Madden NFL 21

 Xbox One
User Score
0.5

Overwhelming dislike- based on 1047 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 1047
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 1047
  3. Negative: 1,006 out of 1047
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  1. JackRH
    Aug 30, 2020
    4
    The game has been the same for years now and as a football fan and a fan of sports games it sucks how similar the games are all the time. It really shows how little EA puts into it but they still make millions from updating rosters in Madden and NBA 2K but Madden especially. The NFL shouldn't drop EA yet because I'd rather have something then nothing but they should make EA actually work.The game has been the same for years now and as a football fan and a fan of sports games it sucks how similar the games are all the time. It really shows how little EA puts into it but they still make millions from updating rosters in Madden and NBA 2K but Madden especially. The NFL shouldn't drop EA yet because I'd rather have something then nothing but they should make EA actually work. I really hope the game is better next year and if it isn't I'm not wasting my money on it .… Expand
  2. Rhoads81
    Aug 30, 2020
    4
    It’s a shame this game was released in its current state. I have never seen a game this buggy before, period. The showstopper bugs are obvious and everywhere, yet they rushed it out instead of delaying the game to fix these egregious defects. Entire teams disappearing from the field. Crashes left and right. Just play training mode or the yard for 10 mins and you will run into major obviousIt’s a shame this game was released in its current state. I have never seen a game this buggy before, period. The showstopper bugs are obvious and everywhere, yet they rushed it out instead of delaying the game to fix these egregious defects. Entire teams disappearing from the field. Crashes left and right. Just play training mode or the yard for 10 mins and you will run into major obvious bugs that detract from the experience. Shame on EA’s management!!! I feel sorry for the team working on this because you know they wouldn’t have wanted to release it like this.… Expand
  3. salamalama
    Sep 1, 2020
    4
    Game is literally a copy and paste of every single previous Madden. Videos of glitches and examples of old banners being used. My issue is the game is so choppy. It's like I'm playing on a wireless connection with someone from Africa using a dial up internet connection when I'm just playing local play. The game is garbage and not even sure how it mage it passed Q&A.
  4. eastjacket
    Sep 18, 2020
    4
    The positive guy at the top has gotta be trolling lmao. But it’s not quite as bad as others say it is. It’s a red rating, to be sure, but once you learn the mechanics (which, admittedly, make no sense, but I still have fun now I’ve learned them) it’s playable. That said, I only play online. It would take a multiple digit number of dollars to get me to play against the computer, it isThe positive guy at the top has gotta be trolling lmao. But it’s not quite as bad as others say it is. It’s a red rating, to be sure, but once you learn the mechanics (which, admittedly, make no sense, but I still have fun now I’ve learned them) it’s playable. That said, I only play online. It would take a multiple digit number of dollars to get me to play against the computer, it is incredibly boring. I did a solo ultimate draft to level up a little and all I had to do was play one handed and call the same play every time while scrolling on my phone, and when I did pay attention, I wanted to kill myself it was so boring. I could go on, but those are the main points I wanted to make… Expand
  5. Bluceipher
    Aug 30, 2020
    3
    It's Madden you can't expect much same thing every year but what really made me mad is I can't use my last name Hurst in story mode because it said it is a profanity and EA wouldn't tell me why.
  6. zeroice007
    Oct 2, 2020
    3
    I am not going to sugarcoat this like i did last year. I didn't think Madden could get worse. They didn't touch Franchise but so called let out a map for next year and possible fixes this year and that's only because the community as a whole is fed up but after this year that resentment will grow because the bad gameplay and errors and glitches have spread across the whole game for theI am not going to sugarcoat this like i did last year. I didn't think Madden could get worse. They didn't touch Franchise but so called let out a map for next year and possible fixes this year and that's only because the community as a whole is fed up but after this year that resentment will grow because the bad gameplay and errors and glitches have spread across the whole game for the core is terribly bad. The game was not even fixed from common errors from its predecessor. Its just a bad game, attention to detail is horrible and that ace of the Franchise mode is horrible its story is pathetic to say the least. I am not even going to explain this debacle look it up on you tube there are many videos on this. Even if somehow you do try this mode good luck it might not even load or work correctly anyway ton of glitches etc. MUT isn't touched at all except for the color and design of the cards lol. You couldn't even get what you purchased as promised at launch. They have patched it on day one but seriously. The Franchise is just pathetic nothing added, in fact they actually took some features out believe that or not. They have a new game mode that preys on microtransactions but you can atleast earn it thru game credits but alot wont they will just purchase the equipment for a price. Now on that mode Franchise has been asking or additional customization but they can do it only in the yard lol A true slap in the face to Franchise players. This game is just bad on alot of levels . Its not worth 60.00 let alone 99.00. In all my dreams i didnt think it could get worse. Its like they dont care. But 2K is coming and EA they are laughing at your game . You have a simulation license and dont use it. Why have a simulation product if you dont plan to use it. We have no simulation choice yet but that will change because this game is just pathetic. The core is broken and that effects each mode. Fix the core issues and you cant even do that. Even if you didn't add anything i would probably forgive you if you fixed the core issues and then laid out a map to next year. We have this year and your excuses are getting old and its a shame that a game 14 years old still has better core play and features than a current generation game of 2021 A 1.5 would be generous but im feeling generous so i give it a 1.because i dont believe its lower than a 2.0 I waited a few more days to see if i could edit this and make it a higher rating but it has gotten worse more bugs and glitches i couldn't believe it So i have to give it a one because no game deserves a true 0 while they are working on it lol. But it has to be rated 0 because EA seems to not even ask or assistance if their devs cant do what guys on pc can do in hours and that a fact. I scratch my head on who could give this a 10??? No way in the world you could rank this game that. 10 is perfection and there are no facts to justify that score lol. Even if i like it i couldn't give this any more than a 5. There are so many issues in this game and its not even upgraded in terms of overall features lol. I will edit this again when they make a patch to franchise and then that will be my final edit . Well its October and they have patched this thing so much granted it has a very long way to go but it has gotten better so i will adjust my rating . Waiting for the franchise updates in november and i will rate it again… Expand
  7. Sonicmafia420
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    While I like the gameplay changes and the game feels more realistic as you play it, the game still feels like an unfinished product. While madden 21 might be a good overall video game, it isnt a good football simulation game. Franchise mode hasn't been touched, which is unacceptable. Although I am glad that ea did make promises to improve the mode
  8. Flashaguiniga
    Aug 27, 2020
    3
    Pretty much same game as last year. As a franchise player I am deeply disappointed with literally no improvements to this game mode other than a different color scheme and the audacity to just label it as "classic franchise". That title alone makes it feel like they knew backlash was gonna come from that decision. I've been a MADDEN supporter since 96. I think this is the last year I buy it.
  9. Prophet_Priest
    Sep 3, 2020
    3
    As a longtime fan of the Madden Franchise, I have a would not recommend this title. For offline or franchise play, the game is notoriously abysmal, and both notable online mods include microtransactions the further inflate an already inflated annually-recurring price tag. Even the new Yard mode, generally acclaimed as a welcome and wuality addition, includes microtransactions.TheirAs a longtime fan of the Madden Franchise, I have a would not recommend this title. For offline or franchise play, the game is notoriously abysmal, and both notable online mods include microtransactions the further inflate an already inflated annually-recurring price tag. Even the new Yard mode, generally acclaimed as a welcome and wuality addition, includes microtransactions.Their necessity (being mostly cosmetic) is as irrelevent as their presence is blatantly greedy and detestable.

