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. SaitamaOnePunch
    Nov 13, 2020
    10
    In November 2020 this is the best playing madden ever. It’s super smooth and fluid, animations are tight and it just feels good. Most fun I’ve had in madden in years, and they’re addressing franchise mode. I don’t play MuT..... but the gameplay is top notch.
  2. Biggs1123
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    New gameplay feels more life like. Yard is a lot of fun. New cosmetics look awesome. Having a lot of fun.
  3. IIISabot
    Sep 8, 2020
    10
    I'm giving this game the rating it deserves at a big fat 10. It has achieved something that is frankly not very easy. EA has yet again managed to dupe billions of dollars from you people into buying a game despite their "stellar" reputation with copy paste sports games. And year after year I get to see all of you complain about how it's **** Yet year after year you buy it again? Why wouldI'm giving this game the rating it deserves at a big fat 10. It has achieved something that is frankly not very easy. EA has yet again managed to dupe billions of dollars from you people into buying a game despite their "stellar" reputation with copy paste sports games. And year after year I get to see all of you complain about how it's **** Yet year after year you buy it again? Why would they change anything? They don't have to, you all will buy it anyway lol. If I could copy paste a game year in and year out and get millions of people to buy it, your damn right that's exactly what I would do. So I'm not disappointed I'm incredibly impressed at EA. The kings of video game capitalism! I'll see you all next year for madden 22 when we go over this again.… Expand
  4. Sega_goat_shaq1
    Aug 27, 2020
    10
    This very well could be the best madden this Generation. It’s very fun and fluent this year
  5. AdRobs
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    People love to hate on Madden. It is what the cool kids do. Thus, 885 people have chosen to leave a negative review while those of us who enjoy the game just kind of play and chill out a little bit. The game is fine. MUT has simplified the UI and the solos in order to make the completion of them feel possible. In the past, they had a situation where there were hundreds of solos and youPeople love to hate on Madden. It is what the cool kids do. Thus, 885 people have chosen to leave a negative review while those of us who enjoy the game just kind of play and chill out a little bit. The game is fine. MUT has simplified the UI and the solos in order to make the completion of them feel possible. In the past, they had a situation where there were hundreds of solos and you felt buried in them. The Yard is a forward-thinking and fun arcade mode built by the same team that built Superstar KO. You could argue that The Yard makes this worth purchasing by itself. I have not played the story mode or franchise mode. Other people reviewed those though. In general, man defense and zone defense feel fine to me. I will say that it is hard to review the game on August 30 because you need to run through a cycle of people with websites finding the holes in the coding and exploiting them. Ultimately, an iteration of Madden is judged by how well a dev team does this. Considering that this game was developed with almost everyone working from home (Tiburon is in Orlando, FL), it is hard to say they didn't do a good job.… Expand
  6. Thomsnell13
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is very fun and the new yard is great... problem are just trolling at this point,
    also I’m in no way associated with EA    … Expand
  7. SlushJL
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    I love this game but it has some flaws they can fix,like the glitches,please fix the big ones,no need to fix the smaller ones at all! I love EA!
  8. JackR
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    I have no idea what everyone is talking about. The game is great. Unless you didn't like Franchise last year, it's perfect. Superstar KO had many bugs and lag fixed. The Yard is so much fun, you could play hours with your friends. Face of the Franchise added more storyline so it got better. MUT got updated a bit. Gameplay is better with deadleg and jurdle. Plus more realotci animations.I have no idea what everyone is talking about. The game is great. Unless you didn't like Franchise last year, it's perfect. Superstar KO had many bugs and lag fixed. The Yard is so much fun, you could play hours with your friends. Face of the Franchise added more storyline so it got better. MUT got updated a bit. Gameplay is better with deadleg and jurdle. Plus more realotci animations. Ppl just complain just because they have a fixed mindset of EA being bad. 10/10… Expand
  9. Superman71099
    Aug 31, 2020
    10
    Once they released the update it fixed any issue I had. Love it. I haven't experienced any of the glitches you see online. Makes me wonder if they're real.
  10. urmum69420
    Aug 31, 2020
    10
    game really isn’t that bad it’s not as bad as everyone says i don’t know why everyone says it’s so bad because it’s fine.
  11. Ben19198
    Sep 1, 2020
    10
    They added a bunch of new game modes to the game and now you can create your own character I think it is the best madden they have ever made
  12. jbpalmr
    Sep 2, 2020
    10
    Honestly, people just hate on EA to be difficult, but 2k wouldn't do any better. I deleted Madden 20 from my console because it truly sucked. Madden 21, on the other hand, has greatly improved physics, ai, and animations and a super clean UI. Graphics look fluid and realistic. It can be buggy at times but I have confidence in EA to patch it.
  13. yurks
    Sep 3, 2020
    10
    Ich hatte schon viel Spaß an Madden 20 und finde das man schon Veränderungen sieht.
  14. Kaaskaaskaas
    Sep 4, 2020
    10
    Great characters and story. I felt really connected with the main character troughout the story. The combat is great too. It does need more microtransactions, i want to lose even more money. Right now i have lost my house, my car, my family and my dog because i had to sell/ they left because i spend all my money on madden. Great fun!
  15. Bebe_34
    Sep 8, 2020
    10
    Good game worth buying and trying don't let the reviews run you away tried it yourself
  16. NotTheoMiller
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    This is by far one of the most fantastic and innovative sports games I have ever played. New and improved graphics to go along with a vastly updated gameplay engine catapults this game to the stars and beyond. If you’re a fan of franchise mode BUY THIS GAME!! Absolutely no bugs or glitches of any kind as well as a very well rounded soundtrack. The ultimate team mode is new and improved andThis is by far one of the most fantastic and innovative sports games I have ever played. New and improved graphics to go along with a vastly updated gameplay engine catapults this game to the stars and beyond. If you’re a fan of franchise mode BUY THIS GAME!! Absolutely no bugs or glitches of any kind as well as a very well rounded soundtrack. The ultimate team mode is new and improved and rewards players for putting time into the game instead of money. EA sports truly listened to their community and delivered on a fantastic product.… Expand
  17. Paulo300
    Oct 12, 2020
    10
    Jogaço!!! O melhor jogo dos últimos anos!!!! Só não supera o FIFA é claro!!!!
  18. ri123456789
    Oct 26, 2020
    10
    I love this game, it is fun both franchises are fun I don't know about the other ones though.
  19. Wixard564
    Oct 26, 2020
    10
    Only reason 10/10 is so I'm the 69th positive review fjfjkekdigjrjrkfirirjrj
  20. aymanhlayba
    Jun 19, 2022
    10
    One of the best madden games imo, really fun especially the story mode. A must play. Diabolically immortal lol
  21. desmondd
    Jan 1, 2022
    10
    An absolute classic. Don’t listen to sdtv he’s legitimate so trash it makes a landfill look like god.
  22. E-D-W-I-N
    Jun 21, 2021
    10
    This is still better than Warcraft III: Reforged. Bring Warcraft 3 refunded back to the last place.
  23. BigGuyKnowsMen
    Jan 31, 2023
    10
    Football video games have come a long way and the latest addition to the genre,
