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. PaddyP508
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It's the same recycled crap they put out every year, it's a roster update with a tacked on crap arcade mode because 2K is now allowed to make an arcade NFL game and EA is shook from that. The gameplay is scripted garbage just like it has been for a while now, the player likeness is still not very good at all and franchise mode is basic and uninteresting. This game is absolutely terribleIt's the same recycled crap they put out every year, it's a roster update with a tacked on crap arcade mode because 2K is now allowed to make an arcade NFL game and EA is shook from that. The gameplay is scripted garbage just like it has been for a while now, the player likeness is still not very good at all and franchise mode is basic and uninteresting. This game is absolutely terrible and the only morons that like it are the ones that spend real money on packs for MUT mode. EA is awful!… Expand
  2. jikan2004
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Ea reposted the same buggy mess and charged me 60 dollars. For which pisses me off. The fact that there will never be another 2k football game because of them makes me want to punch someone.
  3. waidwml21
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    I wish meta critic allowed negative numbers Fix Madden Francine EA is a joke
  4. 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.
  5. KHEH32
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Only 5,000 characters? And to waste a precious 1 on a comma. I could write a book.

    This game is less than nothing. I expected nothing compared to the past 5 releases. It delivered less than that. Number 1, and most importantly- FRANCHISE MODE. You literally have a passionate fan base that invested their hard-earned money on your title for DECADES and we've been BEGGING EA to bring back    Only 5,000 characters? And to waste a precious 1 on a comma. I could write a book.

    This game is less than nothing. I expected nothing compared to the past 5 releases. It delivered less than that.

    Number 1, and most importantly- FRANCHISE MODE. You literally have a passionate fan base that invested their hard-earned money on your title for DECADES and we've been BEGGING EA to bring back features within that mode that made us fall in love with the game and continue our unreciprocated loyalty despite our pleas to improve franchise mode falling on deaf ears.

    Secondly, your launch was absolutely abysmal. I finally invested in MUT packs to stay competitive for once to get the best experience, and you FAILED. MiSERABLY. The one mode you pander to you can't even get right.

    Thirdly- what the hell is this Yard crap? It's atrocious. Your moms should slap you for investing all these "resources" you evidently don't have to improve Franchise mode and allocating them to this awful, unplayable, unfun, and unrealistic "simulation". EA has an exclusivity deal with the No Fun League to create a simulated experience, no? Where is this supposed "simulation"? I'll tell you where it isn't- it isn't in the mechanics, game play experience, or anywhere in MUT, the yard, or the hellscape that is your replacement of the already cringeworthy Story Mode.

    I'm wasting my time. If I could give this a -10, I'd give it a -100.

