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. Jaspmag
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    No changes. TRASH Franchise mode. Same monetary pay to win scheme in MUT. Thanks EA!
  2. Cmcissuchagoatt
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s just a terrible “simulation Football game” they’ve had things before and just took them away for no reason. They ruined the game mode that brought the game together they only care about the money too.
  3. Charliegip
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been going down hill for nearly a decade. This game is just one in a long line of utter failures by EA games to turn out a product that even meets the bare minimum of industry standards. Madden 21 is a joke and EA deserves to lose their stranglehold on the NFL simulation game market because of, not only this game, but every game since Madden 10. All EA games does is churn outMadden has been going down hill for nearly a decade. This game is just one in a long line of utter failures by EA games to turn out a product that even meets the bare minimum of industry standards. Madden 21 is a joke and EA deserves to lose their stranglehold on the NFL simulation game market because of, not only this game, but every game since Madden 10. All EA games does is churn out the same game every year with an updated roster and expects fans to pay $60 at release. It’s time we demand better.… Expand
  4. Mexpaintball
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Lazy recycled trash year in and year out. Will not be buying another EA Madden game for as long as I live.
  5. Isaiah9818
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is what happens when a one company has no competition. There are no excuses for the lack of care for their franchise mode year after year. MUT is pay to win and its all they care about EA is pathetic and the NFL needs to stop this.
  6. camb52
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Worst game I’ve ever played. Not even talking abt sports games, worst game ever. The face of the franchise mode is the most cringey, unrealistic story I’ve ever had to play through. The game is a simulation game but doesn’t even represent simulation football. All EA does is attempt to make the rest of the game so bad that the consumer has no other choice but to resort to their new “The Yard” mode, and MUT. Both these modes are only made to profit off kids and suck them dry of their mom and dads credit card. Not to mention the gameplay. The gameplay is extremely buggy, and looks like they didn’t even try.… Expand
  7. Coutsiii
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Complete garbage! Franchise did not change, the gameplay is just horrible. You can’t user on defense and you can just run and win! The bug are still there and you can still kick to the fullbacks! They keep making there game worse. Give the keys to 2k
  8. RustinCohleTD
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden has been lacking new features and general innovation for years. This year the only real improvements were the addition of "The Yard" and slight changes in gameplay. Apart from that the game is the same as Madden NFL 20. In some modes like franchise there has been zero changes, although these modes are nowhere near to be solid and lack fundamentaly in deepness. Also the game isMadden has been lacking new features and general innovation for years. This year the only real improvements were the addition of "The Yard" and slight changes in gameplay. Apart from that the game is the same as Madden NFL 20. In some modes like franchise there has been zero changes, although these modes are nowhere near to be solid and lack fundamentaly in deepness. Also the game is extremely buggy and the servers seem worse than ever before.… Expand
  9. Jfficial
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s ridiculous that EA can get away with releasing the same game with a different color scheme. This needs to end!!! NFL drop your exclusive deal with EA!!!
  10. Indiecritic96
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Its the same game they've been rereleasing for the past decade. There needs to be a new Dev
  11. Dancool
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLdropEA what an unplayable heep of junk! Wish I could get a refund! It’s normally just a roster update with minor improvements. This year they made the AI worse!
  12. MeTonguetied
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA once again shows how much they give about madden and developing it just like how the lions won as many games in their 2008 0-16 season. EA is milking the **** out of madden with packs and only focuses on that aspect, it’s insanity that they are allowed to copy madden 21 change up the scoreboard and slap madden 21 on a game that’s been the same since madden 18 just different skins
  13. Gearhead711
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    EA continues to get lazy with every aspect of madden beyond MUT. Engine is bad, graphics are bad, commentary is re used and they haven’t even updated some basic things like calling players rookies who are 2nd year players. I could sit here all day about the issues with this game. Second year in a row I won’t get madden after my EA access 10 hours. Save your money
  14. Tiredofmadden
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    Look at this BS! Now there bribing us with free games. This game simply does not deserve the LISCENCE it’s that simple. They got greedy because they did not have anything to worry about an absolutely no competition back when 2k was out they actually made good games but ever since they took the exclusive rights they’ve been making the same game only with a roster update. Cmon guys don’tLook at this BS! Now there bribing us with free games. This game simply does not deserve the LISCENCE it’s that simple. They got greedy because they did not have anything to worry about an absolutely no competition back when 2k was out they actually made good games but ever since they took the exclusive rights they’ve been making the same game only with a roster update. Cmon guys don’t fall for this. This can’t be it keep it trending. One day I WILL have a good football game #NFLDropEA #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  15. Machinegunrob