    However, my greatest disappointments are in the gameplay. I agree with the general sentiment that this year's changes are mostly good, but problems that have consistently frustrated persist. My personal biggest gripe is an unintelligble ball placement mechanic for passing. Ball trajectory is far too low, especially for medium or deep bullet passes, and ball placement is totally incosistent, making for far too many baffling and infuriating interceptions (particularly from underneath the route). A noticeable change occurred a few installments prior that lessened linebackers' ability to jump; while this helped reduce some ridiculous interceptions, it was merely a bandaid. Ball placement and trajectory are wrong and need badly amended. Compensating by adjusting defenses' abilities does not suffice. In addition, wide receivers generally remain useless in contested throw situations, and putting the ball in the air is overall unsatisfying. It honestly felt better to play last year.

    These issues, taken together with the lazy improvements the game has seen from year to year, make clear that EA Sports is more concerned with cultivating a cash cow than developing a rewarding user experience.    … Expand
  10. TankerFury1812
    Sep 5, 2020
    3
    I first experienced Madden the Christmas of 95 and boy was I ecstatic! Controlling my New York Giants and taking them to the Super Bowl. 25 years later...That feeling of joy has yet to be reciprocated. We’ve all seen the YouTube reviews and trending hash tags but everyone’s experience is different. For someone who experienced a completely immersive and offline experience in olderI first experienced Madden the Christmas of 95 and boy was I ecstatic! Controlling my New York Giants and taking them to the Super Bowl. 25 years later...That feeling of joy has yet to be reciprocated. We’ve all seen the YouTube reviews and trending hash tags but everyone’s experience is different. For someone who experienced a completely immersive and offline experience in older platforms, I honestly expected more out of today’s generation of major companies like EA. Features that, I think, make a complete NFL Franchise experience, still haven’t been added (back). Game play mechanics masked by added coaching adjustments. Unrealistic, arcade like scenarios and animations that frustrate the everyday Franchise player. Features and options being added to game modes a majority of ya really don’t care about....except the fact they’ve been added, to game modes...that we don’t care about. The money you’d expect me to spend buying shorts for my created character in The Yard, I’m buying in real life. I’ve made the mistakes of buying packs on MUT after being burnt out grinding challenges and playing 99 OVR Teams in a pay to win environment. I buy the game because I enjoy the game of football. Because I enjoy getting together with the same 32 guys that try to ignore the fact that this game has been crumbling over the years but there’s no other way to experience simulation style football. EA execs are suffocating any chance for exceptional games to hit the market to allow the right experience model to hit the shelf. Madden 21 was EA’s standard money grab. Whether you’re a deep league player like myself or a first time Madden player, I would wait until November to purchase this game. That’s when we expect EA to release “new” features to Francine that should not have been removed in the first place. #FIXEA… Expand
  11. bradysknee
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    Mildly entertaining, bug-ridden and full of inconsistencies. The football gets knocked around like a volleyball. It's just not a good game.
  12. tomtom1315
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    I don’t even own a xbox but hey im just here for my daily madden hate. EA please give up your game is trash.
  13. xxxA3xxx
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    It’s the same game as last year, hopefully we see improvements on next gen but as I have it on PC i don’t expect that because PC would have the improvements already, only dope new mechanic is the ballcarriers reaching the ball out for the goal line, first now or pylons
  14. josda_
    Aug 26, 2020
    2
    Madden 21 is an uninspired copy-and-paste mess. Do yourself a favor and do not purchase this year's edition.

    To start, EA's shiny new game mode, Face of The Franchise, is written extremely poorly and often leaves the player confused and unsatisfied. Also, it is riddled with bugs. For example, in some games, the white field paint will not load. Next, In every play-through I've done, I    Madden 21 is an uninspired copy-and-paste mess. Do yourself a favor and do not purchase this year's edition.

    To start, EA's shiny new game mode, Face of The Franchise, is written extremely poorly and often leaves the player confused and unsatisfied. Also, it is riddled with bugs. For example, in some games, the white field paint will not load. Next, In every play-through I've done, I always get drafted by the Bears.