    #boycottMadden21    … Expand
  6. SaintsBoss88
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Game is the exact same with minor differences. Still so many glitches, not a finished product at all. The fact that they get away with this every year is despicable. I wanna see a lot more changes every year (10 times what we are getting now). Literally a group of 10 people can to all they've done in about a month.
  7. 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.
  8. hazelnutdragoon
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    The free agents who were rookies last year have not been updated. Jesus Christ, what trash.
  9. SavagePanther1
    Aug 29, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is atrocious. I’ll be fair I don’t have much of a gripe about the gameplay itself it’s not horrible I think a patch could tone down some of the deep ball interceptions cause right now corners win 90% of jump balls which isn’t realistic (hence the term 50/50 ball) and open field tackling is hard but it might just be because I’m bad and I love the yard....the rest of this game however should be thrown in the garbage and blow into pieces. Face of the franchise is without a doubt the laziest and most poorly written “story mode” in the history of gaming, you can’t change the difficulty so I just won every game 90-30 the story itself is incoherent garbage and whoever wrote and gave it the green check of approval should probably rethink their career choice, as of today you can only be drafted by the bears unless you pick where you go which is stupid, regular franchise is the same shallow trash mode it’s been for over a decade and as a mainly franchise gamer some of the common sense things that a franchise should have have been missing and continue to be missing which begs me to ask what exactly are the developers doing during the development cycle, answer clearly nothing at all. The menus are slow and laggy and just seem poorly optimized, there’s mouthpieces in the yard but not as an accessory for players in the regular game(explain that). All the legacy issues that have been in the past 4 Maddens are still here and I just don’t understand why they can’t seem to figure this stuff out and it’s not like they don’t know. All in all I love the yard and I have an online franchise so that makes the game fun so I can’t give this game a 0 but giving it anything more than a 1 just isn’t deserved in my opinion so a 1 it is! Hopefully the next gen versions of the game will be better but I have no faith in EA to deliver anything other than a flaming turd packed in a case with Lamar Jackson’s face on it.… Expand
  10. alexrmorris03
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    Got this on loan from a friend to avoid paying for what i inevitably knew this game would be. Absolute garbage. When will this ever change? Gameplay is unrealistic, X factors are overpowered arcade features, no creativity allowed throughout the barren features of this abomination, and to top it off the same old exploitative online gambling targeted towards kids. NFL, listen to consumers, iGot this on loan from a friend to avoid paying for what i inevitably knew this game would be. Absolute garbage. When will this ever change? Gameplay is unrealistic, X factors are overpowered arcade features, no creativity allowed throughout the barren features of this abomination, and to top it off the same old exploitative online gambling targeted towards kids. NFL, listen to consumers, i beg of you. Let 2K or anyone for that matter make a competing game. EA hasn't earned this monopoly. They are the worst elements of greed and the gilded age wrapped into a game developer. And the only way to check their power since the league and media wont is to NOT BUY THIS.… Expand
  11. Amazing_Bagman
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    No improvements, gameplay is the same, developers remain focused on micro transactions above all else. Game looks and plays just like Madden 16, 17,18,19 and 20.
  12. itchi25
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Madden has constantly disappointed the NFL fan base for years. Recycled content with little innovation beyond their singular focus on their money making MUT. Despite all of this, the newest iteration is an all time low of Madden. It truly shows us fans the true greed of EA.
  13. Buddy010
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Madden has remained the same with the same glitches that it has every year. There is nothing special about this Madden; it only backs the fact that EA loves money, and not those who support their creations. Madden needs to be rebranded in the same way that COD was by activision. It's the same game same broken schemes that everybody runs that's what makes this franchise so pathetic.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.
  16. Steff86
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Another EA mess using the same assets as the last game and complete lack of polish. Another year of wasting money on the same players you paid for in the last game.
  17. 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.
  18. 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!
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. OnlyOneHere
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    This game is a huge steaming pile of garbage. This game is exactly the same trash as the past 4 Madden games. All the developers did is update the roster and slapped a 21 number on it. They didn't even spell some of the names correctly. The developers claimed that the gameplay mechanics are innovative, but there is no difference. If anything, it is worse with all the terrible bugs.

    The    This game is a huge steaming pile of garbage. This game is exactly the same trash as the past 4 Madden games. All the developers did is update the roster and slapped a 21 number on it. They didn't even spell some of the names correctly. The developers claimed that the gameplay mechanics are innovative, but there is no difference. If anything, it is worse with all the terrible bugs.

    The physics in this game are laughable. It is pathetic how insanely greedy and lazy these developers are. They are charging $60 for literally the exact same game. I don't recommend this joke of a game at all. This game isn't even worth 1 penny.    … Expand
  22. 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
  23. 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
  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. 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
  26. 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!
  27. 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.
  28. 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.
  29. 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
  30. 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
  31. 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
  32. 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.
  33. 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.
  34. 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.
  35. 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
  36. 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.
  37. 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
  38. 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
  39. tacklinfuel
    Sep 9, 2020
    0
    * Same game as last year.
    * An amazing amount of micro-transactions for a game you pay $60 for. Enough is enough.
    * Players that don't even play in the league to promote some woke nonsense.

