-pasted from Madden 20, which was copy-pasted from Madden 19, which was copy-pasted from Madden 18, and so on for this joke of a "simulation" football game in this generation. Franchise mode, the core mode behind the NFL exclusive license, essentially unchanged for 5 years. Now nothing more than a mobile microtransaction game in a $60 wrapper. If you're not a 12 year old spending mommy and daddy's money on card packs and vanity socks, there's nothing for you here.… Expand
  56. AlexTheAwesome
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is officially the lowest user rating on metacritic for any game. Hopefully this is a wake up call for EA.
  57. 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.
  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. Jord45
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Absolutely trash. EA needs to give up their license with the NFL because they clearly don’t know how to make a quality NFL game anymore
  60. 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.
  61. itwaslagiswear
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Worst madden to date. Loaded with bugs and crap gameplay. Bugs that existed in the last madden made it into this one because apparently the developers just ctrl+C and ctrl+V from one year to the next. Franchise is 100% the same as it was last year and new game modes with microtransactions are their focus... dont get me started on MUT... Save your money and dont support EA. #fixmaddenfranchise
  62. Carter_JI
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    The gameplay, the menus, the announcing, it’s all the same but yet somehow worse. The UI is slower than I’ve ever interacted with, players missing assignments on the field, blocking is atrocious. Avoid this game at any cost you can, if it’s in the bargain bin for $5 I say it’s fine, other than that save your hard earned money.
  63. JesseMarlin
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Still no refs in field, no fixes or updates for franchise mode, they continue to push mut, and arcade modes like the yard and KO modes for kids. So so many glitches and bugs every year they haven’t fixed for years ea is the laziest game company ever!
  64. Adam1301
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    just update the roster on madden 21.

    Face of franchise didn't feel completed - as if cut scenes were missing.

    Franchise is madden 20..
    Literally
  65. RagnarokTTV
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    No improvement, poorly designed, poor franchise mode. Remove the exclusivity deal
  66. EAisScum
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    They continue to add meaningless game modes that have micro transactions rather than make gameplay or franchise mode better. They have no competition since they get to be the only company that owns NFL rights, and they are abusing that to the fullest. They are abusing and neglecting their fan base, and it needs to stop. This copy & paste video game gets more buggy every season. TheyThey continue to add meaningless game modes that have micro transactions rather than make gameplay or franchise mode better. They have no competition since they get to be the only company that owns NFL rights, and they are abusing that to the fullest. They are abusing and neglecting their fan base, and it needs to stop. This copy & paste video game gets more buggy every season. They literally did not touch franchise mode. No seriously, they even still have the same exact animation of your dumb coach pacing around in his office on the main screen. It’s disgusting that a video game made 15 years ago (NFL 2K5) is 10x more creative than this one. They either neglect franchise mode because it doesn’t have micro transactions which give EA extra money, or they’re just so dumb that they don’t realize 90% of madden players only want to play franchise mode. This company is a joke.… Expand
  67. Acosta410
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    As a franchise mode player, I am highly disappointed with Madden 21. It’s literally the same franchise as Madden 20 but with updated rosters. This game continues to get worse every year. EA is getting ridiculous
  68. Mbaran28
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    I am going to keep this review plain and simple, this game is terrible. The gameplay, franchise mode, and MUT are exactly the same as last year. This is just EA ripping off customers by making no changes to their garbage game again. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME! THE ONLY WAY THEY WILL MAKE CHANGES IS IF IT HURTS THE COMPANY FINANCIALLY!
  69. SeeSquaredd
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It somehow got more glitchy and buggy than the previous madden. EA focuses way too much time on dances and designing jerseys that could kill an epileptic. Face of the franchise is the cringiest story mode in a game i have ever played. They completely ignored franchise mode again, literally nothing changed in it besides it has a dark colored theme this year. Not to mention the promotion ofIt somehow got more glitchy and buggy than the previous madden. EA focuses way too much time on dances and designing jerseys that could kill an epileptic. Face of the franchise is the cringiest story mode in a game i have ever played. They completely ignored franchise mode again, literally nothing changed in it besides it has a dark colored theme this year. Not to mention the promotion of underage gambling.… Expand
  70. twest912
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    This is the absolute worst Madden game, ever. The clowns at EA Sports did not listen to a single thing that the Franchise community wanted, but instead focused on a non-sense pathetic "story mode" and idiotic arcade football mode.