    Moving on to franchise, it's the same and has been copy-pasted from Madden 20 to Madden 21. This includes bugs like the "Hold A to Reorder" bug when scouting players. There are zero new features to be happy about, mostly because there are zero new features. Franchise mode's only hope is that EA is truthful and completes the checklist of items they said that they'd add to the mode in the next two years. With the company's track record, I'm not hopeful.

    Next, we have The Yard. This is EA's attempt to combat 2K's new licensed arcade football game which will release in 2021. Honestly, it's fun. The mode feels arcade-y and a little bit like NFL street. You can customize your own avatar and play together with your friends or on your own. It is a little buggy, but it is a game mode that can be built upon.

    One of Madden 21's only redeeming qualities is its game play, which is better than last year's version. One of the few things that EA has done right in the last few installments is improve the game play. It's fluid, fairly satisfying, and not as animation based as Madden 20.

    If you play Madden purely for the simulation franchise aspect, there is zero reason to purchase Madden 21. If you play it for the game play, wait for the game to go on sale. This is not a product worth 100, 80, or 60 dollars.    … Expand
  15. OzzJackdaniels
    Sep 4, 2020
    2
    The good- Gameplay has improved. It still has the same legacy issues as previous maddens. The yard looks like a fun mode. Of course micro transactions are involved. I haven’t been able to see if I can grind yet because the mode is riddled with bugs.

    The Bad - Franchise is the same as the past 5 maddens. If you are new to madden you might enjoy it. I’ve been playing madden since 96. The    The good- Gameplay has improved. It still has the same legacy issues as previous maddens. The yard looks like a fun mode. Of course micro transactions are involved. I haven’t been able to see if I can grind yet because the mode is riddled with bugs.

    The Bad - Franchise is the same as the past 5 maddens. If you are new to madden you might enjoy it. I’ve been playing madden since 96. The mode lacks any innovation. Half a season in and veteran madden players will get bored. Superstar KO and Face of the franchise are a waste of resources.

    The ugly. The main mode in madden is Ultimate team. The mode itself is fun. Team building,coming up with a scheme and team to play H2H can be enjoyable. The insane amount of microtransactions are horrible. If you want to build a team and compete get ready to spend. $100 a week will keep your team competitive. Maybe. It’s almost like EA ignored all others modes to drive traffic to ultimate team so the player base can spend away. And I would be wary of what streamers and “pros” have to say. They are more concerned with the money made from streaming and coin selling to form an honest opinion about this game.

    If you have never played madden before you might like madden 21.
    If you are looking for franchise mode with depth go buy NFL2k5 because it’s not happening this year. Again.
    And if you plan on playing MUT it’s going to cost you the same price as a next gen console to keep up. Or you can go no money spent and play for 40 hours a week. And after that you will have to buy an ebook from some hack that learned how to manipulate the CPU. EA will double down on the microtransactions by lowering odds on packs and making it impossible to build a team for free.

    Only the sight gameplay improvements make this game worth buying. And I mean worth getting on sale for a quarter of the price.    … Expand
  16. SteelConfidence
    Aug 27, 2020
    2
    I almost never review games but Madden 21 finally broke me. I primarily play franchise mode and I already knew coming in that no major changes were made to the mode despite promises from EA so I wasn’t surprised by same carbon copy mode we got. Just disappointed not even the scenario engine was updated or changed. However I took a chance on the game because I do enjoy career modes in gamesI almost never review games but Madden 21 finally broke me. I primarily play franchise mode and I already knew coming in that no major changes were made to the mode despite promises from EA so I wasn’t surprised by same carbon copy mode we got. Just disappointed not even the scenario engine was updated or changed. However I took a chance on the game because I do enjoy career modes in games and the yard looked like it would be a fun addition when me and some other franchise users weren’t doing our leagues. I’m it’s current state I can not recommend this game to anyone. The gameplay does feel better, controlling RB feel tighter and best it has in years but it’s so glitchy it’s unplayable. I’m career mode I went to select the Titans and they had the Viking logo for everything. The yard me and a friend couldn’t even finish a game without the servers crashing or game freezing. Finally caved and returned the game after I scored a TD, chose my celebration just to watch the CPU pick up the ball and return it the other way for a TD if their own. Which of course counted where mine didn’t. It’s not a 0 because it is playable but very little gameplay improvements, no change to franchise mode and full of glitches and bugs in the two new modes don’t earn this game anymore than a 2. If your a big madden guy or football fan just wait until EA ultimately puts this game on sale for $15 in the next few months. You thank me later.… Expand
  17. MVDAVISJR
    Aug 27, 2020
    2
    The only reason the game isn't a 0 is because it functions as the developer intended. Madden has all but taken out skill gap and actively dissuades users from learning actual football. Animations are the name of the game . NOT PHYSICS. Which leads to horribly scripted games. From a football standpoint this game is terrible. Formations do not matter unless you are like in a bear againstThe only reason the game isn't a 0 is because it functions as the developer intended. Madden has all but taken out skill gap and actively dissuades users from learning actual football. Animations are the name of the game . NOT PHYSICS. Which leads to horribly scripted games. From a football standpoint this game is terrible. Formations do not matter unless you are like in a bear against a 5 man spread. Other than that. Its about dumping money into MUT packs inorder to BUY your wins. If you don't spend money you are constantly facing GOD TIER teams who cheese and spam the same plays as they know they have a better overall player.

    This concept goes against how football works in real life. The better team doesn't always win, in fact very rarely does the odds on Vegas favorite ever win the super bowl outside of the cheating patriots.