    MADDEN NFL 21, is a testament to that. From the moment you start playing, you are transported to a world of incredible realism and immersive gameplay. The graphics are top-notch, making it feel like you are right on the field, battling it out with the world's best teams. The controls are intuitive and    Football video games have come a long way and the latest addition to the genre,
    MADDEN NFL 21, is a testament to that. From the moment you start playing, you are transported to a world of incredible realism and immersive gameplay. The graphics are top-notch, making it feel like you are right on the field, battling it out with the world's best teams. The controls are intuitive and responsive, making it easy for both new and experienced players to get into the game. The AI is impressive, providing challenging opponents and making each game a unique experience. The various game modes, from career mode to online multiplayer, offer endless hours of entertainment.
    One of the most impressive features of MADDEN NFL 21 is the attention to detail. From the crowd animations and stadium atmosphere to the player movements and realistic ball physics, every aspect has been finely tuned to provide the most authentic football experience possible.
    Overall, MADDEN NFL 21 is a must-have for any football fan and video game enthusiast. The combination of immersive gameplay, stunning graphics, and attention to detail make this game an absolute triumph in the football video game genre. If you're looking for a football game that will keep you entertained for hours on end, look no further than MADDEN NFL 21    … Expand
  24. 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
  25. Vailed-lion9
    Sep 17, 2020
    9
    Madden NFL 21 is not a truly bad game, in fact it rather boasts new gameplay additions such as The Yard this year, as well as New Superstar X Factor abilities. Ultimate Team has seen a few new improvements and bug fixes since the last few title updates to bring in Teams of The Week and Event Modes. House Rules and Couch Co-Op are now back from last years game and the Competitive ModesMadden NFL 21 is not a truly bad game, in fact it rather boasts new gameplay additions such as The Yard this year, as well as New Superstar X Factor abilities. Ultimate Team has seen a few new improvements and bug fixes since the last few title updates to bring in Teams of The Week and Event Modes. House Rules and Couch Co-Op are now back from last years game and the Competitive Modes perhaps have to be the biggest yet. However despite this, a few clipping glitches during matchmaking, Slight FPS drops and the subpar Franchise Modes which EA has not yet addressed needs to be something that the developers need to address in a future update. But, in general Madden NFL 21 has improved dramatically across the board in the latest title patches on PS4 Pro in my opinion whereas others may not quite be so lucky. If you are having issues though it may be best to contact help.ea.com, in regards to this. But, other than that the game runs pretty solid in my eyes so far.… Expand
  26. VeciPulse
    Dec 28, 2020
    9
    Where do I even begin with this game? I was a huge Madden 20 fan, I really like MUT, Franchise, and the Superstar KO modes. But this game is probably the best Madden out there. To start, Franchise mode. Nothing has really changed with Franchise mode, but some polishing was done to make Franchise really nice and simple. One complaint with Franchise, the "Play The Moments" feature stillWhere do I even begin with this game? I was a huge Madden 20 fan, I really like MUT, Franchise, and the Superstar KO modes. But this game is probably the best Madden out there. To start, Franchise mode. Nothing has really changed with Franchise mode, but some polishing was done to make Franchise really nice and simple. One complaint with Franchise, the "Play The Moments" feature still feels broken because it doesn't let you play really crucial parts of the game. Other than that, Franchise mode is really good. Now, MUT. MUT has always been my favorite mode in Madden, I love the collecting and unique challenges they put out. They also churn out updates for MUT including new players, packs, and challenges which is nice. MUT feels much more simple now, without the 100 challenge sections where you have to play full games. Overall, MUT has been improved and it is still my favorite game mode. I can't really say much about Face of the Franchise, because I haven't played it AT ALL. So now: Superstar KO. I remember this mode in Madden 20, and it was pretty cool. But Madden 21 really shook things up and polished this game mode a lot. The mechanics feel decked out and polished, and it really feels like its own, really fun game mode. The problem? ONLINE. This does not affect my rating (because this is talking about the community). People are REALLY toxic on these online modes, and it is really discouraging to play them. I hope EA can make a CPU version in the future. Finally, The Yard. This is the new mode introduced in Madden, and I ADORE it. It is a nice relief from the regular Madden style, and has really fun mechanics and gameplay. I like the prototypes, different locations, and the PAT mechanic inside of The Yard. This is also an online mode, but it gives you the option for CPU, which is nice. This is the best mode Madden has ever introduced, it could actually stand as DLC. Last thing, character customization. You can make and customize your own character to use in The Yard. It is really cool and has loads of options to choose from. One problem: Pricing. Before we get into that, the Madden rank is a new system that basically shows your level in general, not for a certain mode. The clothing costs credits to get, and you get credits by leveling up. But leveling up can be tedious, and doesn't give many credits. You can buy featured items in the rotating shop with Madden points as well. Overall, this is the best Madden I have ever played, and I'm excited about the future of this game!… Expand
  27. adepss1
    Sep 3, 2021
    9
    Despite the harsh critcism I actually really enjoy this game. I have all the maddens from 15-21 and I enjoyed M21 a lot. Highly recommended!
  28. IHateThemBoys
    Feb 28, 2023
    9
    Great game, lots of fun. Only downside is that its somewhat old or that it was pay to win in Ultimate Team. Btw **** them ‘boys
  29. boesterle
    Aug 31, 2020
    8
    Solid game, feels new in the game play. UI may be the same but it just feels better to play. The yard is an awesome addition. Just remember that they are probably working on the PS5 versions to be great and that's why most of the UI and game are generally the same.
  30. gamerhead2007
    Jan 6, 2021
    8
    This game in many ways is a step up over 19 many of us have given this game negative reception. It is more than a roster update
  31. MinePlay512
    Sep 3, 2020
    8
    Madden NFL 21 is good. I'm sorry if I upset you earlier. I know you are upset about Franchise Mode not being improved I understand. The Yard is a solid game mode that will bring in fun. Face of the Franchise mode is a 6/10. The mode soft-locks the game and it doesn't give the right stuff for your player, gameplay wise, it's solid. I understand your anger. I don't support EA. I don't workMadden NFL 21 is good. I'm sorry if I upset you earlier. I know you are upset about Franchise Mode not being improved I understand. The Yard is a solid game mode that will bring in fun. Face of the Franchise mode is a 6/10. The mode soft-locks the game and it doesn't give the right stuff for your player, gameplay wise, it's solid. I understand your anger. I don't support EA. I don't work for EA. But please, I just want to give you fun.… Expand
  32. Football2k17
    Aug 30, 2020
    8
    I encourage anyone basing whether or not they get the game just off of these reviews to at least try the game for themselves. The franchise community is upset (reasonably so) and they won't be happy regardless of what the game is like until they get the features they want. Props to them for fighting for what they feel like they deserve but at the same time i don't personally believe theyI encourage anyone basing whether or not they get the game just off of these reviews to at least try the game for themselves. The franchise community is upset (reasonably so) and they won't be happy regardless of what the game is like until they get the features they want. Props to them for fighting for what they feel like they deserve but at the same time i don't personally believe they are leaving reasonable and honest reviews.