    **DO NOT BUY THIS GAME** Instead, you should purchase Maximum Football in a few weeks since that company actually listens to their customers. EA, this    This is the absolute worst Madden game, ever. The clowns at EA Sports did not listen to a single thing that the Franchise community wanted, but instead focused on a non-sense pathetic "story mode" and idiotic arcade football mode.

    **DO NOT BUY THIS GAME**

    Instead, you should purchase Maximum Football in a few weeks since that company actually listens to their customers.

    EA, this is a complete spit in the face to your customers and I hope you people feel some financial pain because of this humiliating effort. **SHAME ON YOU**    … Expand
  71. Gkstar1
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Noo update to fanchise whatsoever gameplay is basically msdden 20. Way to many bugs and glitches. Face of the franchise story is horrible snd cory. Thida game is basically madden 20 with a roster update.. once again ea disappoints with another ea sports game. But whats new
  72. Ricanlegend
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Same garbage from last year the only difference they expect you to buy it again, do not buy this garbage. if you really need to play it just sign up for 1 month of ea access and you will be glad you didn't spend $60
  73. BrikHarville
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    One of the worst maddens ever, buggy mess, franchise mode stays stagnant while micro-transactions run wild..
  74. JediBeowulf
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Same thing every year. If it was a solid game no one would complain, but it’s not even close.
  75. Robluca21
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Another year and another bad madden game from EA. They refuse to fix all the bugs, or determined animations and franchise mode had become a total joke. The whole reason I used to play madden was for franchise mode.