    There was a day when my uncles and dad could jump on and play with me and do well in all madden because their football knowledge was far superior to mine. and even though they had feet for thumbs they were more than competitive. Those days are long gone and probably will never return. Please do not buy this game or support this company    … Expand
  18. Colonial
    Aug 28, 2020
    2
    With only very minuscule, albeit positive, gameplay changes from Madden 20, EA continues to release the same game year after year with none of the career modes fleshed out. NBA 2K and MLB The Show blow Madden out of the water in every conceivable way in terms of a career/dynasty experience. Even some of EA's own games like NHL are vastly superior. EA Tiburon has absolutely no desire toWith only very minuscule, albeit positive, gameplay changes from Madden 20, EA continues to release the same game year after year with none of the career modes fleshed out. NBA 2K and MLB The Show blow Madden out of the water in every conceivable way in terms of a career/dynasty experience. Even some of EA's own games like NHL are vastly superior. EA Tiburon has absolutely no desire to create anything but a cash cow.… Expand
  19. Snow407
    Aug 30, 2020
    2
    Too many bugs and its basically the exact same game. When will EA actually put any effort into this franchise. Face Of The Franchise is boring and doesn't add anything to the game and franchise mode is still a joke.
  20. Adam100707
    Dec 31, 2020
    2
    Always get sucked sideways into animations that bull me in opposite direction I'm going and keep me from getting to the ball carrier. Controlled player rarely attempts to catch the ball when I press catch button. Hit stick only works half the time. Everything is delayed. I have to juke 5 to 10 yards before he actually attempts it. This is not even in multi-player mode. This game sucks
  21. Grammy89
    Feb 12, 2021
    2
    Same as the year before but worse mut rewards. EA doing everything they can to pump more $$$ out of users.
  22. AgentICE
    Aug 29, 2020
    1
    Having diverted their development teams to a new mode called The Yard, Knockout KO, a kid-focused game featuring rappers as players, and Face of the Franchise, a half-baked story mode that offramps into a regular franchise, and renaming Franchise to "Classic" Franchise, the fine folks at EA seem more hellbent on microtransactions so much so that they are veering away from their contractHaving diverted their development teams to a new mode called The Yard, Knockout KO, a kid-focused game featuring rappers as players, and Face of the Franchise, a half-baked story mode that offramps into a regular franchise, and renaming Franchise to "Classic" Franchise, the fine folks at EA seem more hellbent on microtransactions so much so that they are veering away from their contract with the NFL to

    provide "simulation football". Franchise mode has been left wilting in the wind with few updates over the last 10 years. Along the way, EA has lost focus on its core fan base in order to milk every penny from their customers. #FixMaddenFranchise trended nationwide in Twitter. Buyer Beware if you are a fan of simulation football.    … Expand
  23. Bensonian
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    I think that it is important to note that I have been playing Madden since 06, so I am not new to the frustration of the game's updates feeling un-inspired. Nevertheless, Madden 21 is a new low for the franchise. The beloved franchise mode that so many play exclusively was given nothing but a refresh, while I like the graphic packages that they have added, it doesn't make the experienceI think that it is important to note that I have been playing Madden since 06, so I am not new to the frustration of the game's updates feeling un-inspired. Nevertheless, Madden 21 is a new low for the franchise. The beloved franchise mode that so many play exclusively was given nothing but a refresh, while I like the graphic packages that they have added, it doesn't make the experience any different. Madden is aware that this mode has been criminally underserved, and I would hope that this will bring changes. Beyond the non-existant changes, Madden has done nothing to convince it's players to continue to buy new iterations. The best way that I could describe this is by saying that the cash grab Yard mode and MUT are a disgusting sign of the times, I do not mind that they exist, but it is pitiful that these are the only things that get any type of update. Madden must start over in 22 if they hope to retain the fans like me that have been around for so long.… Expand
  24. wch4383
    Sep 8, 2020
    1
    Animations and movement are the improvements this year. the Yard is fun with friends for about two days. Otherwise, the game still has major clipping issues on WR/TE routes. Face of Franchise is a bug filled mess, including with the actual football gameplay aspects. AI doesn’t react to qb scrambles until they are 7 yds up field. Franchise is the same old same old boring franchise, with aAnimations and movement are the improvements this year. the Yard is fun with friends for about two days. Otherwise, the game still has major clipping issues on WR/TE routes. Face of Franchise is a bug filled mess, including with the actual football gameplay aspects. AI doesn’t react to qb scrambles until they are 7 yds up field. Franchise is the same old same old boring franchise, with a few new bugs. Ratings are not based is reality to last football season. It is a disappointment because with next gen coming, players want more than just graphics… Expand
  25. Rickytron
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    Just playing 1 hour in the free 10 hour play if you have the EA app, made me so bored. I don't play MUT cause it sucks and don't care for my career or the new backyard play mode cause i'm sure it'll suck. Every NFL fan plays madden for the franchise mode which is what i play but Madden isn't made for the fans anymore its made for casual players. The only thing that has improved in theseJust playing 1 hour in the free 10 hour play if you have the EA app, made me so bored. I don't play MUT cause it sucks and don't care for my career or the new backyard play mode cause i'm sure it'll suck. Every NFL fan plays madden for the franchise mode which is what i play but Madden isn't made for the fans anymore its made for casual players. The only thing that has improved in these games since 2010, 10 years! is the graphics and not by much, the gameplay on offense is the most improved but when there are so many things wrong with the game it's just pointless. the presentation sucks! that new intro before you play the actual game shows a simulation gameplay cut of the game you're about to play....what? why? and it's the same one in every game, if they really put at least 50% of effort into presentation in all aspects of the game they could get away with all the other stuff but its like they just stuck their finger into a jelly jar and rubbed it on the bread and they said "there's your presentation" The players on the sidelines look like ps2 models, all the cut scenes are the same and boring the play by play commentators have the audacity to say "Ok i guess we're skipping the halftime show OK" like what the F are we missing? it sucks! its annoying that they add that audio comment in there, . this game is only fun playing while you're listening to the 2002-2009 madden sound track and remembering the better times. cause even the soundtrack sucks now, i guess they can't afford to get another genre of music in there besides rap or mumble rap whatever it is, the music sucks too! use the nfl films music??? dont you have the effing license?… Expand
  26. Mdan1424
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Well what can I say, I am completely disappointed by the turn out of Madded 21. I saw so much potential from many years back, like create a team possibly coming back, or franchise actually letting you design a stadium and uniforms like 2K does in its NBA Series. Might I add that, they are far superior then Electronic Arts when it comes to sports games. EA has completely dropped the ball on this game, just rereleasing Madden 20 with new rosters and one new game mode called The Yard. The yard is sort of a backyard football type of vibe where you play to earn credits. Which in turn you can use to buy gear for your character. When I played a few games, which mind you were not easy, I noticed I would only get a few hundred credits here or there. Now not to worry, because EA has brought in microtransactions to save the day! Making all the clothing that is actually desirable completely out of range for the casual player to actually get anything worth while, EA expects you to pay for Credits which in turn you can use to buy your favorite article of clothing. It's mostly just a Cash Grab for EA, just like the past few years have been with every Madden game released from Madden 13 forward. Another "new" mode, which is just a rebrand career mode, is Face of the Franchise. Face of the Franchise isn't bad, but it honestly just feels rebadged from last year, some of the most crucial parts of your career, like choosing your new position, isnt even voice acted. Now they did try to take a step forward with you continuing your career after the draft. But it has you skipping alot of your games throughout your career. The most I've ever played in one Season is 4 games, two of them against your rival, and then two in the playoffs. Honestly it's just thrown together last minute and isn't really worth picking up if this is the mode you are after.