    A game shouldn't get a 0 unless it literally does not function at all which 100% is not the case. There are definitely bugs and other things that could be improved but here is my honest review of the game...

    I think the addition of "The Yard" along with SuperStar KO from the previous Madden was a good addition in that it allows a fun casual gaming experience where you can just kickback and have fun. I think some of the new animations put into the game have been great so far and have been a breath of fresh air after seeing the same animations all year in Madden 20. The tuning of the user defender has definitely made defense more difficult but at the same time it opened much more passing lanes and requires the defender to think a little more on defense than in previous years. I also like the addition of the zone drop adjustments. I feel like it helps give the defender more control over the cpu defenders and once people get a hang of them, I think it will help prevent constant crossers or similar routes from constantly being open. There were a lot of small things added that I think help improve the game compared to last year like new ball carrier moves and move animations, ability to throw before getting sacked, tuning of contains, nerfed blitzing 7 players, etc.

    As for cons of the game, my absolute biggest complaint is the testers of the game. I think the game would be so much smoother, less bugs, and better overall if EA would select a few people from each sub community in Madden and have them test out the game. The people who play hours a day and create content for the game will know much better of what to look for bug wise than any game tester would. There are definitely some bugs in the game (that I don't understand how they were even created) but it was just released and as long as they are fixed promptly I'm not going to complain too much about it. I think pass rush will need tuned but I have a feeling its bad right now to help prevent last years defensive meta from being prevalent again this year. Another thing that needs to be improved is the CPU pursuit angles, often times they will take bad angles which usually takes that defender out of the play. I only speak from my personal experience and strictly game play since I don't play franchise much but I have seen their complaints and I do think EA should add more features, I think it would help make some of their fan base happier and it will make the franchise experience better for the players. In the past EA has had a bad habit of making the game worse throughout the year via their updates. If they can avoid messing up the game while fixing the visual bugs, I think this game has the potential to be one of the best Maddens in recent years. Currently I like the game gameplay wise, just needs cleaned up (which brings me back to my point about having actual Madden heads be the ones to test the game),