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Trash if you want to have fun and spend less than 60 dollars go buy last gen console and nfl 2k5… Expand
  16. Wewinners890
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    This is horrible! It’s been the same game since madden 15 with a few updates. It’s not a simulation at all! Then they add these non simulation games like superstar k.o, MUT, The Yard. And this is all they work on!! But they barely work on the mode that is ACTUALLY SIMULATION OF THE NFL, FRANCHISE MODE. I’m simply just tired every year I really do hope for a new good football game but EAThis is horrible! It’s been the same game since madden 15 with a few updates. It’s not a simulation at all! Then they add these non simulation games like superstar k.o, MUT, The Yard. And this is all they work on!! But they barely work on the mode that is ACTUALLY SIMULATION OF THE NFL, FRANCHISE MODE. I’m simply just tired every year I really do hope for a new good football game but EA fails to give a good product. It’s not only madden players complaining! Even when I go to sims you have sims
    players complaining about how old games are better than sims 4 because EA makes everything dlc. You got. FIFA players complaining because it’s the same game every year as well. The only actual good game you guys have is nhl and ufc!! #NFLDropEA #FixMaddenFranchise    … Expand
  17. mikebond007
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is one of those games fan boys of the game like myself will put down money for no matter what it is. EA in reality only had to do very little to make fans happy here, a few visual improvements here and there, fix what's broken with last years game, and voila an instant $60 (at least - other special versions go for more) from me and many others. They did not do any of those and IMadden 21 is one of those games fan boys of the game like myself will put down money for no matter what it is. EA in reality only had to do very little to make fans happy here, a few visual improvements here and there, fix what's broken with last years game, and voila an instant $60 (at least - other special versions go for more) from me and many others. They did not do any of those and I feel cheated.

    In two words, Madden 21 is: slow and unpolished.

    From when you first encounter the menus to the graphics in the MUT "items" to the on field graphics to the kick meter... everything just has a feeling of unfinished. EA had a low bar given how popular this game is and what we've accepted every year as an "update" to the franchise. Sadly, they didn't even try to aim for it, let alone anywhere near it. If madden is a must have for you, you'll buy it anyway, but if your one of those individuals who can live without it, this is a must pass.    … Expand
  18. Bensowa
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is getting worse every year, and this one is basically last years madden with a few more errors and some unfinished game modes. So bad.
  19. Maverick55
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    Same thing every year - will not be buying for the 4th strait year. I play the demo and am unimpressed. I go into the demo with high hopes just to play the same game it has been for years. Sad too as I’m a huge gamer and even bigger football fan.
  20. FlapJackz
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Every year it’s the same thing. EA refuses to make any improvements while developers working on the game continue to call those with any criticisms clowns etc. Terrible game and I’ll never buy a madden game again until they fix this broken, awful and despicable franchise.… Expand
  21. FrostWolf01
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Considering it’s the same game with a new paint job, yyeeeaahhh I’ll be definitely staying away from this game
  22. azzap
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Save your money, do not buy this trash.
    I've had every madden since 95 and I played 1 game on this and turned it off, same **** year after year, the graphics in face of the franchise look like ps2 graphics and the game play is just pure ****.
    Get rid of EA sports.
  23. Coach_Keat
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I thought I should get this game. (Mostly for the roster updates.) Instead I downloaded an updated roster to madden 18. I did a quick google to see that nothing has changed about the game. So I now own madden 21 and got it for free!!! Still too expensive in my opinion. I want my money back. lol… Expand
  24. westchuck1
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    I paid $60 for this? Feels like nothing more than updated roster, Franchise Mode is complete garbage, Face of the Franchise is also terrible!! And then there's the gameplay which constantly glitches out. I've missed more FG and XP because the kick meter freezes and then works again. Animations are nothing more than rehashed from last year. Commentary is literally the same as last year's.I paid $60 for this? Feels like nothing more than updated roster, Franchise Mode is complete garbage, Face of the Franchise is also terrible!! And then there's the gameplay which constantly glitches out. I've missed more FG and XP because the kick meter freezes and then works again. Animations are nothing more than rehashed from last year. Commentary is literally the same as last year's. What the hell does EA do with a years development time? Bring back 2K please!… Expand
  25. Bigdogbignuts
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Games trash. Player movement feels weird, open field tackling still doesn’t work, the user pass rush system doesn’t really work and qbs can’t run like they used to.