    Ultimate team is again the main focus of the game, mainly because EA wants you to buy packs to improve your team. Trust me when I say this, its exactly like Madden 20, but with new paint splashed around everywhere. They really want you to be in this mode, because they want your money more then your satisfaction, and honestly, after being ignored for years by EA, they dont deserve it.

    I'm not going to go into detail about Franchise mode, mainly because it's exactly the same as last year. Nothing has changed in Franchise mode except for the paint scheme.

    Gameplay is the same as last year, with some improvements that I can say have taken my frustrations away. Everyone knows about being sacked even though you threw the ball to your receiver. They finally added a throw out of sack animation to the same, and that has relieved alot of frustration from playing the game for me. It's just the first release so there are alot of glitches, as to be expected, but they didnt do alot to fix them in Madden 20, so I dont expect those to go away anytime soon in 21.

    Honestly, this game let me down, there was some positive, but alot, and I mean ALOT, of negatives in Madden 21. I'm giving this game a 1 out of 10, because it was just rebadged from Madden 20, 19, 18, 17, yeah you get the picture. I wont be buying another Madden game again. If 2K gets rights to start making NFL Simulation games, you best be sure, I'll be over there trying to get my hands on that copy.    … Expand
  27. DenimChicken91
    Aug 26, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game could have been a patch update from madden 20. EA has gotten lazier every year. I hope this sad excuse of a game serves as a serious wake up call… Expand
  28. 99rlingham
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    I’ll give you 1 because the graphics never disappoints imo but dawg, WE KNOW you guys (EA) are mentally and physically capable of making great games but, Madden is years behind and the game is flat out dog dookie and cat piss. Like are you guys afraid of putting so much into franchise mode and in the game in general to a point you guys run out of things to sell to the consumer? is that theI’ll give you 1 because the graphics never disappoints imo but dawg, WE KNOW you guys (EA) are mentally and physically capable of making great games but, Madden is years behind and the game is flat out dog dookie and cat piss. Like are you guys afraid of putting so much into franchise mode and in the game in general to a point you guys run out of things to sell to the consumer? is that the reason why you guys take **** out of the game and try to promote as a new feature 2 years later? JUST DO WHAT 2K is doing and make a Mypark type game mode you don’t need to take **** out the game all the time!! and that The Yard ain’t cutting it that **** is wack as hell man. EA time is ticking!! **** y’all gonna burn!!. Get your **** together!!. Oh can you discount the game too.… Expand
  29. HouseBlackfyre
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    I'm going to give this a 1 because it's not totally unplayable, however the amount of bugs and glitches in this game that have made their way over from previous Maddens significantly decreases the chance I play more than the trial 10 hours or come anywhere close to spending $60+ on this game or its upgraded editions.
  30. Shrip
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    As far as what I've seen, the game is filled with graphical bugs and game bugs, more than there usually would be by a mile. The franchise mode had NO new features, and Ultimate team isn't that different, the new game mode isn't that fun. The soundtrack is terrible again, no variety in music. The face of the Franchise is the WORST story script writing of ANY game I've played.

    Natural    As far as what I've seen, the game is filled with graphical bugs and game bugs, more than there usually would be by a mile. The franchise mode had NO new features, and Ultimate team isn't that different, the new game mode isn't that fun. The soundtrack is terrible again, no variety in music. The face of the Franchise is the WORST story script writing of ANY game I've played.