    I give it an 8/10 at the moment but obviously that could go down depending on future patches.    … Expand
  33. Beastaf
    Aug 30, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. They just need to fix servers and the game would be fine and nobody’s complaining simple… Expand
  34. Vayomayo
    Aug 31, 2020
    8
    I honetly think that the game is good and that it is on the right track. While people are trashing it, I'll be enjoying the yard, KO, and Franchise.
  35. ComicFanBook
    Aug 31, 2020
    8
    Love the game, really big improvements in gameplay from last year. Idc about franchise so all these neg reviews about nothing changing means nothing to me. Big improvements on how ball carriers feel, running has been balanced way better, QB throws are ramped up and throwing out of sack feels better, so there's chance to fail and chance to win those high-risk/high-reward circumstances.Love the game, really big improvements in gameplay from last year. Idc about franchise so all these neg reviews about nothing changing means nothing to me. Big improvements on how ball carriers feel, running has been balanced way better, QB throws are ramped up and throwing out of sack feels better, so there's chance to fail and chance to win those high-risk/high-reward circumstances. Suicide blitzes are punished now with better blocking logic. I flubbed a few kicks already and it forces users to be a bit more tactful and mindful of using the meter - small change, i know, but it does raise the skill ceiling. Loving the juke combos and chaining them together, also like that being showboat-y can easily be punished with getting rocked and losing a fumble. The def line mechanic is really nice. If you put pressure on opponent by allowing clouds to drop back (in gameplay menu) and user'ing the defensive line you can put pressure on QB or force your opponent to make blocking adjustments, then user back/switch players and punish by user'ing linemen or safeties, etc. Overall the animations feel better and it's a solid improvement. It just amazes me at all the neg reviews, really. 0 out of 10? Really? zero? Holy moly.. people aren't judging the game at this point, they're simply getting out frustration and anger, taking that pent up quarantine energy out anonymously over the net.… Expand
  36. Benthebowler
    Aug 31, 2020
    8
    Great game im not a ea critic who gets payed im just saying its a great game great features. Only problem is in franchise mode before a lot of plays it glitches for 2 seconds witch its never done before but great game
  37. Mnoric
    Sep 3, 2020
    8
    TL;DR: Not perfect, but the best Madden I've played in years.
    I don't understand all the hatred for this edition. Yeah, it's not perfect, but this is the first time I've actually enjoyed playing Madden in half a decade. Maybe it's because I basically just play offline Franchise and Face of the Franchise, but it feels like they finally fixed the problem with receivers dropping the ball    TL;DR: Not perfect, but the best Madden I've played in years.
    I don't understand all the hatred for this edition. Yeah, it's not perfect, but this is the first time I've actually enjoyed playing Madden in half a decade. Maybe it's because I basically just play offline Franchise and Face of the Franchise, but it feels like they finally fixed the problem with receivers dropping the ball every time someone breathes on them within 3 seconds of the catch. I also haven't had the usual problem of getting ahead in a game only to have my sure-handed HB fumble, other team runs back for TD, fumble the ensuing kickoff and they recover, random intersection on my next offensive play because apparently Aaron Rogers can't throw the ball 15 feet accurately, and now I'm suddenly down 14 four minutes after I was up by 14.
    I watched a video about all the features they have removed from Madden over the years, but honestly the only one I cared about at all was the Retired page after each off season. The rest were all things I didn't care about anyway. The biggest feature I would like to see added is a good play design feature and playbook maker. Yes, I know they have had a crappy play design feature in previous editions, but it was so terrible that I didn't even miss it.    … Expand
  38. Jwork6
    Jun 13, 2021
    8
    On the next madden when a reciever crosses a defender in deep coverage the defender needs to run with that reciever and not let them just cross in front of them leaving them open…
  39. JesseEHenthorn
    Aug 30, 2020
    7
    As a fan of MUT, the game meets my needs. Game play feels more fluid. Better GUI this year. Lots of bugs to patch in this early iteration.
  40. ATHLETICMONSTA
    Sep 16, 2020
    7
    The game is decent, but there are so many bugs and glitches because EA was procrastinating and decided to fix the bugs through updates throughout the game, which is why everyone hates it. I get it's hard to make a new game every year, but it could've been better than this. Players warp sometimes, most commonly on the offensive line, and blocking logic is terrible in this game. There'sThe game is decent, but there are so many bugs and glitches because EA was procrastinating and decided to fix the bugs through updates throughout the game, which is why everyone hates it. I get it's hard to make a new game every year, but it could've been better than this. Players warp sometimes, most commonly on the offensive line, and blocking logic is terrible in this game. There's also this fumble bug, where the players are grunting and the ball keeps rolling on the ground and no one can pick it up. Also, we should have more of a fair chance to chance to catch the ball in the air in 50/50 scenarios. The game isn't close to simulation just yet and EA has a lot to improve. The good is gameplay is a lot more balanced than Madden 20, The Yard is super fun, and Face of the Franchise is a pretty cool story mode you could play.… Expand
  41. Dingus113
    Sep 5, 2020
    7
    I think most of the people reviewing this game haven’t played it. There are gameplay improvements which are noticeable and welcome additions. Personally I haven’t experienced many bugs. I have had a few crashes though. The Yard is very fun and a good addition. Franchise and MUT are both unchanged. Overall, the game is pretty good and fun, outside a few minor bugs.
  42. shylocklynn
    Dec 27, 2020
    7
    Although Madden 21 is not as good as we expected, as a video game updated with real-world data, it can still reach several points. Especially some updates on the new game platform have made the game more playable as a whole. Many high-rated players are launched every week. One thing that is not good is that the Madden 21 Coins I get in the game is not enough for me to use it in the game,Although Madden 21 is not as good as we expected, as a video game updated with real-world data, it can still reach several points. Especially some updates on the new game platform have made the game more playable as a whole. Many high-rated players are launched every week. One thing that is not good is that the Madden 21 Coins I get in the game is not enough for me to use it in the game, so I have to buy Madden 21 Coins on a third-party platform. I bought Madden 21 Coins from U4GM recommended by my friend.I don’t know if the account is dangerous.… Expand
  43. RyanRedemption2
    Oct 20, 2020
    6
    For this year's edition of Madden NFL 21, I gave it a 6/10. Most of the points are for graphics, this game hasn't changed much since last year's edition which is why it's only a 6/10. Many have reported bugs and issues with the game, while I am not discrediting them, I am reviewing off of my experience and I haven't seen many bugs in the game. The most noticeable differences are theFor this year's edition of Madden NFL 21, I gave it a 6/10. Most of the points are for graphics, this game hasn't changed much since last year's edition which is why it's only a 6/10. Many have reported bugs and issues with the game, while I am not discrediting them, I am reviewing off of my experience and I haven't seen many bugs in the game. The most noticeable differences are the graphics, which are better, and the new O-Line and D-Line mechanics which I tend to prefer over Madden NFL 20. Now on to the bad things, if this game was flawless, it wouldn't be a 6/10. Franchise mode feels uninspired as usual, with little to no effort, and no real change. Bugs that have been in the game for years are still there along with some newer bugs piled on there. Commentary feels exactly the same with only minor changes and a few lines that were altered slightly. Face of the Franchise mode is worse than FOtF in Madden NFL 20, the story is cheesy, there are multiple glitches and bugs that take away from the overall immersion. The biggest change for the good in FOtF mode is that you can start the game all the way back in high school, which adds to the overall experience in my opinion. Ultimate Team, like usual is a cash grab that is built on microtransactions and loot boxes rather than real skill and team building. Superstar KO is essentially the same mode as it was in Madden NFL 20. I would say that the biggest addition to the game is the mode "The Yard" but even that mode feels generally uninspired. There is much to be improved on for Madden NFL 22, considering that the biggest changes from Madden NFL 20 to Madden NFL 21 being colorful uniforms, mouthguards, and better graphics.
    In conclusion, if you have Madden NFL 20, I recommend that you stay with that because Madden NFL 20 is the far better game. If you haven't played madden before, I recommend Madden NFL 20 over this any day, the only situation where I could see someone buying this game would be for the roster update and new teams.    … Expand
  44. dillydilly2_
    Aug 30, 2020
    6
    It’s a solid game like it is every year, but the franchise mode is so disappointing, and overall the game is pretty much the same. Adding “The Yard” is cool I guess, but Madden needs to give it’s fans a real reason to spend 60 bucks on the game besides roster updates. Giving this game a “6“ is being generous
  45. gangamg
    Sep 2, 2020
    6
    games ehh at best... has some solid moments... i still think about nfl 2k5 everyday.. madden went wrong when they implanted MUT and since it makes billions off MUT they stopped fully caring about the gameplay improvments. look forward to 2k21 next yr
  46. Oof69
    Jan 22, 2021
    6
    It's an OK game but overall it's just the same game every year but with a different meta but I'm not one to really complain so I gave it a decent review.
  47. Ghop123
    Apr 6, 2021
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is ok I think it was more in depth with franchise than madden 20 but the gameplay is terrible it relies on animations to play the game it won’t take actual physics it is supposed to be a simulation game but when the runner crosses a blocker he lets up than that defender comes in you aim outside the animations already slow you up you or not going to beat him the face of the franchise mode is terrible y have to start in high school with games that aren’t even fun all they did was copy and paste madden 20 and made a different design franchise mode is more buggy they made trades better but I can’t play by myself in a franchise they try to get young kids by adding some weird terrible feature like adding rappers basketball players and the yard making stupid stuff and weird animations make you hate this mode challenges are whacky and online gameplay is just stupid and superstar KO is laggy and insanely terrible animations… Expand
  48. Bmoore2k6
    Aug 27, 2020
    5
    Honestly, it doesn’t even deserve a 5. It’s quite obvious they put minimal effort into improving this game, and was completely okay with releasing it with the dozens of glitches and bugs that came with this game. The Yard is different, it’s just okay..... but it’s another way EA is trying to make more money off an already overpriced version of Madden 19. Funny thing is. When 2k comes outHonestly, it doesn’t even deserve a 5. It’s quite obvious they put minimal effort into improving this game, and was completely okay with releasing it with the dozens of glitches and bugs that came with this game. The Yard is different, it’s just okay..... but it’s another way EA is trying to make more money off an already overpriced version of Madden 19. Funny thing is. When 2k comes out with their arcade style NFL game, it will more than likely be more realistic than EA’s “simulation” game. This game is an absolute joke and should be an insult to not only NFL fans, but the players as well. This is so far from realistic. EA only cares about money and it shows by the minimum effort they displayed. I want my money back. No patch can recover this game.… Expand