    I'm glad I played this at my friends house . Because I m done buying madden games until franchise is fixed
  76. sullyliam
    Aug 28, 2020
    1
    As a standalone game if there had been no predecessors it would be a good game. But the fact it is a yearly release and this is what EA deem acceptable in 2020 is inexcusable. The recycled everything along what lack of fixes from the previous year is a joke. How any person can stand by this product and with a straight face say they are proud of this game is beyond me.
  77. Lildino713
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Same as Madden 19. Don't buy this if you have Last years Madden or the year before's.… Expand
  78. 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.
  79. Terry1995
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It’s literally Madden 20 they just added The Yard. Franchise is terrible like usual. Scripted animations at an all time high. It’s just a bad video game
  80. Slimstretcher17
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    Visuals are really the only decent thing about this game and even then they aren't anything to gawk over. EA wasted a console generation worrying more about milking MUT and thinking gameplay improvements weren't selling points. Until they ditch animation dictated gameplay, make franchise which is their actual most popular mode a core part of each installment this series will be nothingVisuals are really the only decent thing about this game and even then they aren't anything to gawk over. EA wasted a console generation worrying more about milking MUT and thinking gameplay improvements weren't selling points. Until they ditch animation dictated gameplay, make franchise which is their actual most popular mode a core part of each installment this series will be nothing more than a big patch update year to year. Their newest flagship mode "The Yard" is interesting tho has no place in a game that's marketed as simulation. But its a new mode and its monetized so EA will probably make its development a priority in the years to come. This game just isn't even enjoyable. Theres no definitive GOOD thing this game has going for it. It just kinda exist. #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  81. brianh524
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This game is horrible. So many glitches and it’s basically the same game. I can’t believe I just paid $60 for this junk. Please boycott Madden and do not buy EA games until they improve their games. Horrible! Shame on you EA for releasing this trash.
  82. Smilleyy
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    THE MOST DISGUSTINGLY EMBARRASSING COMPANY EVER!!!! TO GET AWAY WITH THIS LAZINESS AND LEVEL OF DISRESPECT FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS WHILE DOING WHATEVER THEY CAN TO KEEP THE NFL LICENSE IS CRIMINAL LOL!!! IVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS AND EA AND MADDEN21 SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES. TO NOT EVEN AT LEAST COPY OR STEAL IDEAS OFF OF NFL2K5 AFTER ALL OF THIS TIME IS EMBARRASSING. MORETHE MOST DISGUSTINGLY EMBARRASSING COMPANY EVER!!!! TO GET AWAY WITH THIS LAZINESS AND LEVEL OF DISRESPECT FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS WHILE DOING WHATEVER THEY CAN TO KEEP THE NFL LICENSE IS CRIMINAL LOL!!! IVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS AND EA AND MADDEN21 SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES. TO NOT EVEN AT LEAST COPY OR STEAL IDEAS OFF OF NFL2K5 AFTER ALL OF THIS TIME IS EMBARRASSING. MORE THAN A DECADE !!… Expand
  83. Realfootball87
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Absolutely positively disgusting as a brand, company etc. a complete repeat of last year sad… Expand
  84. Nitt23
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Might as well buy madden 16 it’s a better game. This is a copy and paste. Just update your roster on madden 20 and you have madden 21. DONT BUY THIS GAME!!! WE NEED CHANGE!!
  85. TheTruth_
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Madden 21: The Truth
    Madden 21 is a poor, lazy, and downright awful excuse of a “simulation football game” made in 2020. Gameplay: A copy and paste of the already mediocre Madden 20 gameplay. Unrealistic blocking. Still too many QB fumbles. Bad CBs making one handed spectacular INTs with ease in jump balls against star WRs. Clipping is a bigger issue than it has been in past Madden games. The FIRST pass play of my game, the nose tackle’s head goes through my lineman’s head. Frame Rate drops during field goals and kickoffs, messing up crucial moments when I’m attempting game winning field goals. It is worse than past Maddens. For a game made in 2020, there is no excuse to have gameplay this bad. 1/10

    Presentation: Awful. Downright embarrassing for a “simulation football game” made in 2020. NFL 2K5 has better presentation than a game made 15 years later. Commentary is exactly the same as last Madden, and the Madden before that, and the Madden before that. Lazy and boring. Pre game is downright laughable. Players jumping up and down before running out of bland, copy and paste tunnels, just like Madden 20. Halftime show is non-existent. Post game is copy and paste. Lazy. Lazy. Lazy. The severe lack of presentation ruins an already awful game. 1/10

    Game Modes:

    Franchise: Hahahahahahaha. It’s Madden 20! No but seriously, franchise mode is once again neglected, features that should be there (that have been on past Maddens) are not there. Copy and paste. Lazy. Lazy. Lazy. Madden 20, excuse me, I meant Madden 21, is lightyears behind other sports simulation games like NBA 2K and MLB: The Show when it comes to its Franchise mode. Downright pathetic EA. 0/10

    The Career Mode: Pathetic. Lazy. It feels like there’s a theme with this. The worst story of any sports career mode I have EVER played. Terrible writing and voice acting. Cheap cutscenes with PS3/360 like graphics. Unrealistic high school setting. The guys on the high school field look exactly like guys on an NFL field with beards and similar builds. The characters are one dimensional, there’s no connection, no feeling throughout the story. The linear story mode is a joke. You can make ZERO completions, running the ball back into the end zone for a safety on EVERY play, and you still get offers from D1 schools like you are a star. Lazy. Lazy. Lazy. College is boring, there’s no college atmosphere, nothing that makes it different from an NFL atmosphere. Once you get to the NFL, the career paths that Madden gives you are uncomfortable and just downright disappointing. Everything about this career mode is just sad for a game made in 2020. 2/10.