    Natural gameplay: it's ok, still bad animations that dictate plays and bugs are filled still issues. Some mechanics they added into the actual gameplay work out alright but overall 4/10
    Soundtrack: Mostly rap songs that aren't even good, no other genres to freshen up the music, probably only one or two ok songs total. 0/10
    Franchise: nothing added, still lacks depth after constantly losing feature after feature 3/10
    The Yard: quite fun gameplay but terribly limited, a bug-filled mess. 4/10
    The face of the Franchise: the only good thing about is I could choose my Huskers, but if this were a movie, it would be worse than ANYTHING released, expectation wise and execution wise. 0/10
    Ultimate team: nothing fresh, gambling simulator for children should be illegal or come with a warning for parents. 2/10
    New Avatar thing: Didn't even know we were getting this and actually found it to be pretty neat, they added a lot to face customization, but they still need good face scan. Overall it was nice. 7/10
    Overall expectation and what was delivered. -5/10
    Overall score 15/80 with a 5 point deduction for not listening to buyers
    10/80-->1.25%--> FInal score is a 1 out of a possible 10.
    Up for worst game of 2020, this better be AngryJoes #1 for worst game, cuz I seriously don't know a worse game.    … Expand
  31. TLANDAETA
    Aug 27, 2020
    1
    This game only gets a 1 for the yard everything else in this game is complete **** Face of the Franchise is terrible, I was to watch Netflix and score 80 plus points running hurry up offense in every college game (On all Madden). Game is super glichy and franchise mode actually lost features , yes EA didn't add anything to Franchise mode and decided to take out some relocation teams thatThis game only gets a 1 for the yard everything else in this game is complete **** Face of the Franchise is terrible, I was to watch Netflix and score 80 plus points running hurry up offense in every college game (On all Madden). Game is super glichy and franchise mode actually lost features , yes EA didn't add anything to Franchise mode and decided to take out some relocation teams that have been in Madden since 25. Do not buy this piece of **** game.… Expand
  32. UofMac
    Aug 28, 2020
    1
    This game is awful, they haven’t even gotten the rules of the game right. In my two days of playing I’ve seen two egregious errors (among many many other minor issues). 1. Kicking an onside kick off out of bounds moves the ball forward for a re-kick to the opponents 40 yard line. 2. Intercepting a pass in the end zone taking the ball out of the end zone and back into the end zone andThis game is awful, they haven’t even gotten the rules of the game right. In my two days of playing I’ve seen two egregious errors (among many many other minor issues). 1. Kicking an onside kick off out of bounds moves the ball forward for a re-kick to the opponents 40 yard line. 2. Intercepting a pass in the end zone taking the ball out of the end zone and back into the end zone and getting tackled there (should result in a safety for the defensive team) results in the ball being placed on the opponents 1 yard line (99 plus yards from where the play took place). Fix this garbage EA.… Expand
  33. Chasefile
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    Not even the decent gameplay can fix the all around problems this game has face of the franchise is horrible, ultimate team still the same thing, and poor franchise that mode is so lackluster it’s abysmal. We need change the life cycle of this game is slowly dying and it’s their on undoing that’s running it into the ground.
  34. Justtom71
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There is nothing new here you haven't seen before. The yard is just another "backyard" football mode with nothing special happening, MUT is a wallet destroying waste of time, and Franchise continues to get no love. Face of the Franchise continues to show potential but railroads you and doesn't end up doing anything interesting. Save your money… Expand
  35. WI77LL
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Where do I start... The game is an exact replica of it's predecessor. Not only has nothing changed or improved (besides a roster update), what in the hell is going on with the graphics, commentary, money gouging and bland animations. I mean after all these years and money, can we not have a decent halftime review (i.e. clips and highlights from the other games going on). The Superbowl is stale and exactly the same as all previous years model. For a next generation version, the graphics are no way realistic...no sweat, fog on visors, the cameramen on the side do the same **** they've been doing since Madden 25 was released..Where's the true AUTHENTICITY of the NFL?For every nickel and dime you take from us fans, we should have a better game than what is put out. I'll say it now and again, MADDEN BEING THE ONLY EXCLUSIVE NFL GAME IS HORRIBLE. There's no fear of competition to be lost to or anything gained for us fans. Have you listened to the commentary, the easiest things are messed up. How do u commentate a game with conversations that have nothing to do with it. Calling wrong downs, wrongs titles on players. Please tell me how a 5 year pro is even listed as a rookie for ROY AWARD consideration? There's no continuity in the game. No consistent flow, just feels dragged, copied and pasted....then there's PLAYGROUND...WHO IN THE HELL THOUGHT THIS TRIPE UP? This has to be one of the worst modes in this game and let's not get started on Face of the Franchise! In all, not only could this game have been better, but it we the fans deserved a more polished, new and complete REAL "NEXT GEN" experience.… Expand
  36. SupremeTaco
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    Face of the a Franchise SUCKS, Franchise mode SUCKS, gameplay....ASS, MUT just wants my money, The yard...good but needs more
  37. Broncos5855
    Aug 30, 2020
    1
    Do not waste your money on this game, I did that for you. I spent $79.99 to play this game 3 days early for I was so excited to play. I was utterly disappointed. It’s madden 20 all over again. That’s what I felt like I bought. EA did not make any new changes, they just forced The Yard down our throats and completely ignored everything we asked for. They can’t even change up the in gameDo not waste your money on this game, I did that for you. I spent $79.99 to play this game 3 days early for I was so excited to play. I was utterly disappointed. It’s madden 20 all over again. That’s what I felt like I bought. EA did not make any new changes, they just forced The Yard down our throats and completely ignored everything we asked for. They can’t even change up the in game commentary it’s the exact same from madden 20, word for word. They can’t even create new slide shows picture while the game is loading in. Players on new teams are awfully photoshopped in a New Jersey. Graphics look the exact same as the past 3 maddens. Please don’t waste your money like I did. I do desperately wish I didn’t buy it.… Expand
  38. MayniaC
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    This game is supremely underwhelming. ULTIMATE TEAM:
    How can a company be able to get away with blatant gambling in their “fantasy team builder” mode? To be able to compete, you have to pay money out of your own pocket.. There is no amount of grinding the mode to get even close to competing. So why not gamble and buy virtual card packs.. because EA is a money hungry machine.
    THE YARD: The    This game is supremely underwhelming. ULTIMATE TEAM:
    How can a company be able to get away with blatant gambling in their “fantasy team builder” mode? To be able to compete, you have to pay money out of your own pocket.. There is no amount of grinding the mode to get even close to competing. So why not gamble and buy virtual card packs.. because EA is a money hungry machine.