  26. CRivera94
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just download a roster onto your madden 16 you're welcome its the same ****
  27. Csimco17
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The game won’t even start up just keeps on loading and loadinggggggggggggggg
  28. billybornwild
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    They've somehow found a way to make the game worse than it was last year.... crashing, glitching, video bugs, no improvements. Even if you love football it is really hard to want to play this game. If there was any way to hold EA accountable for such a terrible release, it should be done. This game is truly a pathetic release and it is so bad that I think the only way you could "fix" itThey've somehow found a way to make the game worse than it was last year.... crashing, glitching, video bugs, no improvements. Even if you love football it is really hard to want to play this game. If there was any way to hold EA accountable for such a terrible release, it should be done. This game is truly a pathetic release and it is so bad that I think the only way you could "fix" it would be to completely re-do it, from the ground up.… Expand
  29. gcp93
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolute joke of a game. How is it even possible for them to be making essentially the SAME EXACT game for YEARS, and still not figure out how to fix all of the countless bugs, glitches, and missing features? EA is such a joke. Based on their monopoly over NFL games and the recent contract extension they just signed, looks like I won't be buying any NFL games for quite a while. So sad andAbsolute joke of a game. How is it even possible for them to be making essentially the SAME EXACT game for YEARS, and still not figure out how to fix all of the countless bugs, glitches, and missing features? EA is such a joke. Based on their monopoly over NFL games and the recent contract extension they just signed, looks like I won't be buying any NFL games for quite a while. So sad and frustrating.… Expand
  30. dscurt
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same bugs as last year. Actual gameplay improved just a tad from last years game in my opinion but that’s not saying much. Just a micro transaction driven game. Face of the franchise story is boring. Decisions don’t really matter as the same things happen anyways. The only thing you have actual control over is whether to play qb/rb/wr. The college games I had Devonta Freeman as my rb? ISame bugs as last year. Actual gameplay improved just a tad from last years game in my opinion but that’s not saying much. Just a micro transaction driven game. Face of the franchise story is boring. Decisions don’t really matter as the same things happen anyways. The only thing you have actual control over is whether to play qb/rb/wr. The college games I had Devonta Freeman as my rb? I play for the Chicago Bears and I’m facing myself and the Chicago Bears in the NFC Championship game? Franchise is the same as it has been for years. Continuously every year nothing goes into it. All they care about is Ultimate team and this new game mode called “The Yard” which is another way to squeeze money out of people’s pockets to buy backplates and mouth guards to look cool I guess. Superstar KO is the exact same as last year. For people who want to play the only simulation mode in the NFL’s only simulation game are out of luck. You’re stuck with a patch update for a new franchise. The only way I see this game improving at all is if they have competition in the future or the NFL threatens to drop them.… Expand
  31. SeaSchnauzer
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game gets sloppier and sloppier every year. Franchise mode has been watered down, it used to have so much more. Even relocating franchises, something supposed to be exciting and new, is full of the same old stadiums you can build, a limited list of team names to start. Remember Madden 11/12 when you could be creative with moving a team in franchise mode?
  32. cp8
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    leave it to ea to splash a new coat of paint on madden 20 and then tear it apart; that’s madden 21
  33. ricechopsticks
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    game suck ea suck madden baddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd
  34. oshkoshthejosh
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Broken beyond belief with glitches and no updates to franchise mode, which is kind of important for the only licensed simulation NFL game. All the development went into arcadey modes that are very clearly not simulation modes and are littered with micro transactions, some of which make the modes pay-to-win. I don't think that EA got the message that it was 2K that was making arcadeyBroken beyond belief with glitches and no updates to franchise mode, which is kind of important for the only licensed simulation NFL game. All the development went into arcadey modes that are very clearly not simulation modes and are littered with micro transactions, some of which make the modes pay-to-win. I don't think that EA got the message that it was 2K that was making arcadey non-simulation football games and that EA was supposed to make the simulation game. Full stop EA has given up trying to make a quality product and it actively hurts the NFL's brand by having this be the sole product representing them. Someone else needs to be given an opportunity to make a realistic NFL simulation game. All the owners, the league office, and Roger Gooddell own this embarrassment of a product that is far and away the worst sports game attached to any major league worldwide. The league deserves better, the NFL deserves better, and fans deserve better.… Expand
  35. grahamh7
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is a carbon copy of Madden 20 and the years before it in a number of ways. The gameplay continues to be influenced by cheesy superstar and x-factor abilities. The fans continue to be astonishingly low resolution, all wearing a jersey that sports the number 0. Franchise mode was completely untouched, outside of background changes, font changes, and simple card design changes.Madden 21 is a carbon copy of Madden 20 and the years before it in a number of ways. The gameplay continues to be influenced by cheesy superstar and x-factor abilities. The fans continue to be astonishingly low resolution, all wearing a jersey that sports the number 0. Franchise mode was completely untouched, outside of background changes, font changes, and simple card design changes. Contracts continue to be wrong. Patrick Mahomes famously signed a 10 year extension to his contract, keeping him in Kansas City for the next 12 years. When I opened Madden on release day and entered Franchise mode, Mahomes had a 7 year contract. It's shocking that something so big and iconic in the NFL was implemented incorrectly, being a change that takes such a minimal amount of coding and time commitment. EA continues to ignore customers and create new game modes that the community doesn't ask for, this year coming in the form of "The Yard". New modes such as The Yard are developed with the goal of higher profits from micro transactions, rather than producing a quality game for consumers. If you are someone who has an extreme passion for the NFL that plays online connected franchise with friends and feels a serious need for new rosters with accurate face scans, buying the game wouldn't be a bad idea. If you are 99% of the Madden community, you should not feel as if you are missing out by not purchasing the game. I have seen updates to free games that are more productive than the release of Madden 21, and they didn't cost $60.… Expand
  36. MomentousMaster
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Filled with microtransactions and **** greed, you are basically paying premium prices for a cash grabbing cock created by bastards who think their customers are braindead husks ready to pay for any putrid **** that is thrown at them.