  49. froznma
    Aug 30, 2020
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. it’s not bad if you don’t care that it’s the same game pretty much. what could make this game better is making it less than 60 **** bucks instead make it like 30 normally. than people would love this game. honestly 19 was the beginning of the end. this game ain’t **** it’s just way overpriced… Expand
  50. WebHeadedHero
    Aug 30, 2020
    5
    I have a low bar for EA’s Madden but I genuinely feel insulted by how bad this game is. I will not be purchasing next year.
  51. Dmull71
    Sep 4, 2020
    5
    The Yard mode and MUT are really the only reasons to play this game. Everything else is lackluster.
  52. RuggedEmu
    Nov 11, 2020
    4
    This is the worst madden I’ve ever played, and I’ve been playing since the early 2000s. It’s buggy, the gameplay is bad, and the matchmaking always puts you against sweaties. It’s purely not very fun and clearly EA (unsurprisingly) only cares about people buying packs. Poorly done. Shameful, really.
  53. OldSilentHill
    Aug 31, 2020
    4
    This is 21, which has a 20 banner next to the field, which has a 19 banner at the back of the seats, which runs on a 18 version, which is actually a 17 version patched.
  54. RalphPrestwood
    Aug 27, 2020
    4
    I agree with most of the reviews.. the game actually regressed?? GAME SPEED CAN'T BE CHANGE so it's like a arcade, the music is terrible but what made it worst there's no ORCHESTRA music... I personally only have the orchestra music because the music is always terrible. THE PENALTIES are cranked up and it does nothing for a simulation setting.... I would skip it this year.. it's so badI agree with most of the reviews.. the game actually regressed?? GAME SPEED CAN'T BE CHANGE so it's like a arcade, the music is terrible but what made it worst there's no ORCHESTRA music... I personally only have the orchestra music because the music is always terrible. THE PENALTIES are cranked up and it does nothing for a simulation setting.... I would skip it this year.. it's so bad THIS IS MY FIRST REVIEW... madden 20 movements was more realistic ..... what the hell happen?… Expand
  55. Fishstew
    Sep 2, 2020
    4
    Madden 21 is yet another EA Sports copy and paste attempt at simulation American Football. The large majority of players have always wanted a more fleshed out Franchise mode. But, alas EA never listens and wishes to further antagonise their loyal customer base.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Overall score: 4/10    … Expand
  59. MisterNoDaysOff
    Aug 26, 2020
    4
    This is a bad football game. More disappointing is that it is the same bad football game they have released for the past 3-5 years. The NFL license sells this game. The lack of a AAA competior in the football space sells this game. The game being good, has not sold this game in some time. I buy this game because I love the NFL and I love football. Not because I love the product.
  60. Boogiewoogie
    Aug 27, 2020
    4
    The zeroes and 10s are just silly review bombing. I played the 10 hour trial. The game is not a zero but it's not much better. Frankly the biggest issue is the cpu defensive AI. It's atrocious. The game is not tuned for single player games. However even in multiplayer you cant user everyone. The defensive coverage AI is broken and that infects the entire game. 4 points for some nice newThe zeroes and 10s are just silly review bombing. I played the 10 hour trial. The game is not a zero but it's not much better. Frankly the biggest issue is the cpu defensive AI. It's atrocious. The game is not tuned for single player games. However even in multiplayer you cant user everyone. The defensive coverage AI is broken and that infects the entire game. 4 points for some nice new animations and player user movement.… Expand
  61. 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.
  62. Beatztronic
    Aug 29, 2020
    4
    Yes I'm giving Madden 21 a 4/10.
    POSITIVES
    + Game looks good on the field with great lighting and a strong attention to detail on equipment and uniforms. NEGATIVES - Not many changes in gameplay ugh glitchy as hell. So many glitches it's almost unplayable. Framerate drops are frequent really hindering gameplay. Animation based movement is more noticeable than ever creating a slu of    Yes I'm giving Madden 21 a 4/10.
    POSITIVES
    + Game looks good on the field with great lighting and a strong attention to detail on equipment and uniforms.
    NEGATIVES
    - Not many changes in gameplay ugh glitchy as hell. So many glitches it's almost unplayable. Framerate drops are frequent really hindering gameplay. Animation based movement is more noticeable than ever creating a slu of unrealistic blocking, running, catching and tackling sequences making the game seem scripted. Slant plays still to easy as the user. New running cuts create a fast feel but look bad and akward not blending with the gameplay. Horrible presentation, no on field refs, lifeless sidelines no cheerleaders or fan interactions. Cut scenes are all over the place i still dont understand showing
    the actual game gameplay before the game even starts. Commentary is the same loud and overbearing repetitive nonsense that doesn't fit the flow of the game. The new YARD mode is shallow overall. If your expexting a NFL Street type experience you way off, as the yard is strictly arcade you don't pick your players or team it does it automatically ugh. Franchise mode is exactly the same ugh.    … Expand
  63. Apkmg
    Aug 31, 2020
    4
    Trashhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
  64. Milliknows
    Sep 2, 2020
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Lack of innovation... I’m pretty good at the game and my friends always tell me to buy it just to play against them. But trust me don’t. Any game is good simply by playing with friends... even **** games like madden. Franchise mode again takes a backseat, very animations based gameplay, very buggy, clearly lack of even a hint of trying. If this doesn’t change soon. This will definitely be my last madden game idc how much I love football.… Expand
  65. taban
    Sep 4, 2020
    4
    Some good but one very bad glitch. About every 10 plays the screen goes white while the play is still going. I can’t see my players due to this. Never had this before. This occurs in franchise mode.
  66. harrycole
    Sep 4, 2020
    4
    The majority of this game's overwhelming hate and revolt is from the Madden purists & traditionalists. Madden & FIFA purists have been in the same boat for some time now, being fed virtually the same game every 12 months and forking out $70-$90 for some updated uniforms and rosters. In other words, if you're a loyal player of many years there's a high chance you'll be dissatisfied at howThe majority of this game's overwhelming hate and revolt is from the Madden purists & traditionalists. Madden & FIFA purists have been in the same boat for some time now, being fed virtually the same game every 12 months and forking out $70-$90 for some updated uniforms and rosters. In other words, if you're a loyal player of many years there's a high chance you'll be dissatisfied at how this game plays, its lack of exciting and playable modes (The Yard is a nice addition but very shallow). Steer clear of microtransactions, and don't buy Madden 21 if it's Ultimate Team you're keen on. Franchise is key, and even that has faults and bugs. Having said that, there are long periods that allow you to forget how bad the game is. Another lazy instalment by EA who are no strangers to wringing cash out of their fanbases.… Expand
  67. Csylvester21
    Sep 10, 2020
    4
    My opinion the game is a little bit better than 20 but madden 21 is not that great. The game feels more like a arcade then simulation. Like for example, when you get a first down the fans in the stadium scream “first down” just like they do on superstar KO which nobody on earth will say that at a NFL game. And the pass rush system can be very overpowering as well.
  68. 2many2mons
    Sep 14, 2020
    4
    Ea ruins another game, once again. The yard is one of the only bright spots in the game, you can progress without paying a small fortune and presents fun new game play opportunity, and the character customization is fun.But even in the yard its still hard to ignore Ea standing in front of you in a thong shouting MONEY MONEY, GIVE ME MONEY! Ultimate team is a pay to win game mode, that eaEa ruins another game, once again. The yard is one of the only bright spots in the game, you can progress without paying a small fortune and presents fun new game play opportunity, and the character customization is fun.But even in the yard its still hard to ignore Ea standing in front of you in a thong shouting MONEY MONEY, GIVE ME MONEY! Ultimate team is a pay to win game mode, that ea shoves down your face. Face of the franchise is where you play through a bad story and too easy to win college games, that makes you wonder how this is the company that made longshot. Franchise is a buggy mess. All and all this is a bad game and possibly the worst madden ever.… Expand
  69. Requiescat666
    Sep 2, 2020
    3
    It´s a 60$ ( or more) Roster update from Madden 20...Buggy, Glitchy and broken, every year seems more like EA treats Madden ( or your favourite sport franchise like FIFA or NBA) as a Cash Cow, that sells no matter what they release
  70. AutoErect
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    I'll start out by saying the yard is a fun addition to the game which warrants at least some credit. That however is the only good addition to the game, Face of the Franchise has some of the worst voice acting I've seen in video games and has a horrible linear story where you are beating teams by 100 points and winning national title games but somehow get beat for the starting position.I'll start out by saying the yard is a fun addition to the game which warrants at least some credit. That however is the only good addition to the game, Face of the Franchise has some of the worst voice acting I've seen in video games and has a horrible linear story where you are beating teams by 100 points and winning national title games but somehow get beat for the starting position. Franchise is untouched nothing new was added. Almost all gameplay mechanics are the same from last year. If you plan to buy the game hoping for an improvement in these areas do yourself a favor and don't bother buying it.… Expand
  71. Mr_ManicMike
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    I love football, that's why I keep buying the game. It's my only option. EA changed a lot this year, especially the speed of the game. Defense feels extremely slow, making it almost impossible to stop anyone with speed on offense. Be prepared for a lot of drag routes ran from the slot that even if you user a quick linebacker you'll have hard time defending. The run defense feels like it'sI love football, that's why I keep buying the game. It's my only option. EA changed a lot this year, especially the speed of the game. Defense feels extremely slow, making it almost impossible to stop anyone with speed on offense. Be prepared for a lot of drag routes ran from the slot that even if you user a quick linebacker you'll have hard time defending. The run defense feels like it's better this year, well maybe more like it could be better. They added more moves to the defensive line which I actually love. Only down side, once again, is the slowed down defensive player movement, which makes it extremely difficult to actually get the sack. I feel like they were trying to take a step in the right direction with more realistic play, but they didn't strike a good balance. The most infuriating part for me though would be the terrible AI zone defense. Defensive players will stand there like statues as a receiver runs by. That and in a game which heavily features a mobile QB like Lamar Jackson, they probably should have left QB contain as a presnap line adjustment for your defense. I honestly enjoyed last years madden a lit more, as ushering a fast LB could overcome a lot of the AI flaws on defense. This year you just have to let the offense do what ever they want and hope you can stop them in the red zone or force a fumble.… Expand
  72. NxtDoc
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    Madden NFL 21 is nearly the same game as Madden NFL 13 on the PS3. Same animations, body sculpts, and gameplay. Thr graphics a poor.. I am not sure how they can not be better, they are only slightly better than Madden 13's, with just a resolution boost.