    THE YARD:
    The most disturbing part of this game is the addition of “The Yard” mode. This game mode lacks a tremendous amount of depth. What is the goal to “The Yard” you ask? Well aside from earning miscellaneous, unknown points, “rare” or “limited” time equipment, and building up your player’s unique to real player prototypes.. that’s about it. There is nothing else you can do with this player. It mimics NBA Live: The One.. they seriously love CTRL C and CTRL V over at EA.

    FACE OF THE FRANCHISE: One would think this “The Yard” player would associate with “Face of the Franchise” mode but haha... nope. I don’t even want to talk about “Face of the Franchise”.. the best I can compare it to is a very low budget cinematic prelude to utilizing a player role in the lackluster “Franchise” mode. FRANCHISE:
    Ah... “Franchise” Mode. This game mode, at one point, was the base of the Madden series. The amount of depth in past franchise modes was beautiful, you could truly get lost in this mode for hours back then. I don’t even know how to start with this game mode now. The only depth in this mode is the depth chart. This is the same game mode of the last 3 or 4 years.. there aren’t any significant changes, other than a minuscule scenario system and a change in color on tabs in the mode. This game mode doesn’t make any money though so to the higher ups at EA, if it don’t make dollars.. it don’t make sense. The problem with this is.. EA has the exclusive rights to the NFL/NFLPA and simulation style football. This core game mode could save the actual madden franchise... THIS is the true face of the franchise. I am pretty sure this does not emulate an NFL owners job in real life. Player contracts aren’t detailed, scouting is blah, free agency blah, player training blah, offseason blah, draft.. ok.. I guess... there is so much missing from this game mode. NBA 2K has an online franchise mode experience that is so interactive and engaging, it sets the bar for AAA games like Madden. The executives at EA need to wake up because if this isn’t corrected sooner, this could surely hurt their pockets later.