  37. DrStabb
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is terrible. It’s essentially Madden 20 2.0. No changes to franchise mode. Madden is money hungry by adding the yard and charging people for helmets and gear.
  38. ManCheetah7
    Sep 2, 2020
    0
    Same garbage every single year. The NFL needs to wake up and drop EAs exclusive rights. #NFLdropEA
  39. PandaMan456
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The gameplay is terrible. The franchise is terrible. Face of the franchise is cringe. It all sucks
  40. DUpton
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Worst game ever, same thing year in and year out. NFL NEEDS TO DROP EA! I will never buy another madden again.
  41. maddensuks
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    What do you get when you combine lazy, no talent developers, America's worst video gaming company and a professional sports league that doesn't give one wet **** about their reputation?

    MADDEN 21 AKA the worst sports video game of all time. Good job Devs.
  42. Havic
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    After years of playing CMF and seeing its decline i just wanted to know......can MUT replace my needs and the answer is....no. The gameplay and scripting is as bad as in CMF even though ‘user’ skill should be rewarding. This game needs an overhaul and if EA is up to the task...i still would give them a chance but they really should take action..now...
  43. Loganjjones
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The exact terrible game as last year. EA is a trash company who continues to tarnish the NFL & their customer bases support. I really hope the NFL will let 2K make a product worth buying. I recommend nobody buy this game.
  44. Drewcannon
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same game as the past 50 years, terrible movement, mediocre graphics, basically all reused animations and some how even more glitchy
  45. Ihateea61
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Literally can’t tell the difference from madden 20 and madden 21 fix your goddamn game to there are so many glitches
  46. Eldavo1995
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I purchased this game because I saw that they were going to try and "listen to the players" about everything we have been complaining about for years. I am a franchise fan. I bought the game for that specific mode expecting the revamped version they promised. Nothing really changed. It still is the same boring franchise mode that lacks any true depth in it. If I could get my money back, II purchased this game because I saw that they were going to try and "listen to the players" about everything we have been complaining about for years. I am a franchise fan. I bought the game for that specific mode expecting the revamped version they promised. Nothing really changed. It still is the same boring franchise mode that lacks any true depth in it. If I could get my money back, I would. I hope that EA or the NFL decides to actually change this whole game. It's just not worth it.… Expand
  47. newtron54
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Garbage upon garbage upon garbage. Year after year it does not change. They have no competition and therefore no reason to not push out a 60 dollar roster update. Save yourself the money and buy something else... like your neighbors garbage or used socks.
  48. KoolaidJam
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same as before. But we all knew that. I didn’t buy the game I just wanted to give it a low rating like everyone lol.
  49. Shotani
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely horrible game. Madden 21 franchise mode is EXACTLY the same as last year's mode. No. I'm not kidding. It's ACTUALLY the same. Same animations of coaches, same horrific and unrealistic trade system, same development, same practices, and even the same EXACT text dialogue from your players. Ultimate team is exactly the same as well! The yard is fun but gets very boring very fast.Absolutely horrible game. Madden 21 franchise mode is EXACTLY the same as last year's mode. No. I'm not kidding. It's ACTUALLY the same. Same animations of coaches, same horrific and unrealistic trade system, same development, same practices, and even the same EXACT text dialogue from your players. Ultimate team is exactly the same as well! The yard is fun but gets very boring very fast. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. #NFLDropEA… Expand
  50. matiastorna
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    seriously ea is the laziest game company not doing **** to game once again . #NFLDROPEA
  51. Jturn
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It is so bad and buggy. Even the menu sucks. I essentially paid $58.99 for a roster update and a game mode ill never play (The Yard). This game would be bad if it was launched as a beta.