    Never again, I will never again buy a sports title from EA.
  40. Serenityinaz12
    Sep 10, 2020
    0
    Get woke - go broke. You put loser Kap in the game, take you L you absolute clowns.
  41. 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.
  42. 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.
  43. 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
  44. someactorkid
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Once again, EA demonstrates why the NFL needs a new company to take over the game license. This is, easily, the laziest full price "upgrade" in Madden's history. The so-called 'improvements' to the AI, the graphics, and other components are so small that I'm convinced they don't exist. What this game lacks in soul and effort, it makes up for in tired old modes that haven't changed inOnce again, EA demonstrates why the NFL needs a new company to take over the game license. This is, easily, the laziest full price "upgrade" in Madden's history. The so-called 'improvements' to the AI, the graphics, and other components are so small that I'm convinced they don't exist. What this game lacks in soul and effort, it makes up for in tired old modes that haven't changed in years, and a generic experience overall. If you've been waiting for a Madden with significant upgrades to jump back into the series for, this ain't it.… Expand
  45. 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
  46. 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
  47. Zorrothomas7
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    Same old same old money stealing game with a monopoly on the franchise, if you buy this game you need help.
  48. Wdranda
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    Garbage, no impact on gameplay for decisions made in face of franchise. An entire rehash of the old game with almost no new changes or additions. Was promised "change" to franchise mode but its literally just a recolor. With an insane amount of bugs.
  49. Nichcr
    Aug 29, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Really getting tired of it in the first week, hope my online leauges and the NFL can bring that want to play it back… Expand
  50. 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
  51. 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
  52. Oysters
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Spending $60 on this game makes Bella Thorns OnlyFans look like a steal. This game is the exact same as it has been for 6-7 years! Imagine going into a comma in 2014 and waking up to play Madden 21. How disappointing do you think that would be? They distract you with new game modes but in reality, they are just new avenues for them to take you (or your parents) money. Shame on EA and shameSpending $60 on this game makes Bella Thorns OnlyFans look like a steal. This game is the exact same as it has been for 6-7 years! Imagine going into a comma in 2014 and waking up to play Madden 21. How disappointing do you think that would be? They distract you with new game modes but in reality, they are just new avenues for them to take you (or your parents) money. Shame on EA and shame on the NFL.… Expand
  53. VertexMF
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    The game has crashed more than not when trying to load up or play any game. It's not a finished product
  54. Lukerozich
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Same as madden 15. Same as madden 16. Same as madden 17. Same as madden 18. Same as madden 18. Same as madden 20.
  55. blaise1234
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This is the worst madden in 20 years I’ve played every one. I’m going to do everything I can to get a refund.
  56. Patriots1996
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is a perfect example of what a monopoly does to the quality of a service/product. Focus is on micro transactions and “improved” gameplay, which is non apparent. This is a copy paste game from previous years. Company does not listen to its fan base. Tried finding any positive out of this game but I fail too find anything. #fixmaddenfranchise #nfldropEA
  57. charliehatesea
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    NFL needs to drop EA. It's absolutely shameful that EA keeps getting away with this each and every year. Just proves how EA really does not care for their customers.
  58. Extendedm9
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The same recycled game every damn year. Zero effort. Never buying another madden game.
  59. Robdawg11
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    So bad it’s basically just ea spitting in your face. and taking your money. Don’t understand how this little of effort is put into a game.
  60. Fig1918
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Not much more than a roster change for the last 5 years or so, which wouldn’t be too bad if the game was decent, but every year the game functions worse. The game has been very bad for over 10 years now, hopefully the NFL wakes up and ends their exclusive contract one of these days.
  61. Harlan1995
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    This game is horrible. The franchise mode is the same. The gameplay is stale, and doesn’t feel fluid at all. The features are stale. They spent time on the stupid yard mode, when they should be focusing on the gameplay and cooler things for madden ultimate team and franchise. The ultimate team has been the same for 2 straight years. This game sucks
  62. GasMann
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
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  63. VixXXXX
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    #NFLdropEA Metacritic and Madden have BOTH lost their way. They continue to lose the trust of their supporters/fans day in and day out. Madden NFL 21 makes the top 10 worst games of all time, look like a gold mine. Congratulations for being worse than BIG RIGS and WORSE than LJN games. That is quite an accomplishment. DO NOT PAY ATTENTION to any positive or mixed reviews. They are all LIES!
  64. Pwn3dbyth3n00b
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    At this point anything I say is just beating a dead horse. The how could you make a game be just a Roster update yet make it worst than the last game you just updating the roster from.
  65. 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
  66. sirjj25
    Sep 2, 2020
    1
    This series has gotten worse with every game to come out. I started playing in the late 90s and played every game though to 09. Then i jump in ever few years. The last game i played was 16 and some how its way better then this. Half the stuff i did in the older games aren't here, and stuff being shown off as new features aren't new at all. On top of that its gotten so heavily monetized,This series has gotten worse with every game to come out. I started playing in the late 90s and played every game though to 09. Then i jump in ever few years. The last game i played was 16 and some how its way better then this. Half the stuff i did in the older games aren't here, and stuff being shown off as new features aren't new at all. On top of that its gotten so heavily monetized, that my player would actually drop the ball, because the stats on his card were not good enough. This game is a money hole with feces on top, and its a game im proud i returned.… Expand
  67. Rboone13
    Sep 2, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Feels like a throwaway game. Misspelled menu words, long lagging load screens, minimal new features, NO changes at all to franchise for the 4th year in a row. Save your money and download an updated roster on Madden 20.… Expand
  68. 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
  69. yurks
    Sep 3, 2020
    10
    Ich hatte schon viel Spaß an Madden 20 und finde das man schon Veränderungen sieht.
  70. Dmull71
    Sep 4, 2020
    5
    The Yard mode and MUT are really the only reasons to play this game. Everything else is lackluster.
  71. maxschuster
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This game is atrocious. Do not buy. It is the biggest waste of money ever. Glitches everywhere, no improvement from Madden 16-20.
  72. Bebe_34
    Sep 8, 2020
    10
    Good game worth buying and trying don't let the reviews run you away tried it yourself
  73. 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
  74. 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
  75. XSHIMMYX
    Sep 19, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. When you see 2019 logos and your guy can’t carry a ball without glitching it makes sense he’s rusty.......wait, no he’s a professional that can carry a ball better than I can carry my baby. It’s broken and it’s trash. EA needs to stop sucking on its own teet and take a page out of the cdpr playbook! And actually give af!… Expand
  76. Paulo300
    Oct 12, 2020
    10
    Jogaço!!! O melhor jogo dos últimos anos!!!! Só não supera o FIFA é claro!!!!
  77. 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.
  78. Wixard564
    Oct 26, 2020
    10
    Only reason 10/10 is so I'm the 69th positive review fjfjkekdigjrjrkfirirjrj
  79. 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
  80. 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…
  81. 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.
  82. 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!
  83. Gunmars
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    EA proves yet again they are just out to milk fanbases for money. All time and effort has, yet again, year after year gone into MTX endeavors. Anything outside MUT receives bare minimum attention and usually gets decent features cut to reintroduce back in down the line as "New Features". Madden 21 should be considered a marginal patch at best, not a 70 dollar product.