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

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

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

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

    I had to adjust my previous score of 5 because EA thinks they can patch in the mediocre QB Kaepernick and the critical reception will go away. NO F YOU EA. Fix Madden    … Expand
  73. Cmortonwvu
    Sep 2, 2020
    3
    EA has taken what they learned from Madden Mobile and put it on a disc. It is nothing more than a money grab. I'm not paying money to open a pro pack. EA you have a ton of money, make a game, not a cash grab. I want to make me as a player, work, get drafted and be the best player in a league.
  74. DaBears020
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    Madden NFL 21 is a disappointment for football fans and gaming fans alike. The game is riddled with gameplay glitches that suck the fun out of playing. Many legacy issues, in gameplay, game mode content, and player models, have remained untouched. Franchise mode is still notoriously shallow and neglected, face of the franchise has increased depth but suffers from an awful and unrealisticMadden NFL 21 is a disappointment for football fans and gaming fans alike. The game is riddled with gameplay glitches that suck the fun out of playing. Many legacy issues, in gameplay, game mode content, and player models, have remained untouched. Franchise mode is still notoriously shallow and neglected, face of the franchise has increased depth but suffers from an awful and unrealistic story, and the yard is a decent idea with sub par execution. Improvements to ultimate team and superstar ok remain to be determined. The continuation of these problems make the game feel worse than its extremely similar past counterparts. The only positives of this game over the previous iteration are its new great-looking UI elements in menus and loading screens, and the implemented “COD” rating. Overall review: stick to madden 20 unless an improved version comes to the ps5.… Expand
  75. Imakeokreviews
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    This one is personal. Maddens been the same game since 2015 and I have mostly disliked them even though football is my favorite sport. I’ve had problems with the series but not as much to wear I never buy any of them. But since I watched a video on madden 08 and seven I am pissed off at what a cash grab this series of became . Madden now is literally the equivalent of taking aThis one is personal. Maddens been the same game since 2015 and I have mostly disliked them even though football is my favorite sport. I’ve had problems with the series but not as much to wear I never buy any of them. But since I watched a video on madden 08 and seven I am pissed off at what a cash grab this series of became . Madden now is literally the equivalent of taking a battery out and making every season a $60 video game Even though this one has my favorite cast of rookies I still won’t buy this game And hope you won’t waste your money either just keep playing Madden 16-20 it’s the same game… Expand
  76. 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.
  77. Realgeese
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    I am sick of EA pumping out the same broken garbage year after year. Do they even test this game at all? There are so many things wrong with just the core gameplay that I cannot even begin to list them. Do not even get me started on the mess that is franchise. The community is FED UP. FIX THIS GRABAGE!!!!
  78. Carterb67
    Aug 29, 2020
    3
    Same game, different year. Do better, EA. Otherwise I'll be waiting until 2K give us football back.
  79. conlinwi
    Aug 30, 2020
    3
    Madden 21’s downsides weigh out the upsides unfortunately. An already offensive-dominant game now has possibly the worst defense in any Madden game to date. Many of the animations are recycled, as are the commentators which are GOD AWFUL, and are once again unrealistic; not to mention the many bugs that come along with them. Ultimate Team has the right foundation, but they need to inputMadden 21’s downsides weigh out the upsides unfortunately. An already offensive-dominant game now has possibly the worst defense in any Madden game to date. Many of the animations are recycled, as are the commentators which are GOD AWFUL, and are once again unrealistic; not to mention the many bugs that come along with them. Ultimate Team has the right foundation, but they need to input more effort. The Yard was a good addition, however it lacks content. Not fun unless you’re playing with friends.