  52. MichaelIronside
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game had been the same, overpriced piece of **** good for nothing title for the last 10 years. **** EA, **** Clint Ogledick, hope that game studio burns to the ground with everyone still in it.
  53. Cole03
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    They have changed nothing it's copy and paste. They have become lazy and the NFL needs to allow 2K to also make the game.
  54. HolyGrail
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Trash Game. Very Clunky Feeling. Franchise Mode still hasn’t been revived and the yard is overrated. The game is purely focused on ultimate team and micro transactions.… Expand
  55. Racist_Panda
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    Cowabunga... **** PIECE OF **** This game is diarrhea coming out of my dick! This game is as appealing as a **** ooze-infested dirty **** sewer rat **** I've had more fun playing with dog turds! Shredder's my ass and Splinter's my balls, this game is an inside-out **** regurgitated putrid anal fecal matter! I'd rather **** yank all the hairs out of my scrotum! I'd rather drink diarrheaCowabunga... **** PIECE OF **** This game is diarrhea coming out of my dick! This game is as appealing as a **** ooze-infested dirty **** sewer rat **** I've had more fun playing with dog turds! Shredder's my ass and Splinter's my balls, this game is an inside-out **** regurgitated putrid anal fecal matter! I'd rather **** yank all the hairs out of my scrotum! I'd rather drink diarrhea vomited out of a buffalo's anus! It sucking **** it **** sucks, IT **** BLOWS, IT'S A PIECE OF **** and I don't like it.… Expand
  56. Chalanius
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLDropEA The Madden franchise continues to get worse and worse with uncaring developers, and a pay-to-win business model. Without any competition there is no innovation, leading to terrible Madden football games for over a decade. #NFLDropEA
  57. RTStewa
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolute trash. Same thing every year smh. Please drop EA because we are sick and tired of the $60 roster update that we get every year with this waste of money.
  58. tnelson1978
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the first Madden game in my entire life that I past on and didn't buy. I wanted to do this for the past few years but when EA is the only company allowed to make NFL simulation football games it forces you into buying it for a roster update. Not anymore though. If franchise mode doesn't get updated this year I'll wait for next year. In the meantime though I'll pay maxfootball 2020This is the first Madden game in my entire life that I past on and didn't buy. I wanted to do this for the past few years but when EA is the only company allowed to make NFL simulation football games it forces you into buying it for a roster update. Not anymore though. If franchise mode doesn't get updated this year I'll wait for next year. In the meantime though I'll pay maxfootball 2020 when it's released and NFL 2K5 to hold me over. It's amazing how 2K5 is still relevant after 15 years. I can go on forever about this and that, but we've only been doing that for years. I've had enough. #NFLdropEA; #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  59. Jonathanronatha
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It sucks and here's filler for the 75 character limit you don't have to read it but still
  60. ihatemadden21
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21    … Expand
  61. Oval91
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same trash game. Franchise mode was much better in 2004... Do not waste your money on this game.
  62. cmarker
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Every single year is just a carbon copy of the previous installment of the game, plus some new uniforms, players and rosters, and some useless stuff. NFL drop EA!
  63. psal09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    What really makes me sad are all the kids growing up now who don't understand what everyone is so angry about. The kids who have never gotten to experience a good NFL game that features their favorite players and teams. They've had nothing but the same tired Madden experience but don't know enough to think that it could be better.

    The gameplay needs to be rebuilt from the ground up. EA    What really makes me sad are all the kids growing up now who don't understand what everyone is so angry about. The kids who have never gotten to experience a good NFL game that features their favorite players and teams. They've had nothing but the same tired Madden experience but don't know enough to think that it could be better.

    The gameplay needs to be rebuilt from the ground up. EA is making literally billions of dollars off this game every year they can afford to hire developers who would actually be able to achieve this. The frostbite engine is not build for football simulation and is out-preformed by game engines from 15 years ago. The only people happy with this gameplay are people who never played older football games or the "pro" players who just cheese the flaws in the game until it doesn't even resemble football anymore.

    No attention has been paid to making the franchise mode actually fun to play or a realistic sim. This has been completely broken since at least Madden 13. I've seen games played with dice and look-up tables that had more realism. MUT is a complete waste of time and/or money. The yard might be fun if it wasn't just another excuse to push micro-transactions.