    I wish NFL would    EA proves yet again they are just out to milk fanbases for money. All time and effort has, yet again, year after year gone into MTX endeavors. Anything outside MUT receives bare minimum attention and usually gets decent features cut to reintroduce back in down the line as "New Features". Madden 21 should be considered a marginal patch at best, not a 70 dollar product.

    I wish NFL would reconsider their exclusivity deal with EA but it will still sell well and as long as NFL makes their money they don't care about terrible reviews.

    This along with EA sports titles can only be called one thing. They are con artists. Next thing you know Madden 22 they will be selling us on new features like "Better menu functionality" and "working gameplay!".

    EA has no more excuses. They have milked MTX and the same 60 dollar regurgitated games year after year. They have the manpower, financial ability and arguably the biggest sports league in the worlds backing. They can push out a massive new madden year after year, they could overhaul "story mode" and franchise mode, they can redo the entire game in a year if they truly wanted but they just don't because people still pay.

    We as consumers need to tell EA to go shove it, yet again. Only when we financially hurt them will they actually care and even that may not be enough to get a decent product.    … Expand
  84. 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
  85. jj350
    Sep 10, 2020
    0
    This game deserves every bit of criticism it has received. An absolute joke that needs to get political.
  86. Brother3Wright
    Sep 13, 2020
    0
    As a professional artist and developer I’ve always had always hated, “it’s the same game with a new roster” argument. This year Madden added The Yard mode, which is a pretty fun arcade style mode...and that’s it. The Yard is packed with things the community has asked for with a TON of apparel options, and a full face creator! Too bad it’s all locked to this mode. For everything else, itAs a professional artist and developer I’ve always had always hated, “it’s the same game with a new roster” argument. This year Madden added The Yard mode, which is a pretty fun arcade style mode...and that’s it. The Yard is packed with things the community has asked for with a TON of apparel options, and a full face creator! Too bad it’s all locked to this mode. For everything else, it IS a roster upgrade.