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

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

    Summary: Madden 20 was a step in the right direction, but Madden 21 just feels like a dud. It’s boring, and it’s too similar to Madden 20. Many of the game modes don’t have enough content or were just recycled from last year. It’s unfortunate however I’m sure the pandemic had something to do with the obvious lack of effort    … Expand
  80. Beastboy2000
    Aug 30, 2020
    3
    This game is absolutely the same game every year but a different roster. I’m mad at the NFL please Take away the license EA is not using it wisely give it to 2k look what they used to do with it. In my opinion they had made the best football simulation game ever. I just get the game because it’s the only CHOICE it’s not fair that this is the only game I can go to to get a a nfl video gameThis game is absolutely the same game every year but a different roster. I’m mad at the NFL please Take away the license EA is not using it wisely give it to 2k look what they used to do with it. In my opinion they had made the best football simulation game ever. I just get the game because it’s the only CHOICE it’s not fair that this is the only game I can go to to get a a nfl video game #NFLDropEA #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  81. jcoffman
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    Here's an honest, fair review, even though EA has neglected the core game itself over micro-transactions.
    Pro's: Wow, where to start? There aren't too many.
    Graphics (8/10) are improved, slightly, and the player movement is a bit smoother. The rookie bio pics look slightly more photo realistic and aren't as jarring when sorting through a roster with current players and auto-simulated    Here's an honest, fair review, even though EA has neglected the core game itself over micro-transactions.
    Pro's: Wow, where to start? There aren't too many.
    Graphics (8/10) are improved, slightly, and the player movement is a bit smoother. The rookie bio pics look slightly more photo realistic and aren't as jarring when sorting through a roster with current players and auto-simulated rookies. A few player models still have heads that are too large for the body, but overall player likeness is better. However, this should be expected from a billion dollar company like EA..
    Gameplay (4/10) This might be a bit generous, but it's a least playable. Again, it feels like a patch but there are some minor improvements, mainly the skill sticks and d-line play. Playing d-line is a viable option now. I also like that the game play is slower and deliberate and a bit less arcade like. The problem is, games feel scripted and rely to heavily on animations. If a gang tackle is occurring and I'm running up to the ball carrier, I should be able to land a hit stick in certain situations (if a RB or WR is being stood up or trying to break a tackle), but you can't bc you are not a part of the gang tackle animation. Animations also take plays out of bounds which gives the appearance of a late hit, or it just looks bad. Overall, EA does a poor job of simulating real life football.
    The Yard, FOTF, MUT: (0/10) or I DON'T CARE. MUT has ruined gaming with micro-transactions (go ahead and waste $ each year re-buying cards). FOTF looks generic and the fact that you get the same outcome and only get to participate in partial college games is laughable. I will eventually try The Yard, but a last minute unfocused attempt to prepare for competition is not why I buy this game. Honestly, they need to package MUT and The Yard as a separate 'game' so fans of simulation football have a chance at a decent game.
    Franchise (110) gets a 1 bc the menu background is blue and I love blue. Yes, the text reads better but honestly the UI was fine. Otherwise, Franchise mode is EXACTLY THE SAME!!!!!!!!!! The scenario engine was neglected, so no new roster competition scenarios, trade, injury, mentor-ships, etc. was updated or added. This one feature should have multiple layers, yet is one layered and microwaved leftovers. Scouting is the same, trades are the same and still broken. No stat tracking, qb pressures and hits aren't a stat; sacks still aren't recorded correctly. There is no historic stat tracking, still, and you can't sign free agents to any contract type unless you are in the free agency period. Rosters aren't up-to-date nor do they have most undrafted rookie free-agents which is a HUGE part of roster building and adding depth. Within 2 weeks of the draft most undrafted rookies have signed; there is no reason these players aren't in the game or if they are they are generally added very late into the year. There's no combine, no rookie mini-camp/training camp; practice is stripped down still. You still can't adjust player arch-types within a scheme. The list goes on and on...and let's not forget the bugs. Lost of bugs. Some I haven't seen mentioned: cannot assign players to formation subs; when I load a franchise, the date for each save reads 1/1/20 and not the actual date/time it was saved. There are frame rate drops, especially when kicking and pulling back to look at superstars/play art, etc. Overall, this mode is as shallow as a drop of water.
    I give a 3, which is generous, as to me it's garbage--not bottom of the trash soaked in mystery liquids trash, it's more like a fresh piece on top of the pile. EA should be embarrassed and ashamed, I hope the devs are, but the executives who call the shots don't seem to care. The NFL sure doesn't; I get the exclusive rights but this product is garbage.    … Expand
  82. Stavasaur
    Aug 31, 2020
    3
    I know I’m in a very small minority but due to where I live, I can only game offline. 4 of the 6 modes in this game require internet to even access. You can do the story mode for some reason. Also the new “The Yard” mode is online only so you can’t even mess around and make a uniform or do couch co op. The modes I can play do almost nothing to improve or even really change from last year.I know I’m in a very small minority but due to where I live, I can only game offline. 4 of the 6 modes in this game require internet to even access. You can do the story mode for some reason. Also the new “The Yard” mode is online only so you can’t even mess around and make a uniform or do couch co op. The modes I can play do almost nothing to improve or even really change from last year. Only reason it’s not a 1 is I do feel the presentation changes look great.… Expand
  83. 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
  84. 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
  85. NickGotti
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    The Yard is fun but bugs out quite a bit. Franchise is the same as it’s been the last 5 years. Face of The Franchise is THE WORST. Absolutely boring and stale and is like to see it go away all together. I refuse to play MUT because all they care about is micro transactions. The yard is their biggest success this year.
  86. Ogbutters
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    Game is terrible basically copy and pasted last year. Made minimal game play adjustments and added nothing new and refreshing. The yard is cool but not as cool as it could be waste of my money I already want to break this game it is the same as last year with the same BS!
  87. Snowballguy8
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is terrible more glitches. The coaches and players turn rainbow! The x factor uniforms look like a 5 year old put them on when the players did a photoshoot with the uniforms on … Expand
  88. vagabond_1178
    Sep 1, 2020
    3
    Too many bugs during gameplay and in the story and poor face of franchise story
  89. Sonicfan10193
    Oct 22, 2020
    3
    Boo! This game just feels the exact same as 18, 19, and 20, if not actually worse. Players clipping through eachother, stupid tip drill plays that happen every other drive, it goes on and on. Franchise and Core gameplay feel like the code got copied and pasted, The Yard and Face of the Franchise get intensely boring after minimal gameplay time, and the game just feels predictable andBoo! This game just feels the exact same as 18, 19, and 20, if not actually worse. Players clipping through eachother, stupid tip drill plays that happen every other drive, it goes on and on. Franchise and Core gameplay feel like the code got copied and pasted, The Yard and Face of the Franchise get intensely boring after minimal gameplay time, and the game just feels predictable and Boring. Rookie and Pro are too easy and All-Pro/All-Madden are stupid. There is a very good and justified reason this game goes up for a 0.2 on user score, and I totally understand why they chose to put zeros for this game.… Expand
  90. RockpoleonDyn
    Dec 24, 2020
    3
    Broken modes, bland storyline that doesn't go into detail at all, excessive music that you'll turn off within a day or 2. Bugs galore.
  91. Iwantfood
    Jun 15, 2022
    3
    Fully updated the game is better but still a total mess ya franchise did get some needed things added but the gameplay is horrible, face of the franchise is better but still not good, the acting was terrible, the yard is cool but the gameplay ruins it
  92. frogwipe
    Dec 21, 2020
    2
    Honestly, this game isn't fun. I've spent about 6-7 hours with it and I'm bored out of my mind. There's is nothing immersive or engaging about the gameplay. Can't control the location of a pass, the button response on defense is abysmal (e.g. I push the jump/'defend pass' button and nothing happens), the kicking game will put you to sleep, and in general, there have been no innovativeHonestly, this game isn't fun. I've spent about 6-7 hours with it and I'm bored out of my mind. There's is nothing immersive or engaging about the gameplay. Can't control the location of a pass, the button response on defense is abysmal (e.g. I push the jump/'defend pass' button and nothing happens), the kicking game will put you to sleep, and in general, there have been no innovative changes to the core mechanics since I can remember and I've been buying/trying Madden nearly every year for 25 years. I think I'm officially done until they actually make changes and code in some fun.… Expand
  93. ketexan
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    So I am going to try to be as honest as I can with this review. I don't want to jump on the hate bandwagon....but come on EA. This really is a disappointment. I am actually mad at myself for not sticking to my guns and buying this game even with all the reviews I heard and read before release. I did keep from pre-ordering, which I have done every year since PS1. I cannot say anything aboutSo I am going to try to be as honest as I can with this review. I don't want to jump on the hate bandwagon....but come on EA. This really is a disappointment. I am actually mad at myself for not sticking to my guns and buying this game even with all the reviews I heard and read before release. I did keep from pre-ordering, which I have done every year since PS1. I cannot say anything about MUT as I do not play that mode and never have, save for 2019 and even then, did not play it much at all. As far as the other modes, The Yard is actually a fun experience and I enjoy playing that. I like the customization options, but of course, this being EA, it is monetized heavily. If you don't mind grinding and earning currency through gameplay then this is the mode for you. I have been in this mode almost a majority of my time. I played through the FOF and like the other reviews on here, the story is horrible and its almost a slap in the face how they try to make it look like your choices mean something but of course they do not. It's a mess of a mode that they need to just scrap all together so they can fix franchise mode. Also like other reviews, Franchise is exactly the same as 20 as far as I can tell. I feel like I am beating a dead horse here, but EA really needs to evaluate the direction they are going with this game and either put in a better effort or just give up entirely. What this series needs is for them to skip a year or even two so they have plenty of time to fix everything that is wrong with this game. There is plenty to keep them busy for two years. Please NFL, either step in and mandate EA fix this game or open it up for other developers to take a shot at it. Competition is exactly what EA needs to get them to put actual effort into their game. I am giving this a 2 because the Yard is fun to play and I am enjoying that mode. Could have been a 5 but since they decided to make the yard another microtransaction nightmare my final rating is a 2. I think that is fair.… Expand
  94. HeavyMetalSloth
    Sep 7, 2020
    2
    I told myself that i would not buy Madden 21, but football season is right around the corner and i wanted to play a football game and unfortunately Madden 21 is the only NFL football simulation game around. So here i am writing a review on Madden 21. Below are my likes and dislikes:

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

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

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

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

    Conclusion:
    I was originally going to give this game a 5/10, but seeing the dislikes I have for the game and how the game remains unchanged I will give it a 2/10 because after all it is a football game and is there if you have the itch to play such a game. There is so many ideas and passion that can be put in this game, but EA remains complacent on where the franchise currently stands and we may never get the Madden we want.    … Expand
  95. Mankster3
    Sep 15, 2020
    2
    I’ve played Madden since 1996. This years game showed promise but still is a disappointment in some ways. One edition I like about this years edition is with the defensive line power moves. This is an upgrade to me as I always enjoy playing and defense linemen or blitzing linebackers. It works well and feels true to life. Kinda like a game within a game similar to a defense and offenseI’ve played Madden since 1996. This years game showed promise but still is a disappointment in some ways. One edition I like about this years edition is with the defensive line power moves. This is an upgrade to me as I always enjoy playing and defense linemen or blitzing linebackers. It works well and feels true to life. Kinda like a game within a game similar to a defense and offense linemen every snap. Gameplay is good like last year and players move on the field quicker. Graphics as always look amazing. Better than ever this generation. The Yard was added it's ok i don't play it. The Bad: All the music is rap and nothing else. Even in the stadiums all the loudspeakers play is rap at timeouts or in between plays. This is not true to life. What about Ozzy singing Crazy Train? GnR? Jump Around? The Packers touchdown celebration song is Bang on a drum all day that was in Madden 25 and was great. That’s not the song that plays, it's some random Rap song plays. Why not contact and confirm all 32 teams touchdown celebration songs and stadiums celebration? Go Pack Go fan chant in the stadium sounds more realistic but that’s about it. I miss the option for the Sam Spence NFL films music. So I just shut off the music and make my own playlist on Spotify. Franchise should be deeper glad they are working on it. Super Bowl celebration is poor needs updated. My Wish List: The micro transactions are crazy, this needs to stop. I have to grind a lot of MUT scenarios to get one player that is 77 Overall but then I can do upgrades? Just make a great player 88-99 Overall and call it a day. You can buy Randy "Moss" clothes for the Yard cost $18?! Not cool. Not much else to do in the franchise mode on release. #fixmaddenfranchise worked for us fans but why do we have to still tell you what we want in this game? Put refs back on the field, no way to pump up the crowd as a player on defense is a sad omission bring it back. Better commentary or real commentators. Give me back Jim Nantz and bring in Tony Romo. Shoot bring back John Madden to comment on some plays record his voice one last time in super high quality or go back and get his voice recordings as a third commentator! Give us commentary options of Fox, CBS, NBC, or ESPN broadcast with the actual commentators from those networks. Give us different options of commentators we like. They make enough off this game to pay the right people to get that full game day immersion. A live weather implementation would be great, I'm in Wisconsin and if it's a snowy-day it would be great to play the game and have the same weather conditions currently in Green Bay. Even dynamic weather, this is already in racing games. Especially if you are playing a 3 hour football game the weather should change with wind, rain, or snow. Even add the sun setting. NCAA 14 had this option in 2013 a PS3 game. I wish there were classic teams like in the PS2 days. NBA 2K has this. I can be the 93 Chicago Bulls and play as Michael Jordan or I can choose all time Lakers and play as Magic and Kareem. Why can’t I choose 96 Packers and play as Brett Favre or Reggie White or play as the 1966 Packers as Bart Star? I could do this in Madden 07 on PS2 but not ever since. They have the players association and classic player cards in MUT why can’t these players-historic team be in exhibition mode like NBA 2K? Bring back players history in the stats. There is no option to see who a players previous team was and what there stats were on that team. This was in previous games also. Add assistant coaches and have the option for retired players to be coaches. Have a coaching carousel. This is now in NHL 20 and is very good why can't it be in Madden? Bring back Mini Camp/Training. This was a fun mode on the PS2 you could do rushing attack, LB tackling, DL rush and Sack, CB interception/swat, Passing Drills with your QB's, WR drills it was great! Then whichever player you used in the drills you could upgrade a few points to areas where they need improvement. This would be great to be able to do every week in the franchise mode so I can upgrade my team by spending time with each player on things they need to improve like true NFL football. I think EA needs to use an open world engine and dump Frostbite engine as it was made for first person shooters...not simulation third person football.
    Overall I am kinda sad at all the features they have taken away throughout the years. Madden 2005 had more franchise features and again NCAA 14 had a lot more details and more immersion that is just not here. Why take so much out of a game when each year the expectation is that you will add MORE features not less? The game is fun fir me as a NFL football game. To each their own if you don’t like it as much. If they had my wish list which is very possible this game would be a 10. But it most likely will not for years to come and on next generation consoles.    … Expand
  96. LucaCritics
    Sep 6, 2020
    2
    Madden NFL 21 Review: 1.5/10
    This is unacceptable.
    Lazy developers trying to make easy money by building their 60$ game as a money milking machine, full of micro-transactions it's something that must be stopped. Repetitive content and bugs that persist from older releases show how little they care for football fans. I'm not giving Madden NFL 21 a zero because no game deserves that    Madden NFL 21 Review: 1.5/10
    This is unacceptable.
    Lazy developers trying to make easy money by building their 60$ game as a money milking machine, full of micro-transactions it's something that must be stopped.
    Repetitive content and bugs that persist from older releases show how little they care for football fans.
    I'm not giving Madden NFL 21 a zero because no game deserves that score, but a 1.5 is a fair review for this game.
    WAKE UP EA!    … Expand
  97. JackalopeThundr
    Sep 10, 2022
    2
    Sadly, Madden has not changed much over the years. I will play it on Game Pass and try a season or two, then realize it does not change and I remove it and move to something else. I think it would be cool to let you to have more creativity in the game: Build your own team or have a fantasy draft, create your own schedule each season, or even be able to move divisions or cities if youSadly, Madden has not changed much over the years. I will play it on Game Pass and try a season or two, then realize it does not change and I remove it and move to something else. I think it would be cool to let you to have more creativity in the game: Build your own team or have a fantasy draft, create your own schedule each season, or even be able to move divisions or cities if you really want. Something so I do not play 6 games versus the same teams each season. Now it is fun to try and destroy everyone and break records but that is only fun for so long.… Expand
  98. 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
  99. Seanimus
    Aug 29, 2020
    2
    Lazy. Half baked and exactly what youd expect from an annual EA sport title. Honestly dont waste your money on this cash grab!
  100. Erick561
    Jun 17, 2021
    2
    This game needs change. The franchise mode has not been touched in years, and it's the same game every year. We need a better game EA!
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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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