    The Yard: The new, fresh game mode that EA hyped up going into this year’s mode. While admittedly fun for a little bit, after playing for a while, you start to notice the lack of depth in the mode. The bad gameplay of Madden in general sadly affects the Yard. EA once again ruins another game mode with microtransactions. While better than Franchise and the Career mode, it’s still bland, lacking the depth of a game mode like NBA 2K’s MyPark. 4/10

    Conclusion: Something’s got to give people. For a game made in 2020, it lacks almost everything that makes a solid sports game, a solid video game even. It’s lazy, boring, at times downright laughable and shameful, and just... bad. People, please. Don’t waste another $60 on this poor excuse of a “simulation football game”. You are better off playing Madden 20, which is exactly like Madden 21, or NFL 2K5, which is game made in 2004 that has better quality presentation and gameplay than Madden 21. Do not buy this game. It’s not worth your time.    … Expand
  86. sald
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have purchased every Madden since the year 2000. The franchise has declined year after year to the point where the game is just awful now, which is sad because all other game genres and other sport games have gotten better in that time. EA's decision was to purchase exclusive rights so they can get away with releasing mediocre games year after year. Instead of putting out an extremely good product, they decided to invest into a new arcade mode for the simulation football game- and have that be the only real update. So what you are left with is an extremely buggy, not well crafted and mediocre title with 4 or 5 mode options that are all awful. This game does nothing well and needs major patches to even function properly. It is an exact copy and paste of last years game with an added arcade mode. EA and the Madden franchise appears to have given up.

    Specifics:
    Franchise mode is bad, no depth, no ambition and needs completely thrown out and remade. The madden franchise was built on the pack of this mode and they have neglected it for a decade and we're just not playing anymore. I even enjoy messing around on MUT, but franchise is needs to be the most exciting feature to bring fans back. This mode is severely lacking in creativity and has no heart. On top of all the other issues, player progression is awful. Literally franchise mode was better 15 years ago on PS2 and GameCube.

    Yard is very surface level and has no depth with meaningless micro transactions. It's just a 3v3 football arcade game- you might as well not have a created player on it or attributes. Mode freezes a lot and countless other glitches will occur MUT is about 99% unchanged with same card art and format, same menu art and same bugs
    . Game will freeze when loading in. Also, same loading screens.