    EA is such a shady, horrible company. Do they have no pride at all in the product they put their name on? Do they have no moral qualms about pushing gambling and micro-transactions on children? No wonder they can't get any developers with actual talent to come work for them and the ones that do try to get out of there as soon as they can.    … Expand
  64. Tgritz09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Can't believe they can't even update the super bowl # from 54 to 55...literally no effort made for franchise and they are hoping the yard and face of the franchise can one day merge and somehow get rid of "classic franchise"...the execs at EA need to be held accountable especially since they continue to ask for money but yet this is your product...
  65. aawe0661
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Thinking about buying this game? Don’t. Do you own most or all of the Madden games like a majority of players? Then you already have 5+ versions of this game. As a replacement, withdrawal $64 and take it to your fireplace and light it on fire. Watch as the ash from your money falls into the fire with real physics. Speak aloud and comment on what you’re seeing as it’ll be more accurate.
  66. Ausbom
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s the same game as the last 5 maddens, just repackaged and new color scheme. Week one of release and there’s no content, glitches and bugs that should not be there. The game is broken. EA has gotten lazy with adding anything unique to the game. Franchise is forgotten, ultimate team is garbage, and the players faces aren’t even realistic. No competition is allowing EA to do the absoluteIt’s the same game as the last 5 maddens, just repackaged and new color scheme. Week one of release and there’s no content, glitches and bugs that should not be there. The game is broken. EA has gotten lazy with adding anything unique to the game. Franchise is forgotten, ultimate team is garbage, and the players faces aren’t even realistic. No competition is allowing EA to do the absolute minimum and scam people out of their hard earned money.… Expand
  67. Solo_It
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I'll say it. I miss the raw feel of Madden 08
  68. patrick02985
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is a sad terrible, and disappointing excuse for a football video game coming from the worst sports video game company.
  69. Drewseph1354
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is a disgrace. ..how much money have you scammed out of your loyal followers pockets
  70. BEARS-NFC-CHAMP
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. How is this even possible? EA SPORTS are committing theft, a crime by literally putting out the same repetitive game every year. I truly wish 2K sports would be able to make a football game because they would give the consumers a game worth buying. EA is only focused on money, they don’t care about the game of football. I will not be buying any more madden games moving forward, I wish we could sue EA for being a bunch of thief’s. I’m sorry for being so upset, it’s just a roster update, cash grab by EA and I’m simply sick of it!… Expand
  71. Victor186
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is trash. I don’t recommend buying this game. Please save your money.
  72. DanJohns
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the WORST game I have ever played in my entire life. I have been playing since Madden 13 so sadly I have never played a good madden game. But the game has been significantly getting worse gameplay-wise every single year. I have gone back and played NFL 2K5 and even without nostalgia, It is 100x the better game. I have been playing for over 8 years and I still haven't seen aThis is the WORST game I have ever played in my entire life. I have been playing since Madden 13 so sadly I have never played a good madden game. But the game has been significantly getting worse gameplay-wise every single year. I have gone back and played NFL 2K5 and even without nostalgia, It is 100x the better game. I have been playing for over 8 years and I still haven't seen a coaching tree in franchise. I don't understand why can't they just make the game like NCAA Football 14 which is still the best sports game I have played to date. I can't believe Madden 21 is made by the same company that made that game. If EA wants to make a terrible arcade gambling game for 5-year-olds than don't use up the exclusive sim NFL license. Why not just drop franchise mode and just have MUT and get an exclusive NFL arcade license. The yard is a Walmart version of NBA2K's park which I love. I just don't understand why EA couldn't just add one feature to franchise mode every year instead of taking away one feature of franchise mode each year. The face of the franchise mode is maybe the most cringe storyline I have ever seen. It's like the developers at EA saw how good 2K's mycareer is and said let's see how we can ruin this. The next thing is that I don't understand how people expect the gameplay to be realistic when the engine that Madden runs on isn't even made for a football game. The frostbite engine was made by EA in 2008 for first-person shooters. It was used in a lot of the Battlefield games. In 2017 EA starting acting like this engine was some new technology that was going to fix gameplay in Madden 18. They literally put it on the back of the box. This is why the gameplay in a football game made 16 years ago is better than this. The receivers in 2K5 could actually run a fade to the back of the endzone. The worst thing is as the game get's worse the price goes up. For me to even think about buying this game next year it Franchise mode needs to have a Coaching Carousel with Coaching skill trees, advanced