    Don’t bother playing franchise, they didn’t even bother updating the commentary. The announcers still talk about Cam Newton getting his Panthers into the red zone, and how Patrick Mahomes hopes to make it to the Super Bowl some day.

    I’ve dealt with the small annual updates Madden has had over the years. Knowing how hard a year cycle is (It’s no joke it’s not easy). But I’m sorry this just isn’t an acceptable product. If I turned in this kind of work to a client and said “Sorry, COVID and all” I’d be fired. Let’s not even get into the glitches either.

    Like any player who just got a big payday, once EA secured another 5 years of exclusivity it just stopped trying. So now I’ll finally vote with my wallet. I’m not mad, just disappointed.    … Expand
  87. Gamer44
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    Once again EA can't do a proper nfl game every year the game is the same apart from the updated roster.its time for the NFL to drop EA and look for another developer to take madden forward. EA is killing Madden
  88. Dr-Muhannad
    Sep 3, 2020
    0
    Low effort and buggy for a full price release from a big publisher.
    Disappointing but this is EA by definition.
  89. ed809
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    EA has been milking this cow for so long now, and NFL simply doesn't care about the fans. Monopoly it's not good for the consumer to receive innovation and improvements
  90. EvilMrJingles
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    A poor excuse for a game, recycled animations and assets, no significant gameplay additions, each iteration seems to have less and less features, absolutely zero polish (did they even play tested this thing?!?) and micro transactions galore on top of that?
    Thanks but no thanks.
  91. EverydayIDecay
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    There are still Madden NFL 20 banners in this game and contains a extreme amount of glitches! Almost unplayable. Also players are not even unique to who they are. There are barely any tattoos in the games and players don't limp when hurt. Wasted money. How is there positive critic reviews? Not deserving of there titles!
  92. Kilmeister
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    CTRL-C, CTRL-V, That'll be $60 for the base game. Oh hey, review has to be 75 characters long... So now I've officially put in more effort than EA.
  93. cubsfan4life
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    Please give up your exclusive license you have no interest in making the game good anymore. The laziness is evident when you find past logos in this game. The only thing greedy ea is interested in making is the gambling portion of this game good. Every year we lose features a game like 2k5 still has more features than this game shameful
  94. rAMZA
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    There is a simple solution to make this game better don´t buy games from EA, if you don´t buy they notice and have to make better games. it is your own fault.
  95. y2lamanaki
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game has become an entire abomination and should be discontinued. STOP BUYING!
  96. ManOfChap
    Sep 12, 2020
    0
    Game is trash. All EA cares about is microtransactions. No longer is the focus on Franchise Mode, all they care about is Greed & Ulitmate Team is nothing but Greed, pay to win BS. Thrown in a garbage story mode that offers a trash story & nothing new. EA has killed this franchise & NFL needs to make a change.
  97. The_Man_With_No
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Minus the minor changes (which we are all sued to by now), this iteration of Madden NFL is just garbage, it's broken despite them literally only updating the roster. The graphics look the same and it plays similarly to older Madden games minus the fact that it never F***ing works. NFL, please drop EA, we're definitely not going to have a full season this year so I was counting on this toMinus the minor changes (which we are all sued to by now), this iteration of Madden NFL is just garbage, it's broken despite them literally only updating the roster. The graphics look the same and it plays similarly to older Madden games minus the fact that it never F***ing works. NFL, please drop EA, we're definitely not going to have a full season this year so I was counting on this to not be trash, now I'm just left with a trash game that barely runs.… Expand
  98. Goo4you
    Sep 14, 2020
    0
    I don't play Madden. I didn't even grade this game, yet for some reason, Metacritic said I gave it a 9? I think I looked at the user reviews a bit about a week ago. I'm only writing this because it won't let me change my score from a 9 (or just remove any score from the totals). I didn't grade this, but I'm gonna give it a 0 because this is some shady crap coming from Metacritic and/or EA.
  99. mozzie71
    Sep 2, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A complete rehash of previous version but with way more bugs... Sideline players spilling onto the field... Generic white uniforms in cut scenes because the actual uniforms only rendered on one person. Players going through each other like Casper the ghost.… Expand
  100. titus619
    Sep 11, 2020
    0
    Same cash grab trash. My money MATTERS. Still playing NFL2K5. Recycled garbage every year.
Page:

Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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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