    The gameplay no longer resembles simulation football about half of the time. You will have a receiver not react to catch a ball at all, blockers just walk around during big plays. O-Line aimlessly twirling around. Players warping around and through each other. Mouth guards are somehow missing from the game, but they are in the new yard mode? You also can't create players really with custom faces other than yard mode. No creating a tem, or stadiums. You're forced to reuse the same basic handcuffed assets as the last 8 Maddens. This is the first year ever I'm not buying. The folks at Madden clearly have no idea or don't care to put out a worthy football game. This game is only better than football games from 15 years ago from graphics alone. (I played the 10 hour trial)    … Expand
  87. Emperor_Maximus
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Welcome to Madden 20.5 and they almost got the roster update right. Same recycled features that they removed and put back in from older Madden games that nobody cared about while ignoring every single request from fans. Franchise mode got a updated UI screen....and that's it. Don't buy this game if you own Madden 20.
  88. YUNGSPOON
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 in it's current state is a terrible game. The features and lack of details are literally embarrassing. From franchise, to face of the franchise, to gameplay - it's just bad.
  89. Milb78
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    EA Sports need to be revoked of the NFL license. Every year, the gameplay and franchise mode is the same. Shame on you EA and the NFL for allowing this to happen
  90. RockossmosD
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    This game is a heavily undercooked, disrespectful representation of simulation football. After playing this title I cant believe they had the audacity to charge a full premium price for this buggy and unrefined game. This is not even touching on the fact that absolutely nothing of not ON release was given yo Franchise mode the one simulation mode this game is supposed to
  91. LaCorte5
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Just another sad attempt to “ simulation football” just no. I don’t even know what’s going on anymore. What is football when it comes to this years madden... I just want ea to give up on making this game
  92. 49ers
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    I’ve bought every madden since 07’. Every year since 2012 the game has been a reshell if itself with slightly better graphics and an engine. I’ve ignored all those things to enjoy my love for football and video games. However, this year EA has taken it too far. This game is an insult to its consumers. There are pictures of players not even on their respective teams anymore across theI’ve bought every madden since 07’. Every year since 2012 the game has been a reshell if itself with slightly better graphics and an engine. I’ve ignored all those things to enjoy my love for football and video games. However, this year EA has taken it too far. This game is an insult to its consumers. There are pictures of players not even on their respective teams anymore across the loading screens. The gameplay is the same exact thing as last year. This is a huge company with endless resources to make a phenomenal game, and they are showing how lazy and how much they don’t care about their customers. We keep buying their lifeless, lazy, and reskinned game. But it needs to stop. Their time will come when 2k gets Iinvolved again. Unless they change dramatically for next gen.… Expand
  93. tbahama
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Heard how bad this years game was and had to try it. After about 10 hours of gameplay I returned it. Franchise mode is a complete joke. Story mode doesn’t make sense, MUT should be boarder line illegal for underage gambling, but worst of all, the gameplay is complete trash. This should not even be considered a football simulation when you have a ball travel on a players helmet for 40Heard how bad this years game was and had to try it. After about 10 hours of gameplay I returned it. Franchise mode is a complete joke. Story mode doesn’t make sense, MUT should be boarder line illegal for underage gambling, but worst of all, the gameplay is complete trash. This should not even be considered a football simulation when you have a ball travel on a players helmet for 40 yards. It’s sad knowing there’s five more years without an NFL licensed sim.… Expand
  94. TheElite216
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Fix Franchise mode its sad when I would rather play Madden 2005 because the game has more depth prove me wrong on Next Gen launch
  95. Darrell8322
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Thank God I read these reviews before I jumped off the deep end and wasted 60 hard earned dollars on this apparent heap of ****

    Laughable seeing the few people sprinkled in rating this game a 10.. Obviously you work for EA its beyond obvious.
  96. JakeK107
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    WHERE are the improvements?! Worst Madden yet!!!

    Literally no idea what EA did ALL year from Madden 20 to now - I do not see ANY improvements - Thankfully I only paid for the EA Access version - I WILL NOT buy this game for anything more than $10, as it is not worth anymore than that. The fact that they haven't updated or improved Franchise mode in over 5 years says A LOT about this    WHERE are the improvements?! Worst Madden yet!!!

    Literally no idea what EA did ALL year from Madden 20 to now - I do not see ANY improvements - Thankfully I only paid for the EA Access version - I WILL NOT buy this game for anything more than $10, as it is not worth anymore than that. The fact that they haven't updated or improved Franchise mode in over 5 years says A LOT about this game and the state Madden is in. The developers are lazy and do not care! Let's hope all these negative reviews make them actually do some work to improve this game. I won't be holding my breath though.    … Expand
  97. Nr19
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    EA seems to have completely not tried with the game. Copy and paste from 20, which was copy paste from 19, which was c/p from 18........ so on.
  98. ALLNIKEWEAR18
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Improve franchise mode. add more depth like madden 08 from the PS2. Those microtransactions need to stop or at least not be a driving force in creating new modes. Improve franchise mode
  99. bigtuckk
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    The gameplay is next to parallel with the old game, nothing has changed at all except a pass rush move. The franchise mode didn't change at all despite begging from fans, yet they did nothing. All they did was change up face of the franchise, and add the yard, which seems like a copy of the park idea in the 2k series, just changed to fit a football game. just bad.
  100. Alextzak77
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Horrible game, absolutely 0 new improvements from the past year. Waste of money
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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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