scouting with descriptions for each player, advanced stat-tracking with year to year stats, more accurate simulation, more detailed and customizable relocation options, player morale where they could demand a contract extension or a trade, training camp, position battles, more accurate trade logic, non-op X-Factors, NFL rule changes (like in NBA2K), and modernize outside linebacker and defensive end specifications,. They also would have to fix the gameplay by making an engine specifically for football games. Lastly, make the yard exactly like the park in 2k and make it 3v3 and all online players (not CPU) instead of 6v6. The sad thing about all of this is that the people at EA won't even care about this awful user score because they are too busy making racks off five-year-olds using their mom's credit cards. In response to a low user score EA sports employee, Clint Oldenburg said " well 2 is better than 1". This is why I have no hope for EA to make a good football game ever again. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME! Its a waste of a hard-earned $60. That's all I have to say… Expand
  73. Slappist
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I skip every other madden whenever I buy them to actually feel like there’s a difference. But going from madden 19 franchise mode to madden 21 franchise mode there’s literally been only one change and it was a step backwards.. just disappointed.… Expand
  74. randy621
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Long time Madden fan. Grew up with the game. Loved old game modes like superstar mode. Wasn't the most polished, but it had at least some heart. There is no heart anymore. It is clear whichever department at EA that is responsible for putting out these abhorrent and disrespectful products do not care at all. The only way they will ever listen is if we, as the fans, do not reward theirLong time Madden fan. Grew up with the game. Loved old game modes like superstar mode. Wasn't the most polished, but it had at least some heart. There is no heart anymore. It is clear whichever department at EA that is responsible for putting out these abhorrent and disrespectful products do not care at all. The only way they will ever listen is if we, as the fans, do not reward their greedy and selfish behavior. Do not but this game if you love football.… Expand
  75. Bossninja26
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The game is just horrible no additions to franchise buggy etc. Also has been the same game for 5 years EA needs to be dropped don’t buy this year don’t buy the next until there’s a change.
  76. NovaPrototype
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same game year in and year out just copy and paste nba 2k with NFL players and rules!!! It would be 100 times better!!! Of course it’s not that easy but Jesus Christ man this entire console generation has not just been bad but has been downright terrible!!!! Plz NFL #NFLdropEA #fixmaddenfranchise we need competition so fans of your product can get something that resembles an NFL franchiseSame game year in and year out just copy and paste nba 2k with NFL players and rules!!! It would be 100 times better!!! Of course it’s not that easy but Jesus Christ man this entire console generation has not just been bad but has been downright terrible!!!! Plz NFL #NFLdropEA #fixmaddenfranchise we need competition so fans of your product can get something that resembles an NFL franchise mode!!! Player NEGOTIATION, CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS for COACHES assistant coaches, GMs, player character actually meaning something, a superstar mode WORTH A DAMN, plz for the love of GOD!!!!!… Expand
  77. Lurkthelegion
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What can I say that has not been said, there are countless glitches the gameplay is bad and franchise has no depth unlike many games before. I had a game where Lamar Jackson was playing DE and managed to hit stick fumble Derrick Henry. The worst part is that this is marketed as a simulation football game. It is F$&@ing Bs… Expand
  78. Natedogg
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Haven’t bought and enjoyed a single madden since Madden 10. Micro transactions and glitches simulator is what you’re paying for this year. We all love 2k but even they’re starting to fall into the pit of what madden is now. Drop the contract if you want any support in this market.
  79. chilledcheeto05
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The game is decent if you are looking for an arcade fantasy style game. But it is the only simulation NFL game and it goes farther from simulation each year. The gameplay favors big animations over general physics and smooth motion. The most blatant problem is neglecting franchise mode, which is the core of a simulation game. The NFL needs to let another company get a chance at aThe game is decent if you are looking for an arcade fantasy style game. But it is the only simulation NFL game and it goes farther from simulation each year. The gameplay favors big animations over general physics and smooth motion. The most blatant problem is neglecting franchise mode, which is the core of a simulation game. The NFL needs to let another company get a chance at a simulation football game, this is not it.… Expand
  80. Bigman69
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The only way to stop **** scam Sports titles from seeing the light of day is to NOT BUY them. #NFLdropEA
  81. melvinandrew
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Steer clear of this game, several veterans free agents are missing (I.e. Clowney) due to player’s rights agreements, the game is incredibly glitchy and uninspired. Terrible job by EA as has been the case for several years now.
  82. CalebStone
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It sucks and it’s ass we are not review bombing the should stop making games and give 2k the simulation license and give EA non simulation… Expand
  83. Krazian09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Buddy got it before I had a chance to purchase it. Went and checked it out and it’s literally madden19/20 nothing is different literally nothing. Don’t even waste your money.… Expand
  84. Chiefkeith92
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA is lazy af. NFL 2k5 was better and more innovative than this yrah #FixFranchiceMode
  85. Venomnous
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    They are lazy. A monopoly sitting on their butt. Even in their most popular game mode they do not fix a game mode breaking glitch a week after “official launch” In squads if you try to throw a pass in the gun, no play action it will kick you off qb and cause havoc on offense for you as your teammate takes over unaware of what’s happening. To top that off the ultimate team mode content isThey are lazy. A monopoly sitting on their butt. Even in their most popular game mode they do not fix a game mode breaking glitch a week after “official launch” In squads if you try to throw a pass in the gun, no play action it will kick you off qb and cause havoc on offense for you as your teammate takes over unaware of what’s happening. To top that off the ultimate team mode content is diminishing each year. They take out competitive master and are slow with promos. Which is extremely disappointing because there was such a lack of content at the end of the year for madden 20. The same thing will probably happen again if not sooner. This is to not even mention franchise mode which is a copy and paste each year. #NflDropEA… Expand
  86. Bigloevlyj
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Makes you angrier the more you play. Stop with the terrible animations. Fix franchise mode!
  87. benlee540
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is legit TRASH! Copy and Paste. EA continues to ignore all the issues, DO NOT BUY!
  88. CrossOv3R
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    If you love Franchise Mode you are better off porting a roster for Madden 20 and playing that this cycle. Not a single new feature this year. The jokes are always, “it’s the same game every year nothing changes.” Well, this year Madden 21 is literally a copy and paste job. The paper is still warm from the photocopier.
  89. LittleKiwi38
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA continues to care more about money than their consumers. Their greed is catching up to them. This game is atrocious and has zero changes from madden 20 besides the yard which also sucks. BOYCOTT EA
  90. Drewr7208
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    **** Same game different year. We don’t want new game modes that suck. Update the franchise mode. It’s god awful, I feel like Madden11 had a better franchise mode.
  91. Mvpfinfan
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Like many others, I’ve been waiting longer than I can remember for EA to wake up and give a flying turd about this game. This year they set a whole new benchmark for how truly unprofessional and lackadaisical EA is. Do not waste your money I beg you, it will only encourage more of this dastardly behavior. Go buy a used decade old version, I promise you will be happier with the outcome.Like many others, I’ve been waiting longer than I can remember for EA to wake up and give a flying turd about this game. This year they set a whole new benchmark for how truly unprofessional and lackadaisical EA is. Do not waste your money I beg you, it will only encourage more of this dastardly behavior. Go buy a used decade old version, I promise you will be happier with the outcome. Forget missing fit and polish, this game is missing it’s entire purpose for existing in the first place. NFL, your loving audience begs you. Fire EA.… Expand
  92. ToasterStroodle
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s just copied and pasted with worse glitches. It definitely isn’t worth buying.
  93. BoboSupreme
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It is almost the same exact game as madden 20. The only difference I see is that stretch run plays only get you a 20+ yard run about 33% of the time instead of 80% of the time. Nobody asked for more arcade modes. The only reason they added them is to point users to their new store.
  94. LTUNNZZ
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the worst nfl game EA ever made please stop this Company from making football game Terrible
  95. Calvin21
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I want to move a player to the right... he plants, backs up, spins and then runs left instead. I keep buying it every year and every year I get more disappointed.
  96. ChrisTatC
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Well at least I still have NFL 2k5, Madden 04&06 and NCAA 06 & 14 to get my football fix. Wish I. 2020 I wouldn't have to go back a 15 years for decent NFL game and 7 years for football in general
  97. RoRo_99
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    Ea fails us yet again. Game is lacking the innovation the consumer base desires. As a football fan I find it difficult to purchase madden despite me only buying every 3 years to make up for lack of innovation.
  98. Nameonacloud
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    If you want the same thing as the past 4 years go ahead and spend your money.
  99. Pdbrowne1992
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I really wasted money yet agen on madden, every year I get suckered in, especially by one of my friends who should be a salesman for madden, every year it’s “look at the graphics!” And everything else in this game is neglected, I really didn’t have the 57 to spend on it and that was cheaper because of the EA Access I should have stopped at the trial but seeing all my friends on it I had toI really wasted money yet agen on madden, every year I get suckered in, especially by one of my friends who should be a salesman for madden, every year it’s “look at the graphics!” And everything else in this game is neglected, I really didn’t have the 57 to spend on it and that was cheaper because of the EA Access I should have stopped at the trial but seeing all my friends on it I had to get the trash … Expand
  100. Zgiant
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So glitchy I can’t even play it. Very disappointing. Never going to get another madden game… Expand
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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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