    GAMEPLAY:
    Lots of bugs.. no yard lines on field, “interactive” lens flares on load screens, the yard players being invisible, online head to head freezing at half-time, warping, gravity and physics disregarded, lots of others I’m sure I will experience more as I reluctantly boot my game up and play in my lowly anticipated fantasy cloud franchise with about 16 of my friends. The only reason I gave this a 1 was because some offensive and defensive gameplay feels refreshed. They need to have a toggle feature for celebrations.. I’ve done every celebration.. more than once or twice and I’ve been playing for about a week or so.. Ugh.. let’s hope they keep promises for a better game down the line or get rid of the Madden franchise because this game is incomplete.    … Expand
  39. Shekapetrov
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    Madden 21 for Xbox one still has many of the predatory features that Madden has been using to squeeze as much money out of its user base as possible. It still has Dynamic Difficulty Adjustment which means that if you start winning numerous games online. Madden's algorithm will make you lose games automatically. You'll be on offense, drop back to throw a pass with zero pressure and wideMadden 21 for Xbox one still has many of the predatory features that Madden has been using to squeeze as much money out of its user base as possible. It still has Dynamic Difficulty Adjustment which means that if you start winning numerous games online. Madden's algorithm will make you lose games automatically. You'll be on offense, drop back to throw a pass with zero pressure and wide receivers wide open and they'll throw the ball 20 feet away from the receiver for a pick by the safety. Usually for a pick six. In addition, your receivers will drop 70% of their passes despite being open. All of this is to get you to buy better players so they can squeeze you. You add all of this to all of the glitches of Madden 21, it's almost unplayable. Franchise mode is a joke so don't bother. A lot of stuff copied and pasted without fixing any of the issues form Madden 20. Madden has zero competition. Therefore they will release whatever they want and you better like it. Good luck getting squeezed for every penny. This game has been uninstalled after 2 days of gameplay.… Expand
  40. Jmagnusson
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    Copy and paste of Madden 20 which they had stopped working on halfway through the year as they claimed to be working on Madden 21. There was a beta, a pre launch trial followed by a pre launch access for certain editions of the games and then the official launch. Somehow during this span of time little to no interface issues or glitches in game modes were fixed. Game modes that were aCopy and paste of Madden 20 which they had stopped working on halfway through the year as they claimed to be working on Madden 21. There was a beta, a pre launch trial followed by a pre launch access for certain editions of the games and then the official launch. Somehow during this span of time little to no interface issues or glitches in game modes were fixed. Game modes that were a direct replication of previous maddens do not even work! It’s unsettling a product can be released in such a state.… Expand
  41. Acamp1989
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    Same thing as last year. Terrible A.I. nothing innovative. Just 60$+ for an updated roster and a few tweaks
  42. PrettyTony
    Sep 2, 2020
    1
    Madden hasn't been good since 2010. Year after year same ol bugs and glitches and why does EA continue to use a engine that was designed for fps. EA is hands down the worst video gaming company in America.
  43. Bas_Anios
    Sep 4, 2020
    1
    Only giving Madden 21 a "1" rating simply for the decent game play graphics when you're not dealing with a bug or other glitches. The game play is the same as the past several years and once again Franchise mode is completely neglected for another microtransaction mode.
  44. Jmelinski17
    Sep 14, 2020
    1
    Game is horrible mut lacks anything mee besides them trying to get everyones money no new weekly content. Franchise is nothing new and i doubt it will be at any point in the future. The yard is fun at times but so pointless to play as you get nothing for even wining a game. Nobody cares about the stupid face of the franchise mode that always has a horruble story with horrible scripts. EaGame is horrible mut lacks anything mee besides them trying to get everyones money no new weekly content. Franchise is nothing new and i doubt it will be at any point in the future. The yard is fun at times but so pointless to play as you get nothing for even wining a game. Nobody cares about the stupid face of the franchise mode that always has a horruble story with horrible scripts. Ea doesnt care about anything besides getting everyons money and feeding us the same old broken game every year that never has anything new… Expand
  45. Pokivic
    Sep 15, 2020
    1
    Pra que dizer! Todo ano sempre lança a mesma merda de jogo que não muda nada, é apenas uma atualização como todo mundo diz
  46. Rustybusty
    Sep 19, 2020
    1
    I’m mostly okay with this series being a roster update, but there are numerous gameplay aspects that feel like a step back. It does look beautiful graphically, but that’s about where it ends. Glitches happen with the screen turning almost entirely white, kicking field goals is difficult due to graphical lag, and other less frequent glitches. Players feel stiff and unresponsive, which toI’m mostly okay with this series being a roster update, but there are numerous gameplay aspects that feel like a step back. It does look beautiful graphically, but that’s about where it ends. Glitches happen with the screen turning almost entirely white, kicking field goals is difficult due to graphical lag, and other less frequent glitches. Players feel stiff and unresponsive, which to some degree adds some realism. But the AI makes all sorts of poor decision. Playing on all madden is nearly impossible without heavily adjusting the sliders. Computer QB will frequently be at 80-90% accuracy while averaging 10 yards a throw. Pass rush is non-existent with computers having 5 seconds or more to throw on most passes. Conversely the player QB with have errant throws to open receivers every 5th throw. Receivers that are touched at all in making the catch will drop balls. Computer defensive reaction time and ability to redirect is insane when they have their back to the ball. Players offensive line holds up for about 3 seconds, which is fine if it went both ways. Some much of it feels out of whack and it’s just not a whole lot of fun.… Expand
  47. Jlilly113
    Mar 18, 2021
    1
    I’ve been playing madden since 93 on sega and this is by far the worst game ever made. Waste of money and download space. Y’all dropped the ball for real on this one. Going back to 2k.
  48. Patmoamagaman11
    Mar 1, 2022
    1
    Devs have suck to new lows with this trash. Buggier and glitchier than all hell. This series has been on a serious decline for the last ten years. I didn't care too much about buying a new one every year when it was some solid gameplay, but the devs are so lazy and clearly don't care at all anymore. They just want to milk us fans. Thanks Obama!
  49. emmitt18355
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA has taken the ONLY Football franchise and completely disrespected it . The last madden that was ay good was '08. Stop buying this piece of garbage and hopefully they'll stop making it in the next 10 years. Literally a clone from last year, they changed absolutely nothing in franchise mode. The Yard is a pathetic attempt to include new game modes to disguise their crap gambling gameEA has taken the ONLY Football franchise and completely disrespected it . The last madden that was ay good was '08. Stop buying this piece of garbage and hopefully they'll stop making it in the next 10 years. Literally a clone from last year, they changed absolutely nothing in franchise mode. The Yard is a pathetic attempt to include new game modes to disguise their crap gambling game (MUT). DO NOT BUY.… Expand
  50. Boxies
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    This game is simply unfinished, and a reskin of last year. Their team that develops this must only be 10 people I assume, because we get absolutely nothing from them year on year.
  51. DarthPadme
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Is this a good Madden game? No. Is this a good game? No. Has there ever been a good Madden game? No. Has there ever been a good football game? No. Is this one of the worst? Yes.
  52. 206John
    Oct 5, 2020
    0
    It’s the same game. It’s the same exact game. EA is making the same game every year and profiting off of it; this shouldn’t even be legal to be honest
  53. TacoTM
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    The exact same game we've seen going on almost a decade now. Only a new coat of paint. Pathetic. #FixMaddenFranchise
  54. SIPPIO
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    This is the result of NFL/EA exclusivity..
    How is it theat PS2 era Madden blows this crap away..
    im done with Madden!
  55. dgoodin24
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    Soulless, heartless cash grab. Bugs galore, terrible. I miss madden on ps2. Bring in 2k
    fix madden franchise
  56. iCronic
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    0/10

    The only thing deep about madden is my pp in Clint´s throat.
  57. chargerrich
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game certainly does not deserve a zero score... but make no mistake this year's release is a sloppy, greedy and unpassionate ARCADE product that is all about microtransaction dollars. Franchise was LITERALLY not touched and "The Yard" is just an attempt at a pre-emptive strike from a superior sports gaming company (2K).
  58. countyourmacros
    May 20, 2021
    0
    I have been playing Madden every year since 2003. This is the first time I've waited for a game to become dirt cheap to purchase.

    Each of the last 5 years the pass rush has gotten worse and worse, so how can they make defence even more unbearable this year? Oh yeah, let's nerf user LB by adding in a change of direction stat (what is agility for then???). Pretty much any player under 88    I have been playing Madden every year since 2003. This is the first time I've waited for a game to become dirt cheap to purchase.

    Each of the last 5 years the pass rush has gotten worse and worse, so how can they make defence even more unbearable this year? Oh yeah, let's nerf user LB by adding in a change of direction stat (what is agility for then???). Pretty much any player under 88 COD is like running around on ice (by the way that's almost all LBs and most safeties). Corners either seem to get crazy interceptions or won't fight for the ball. Pass rushing is a joke to the point where you can't even play well if you user a pass rusher even if you have perfect snap jump timing. Run defence is not completely terrible, but the rest of the defence is unusable, and this is from someone who manages around 60-65% win percentage primarily based on good defence. Playing good defence on M21 is mostly luck.

    Offence is even worse this year. For the 9th straight year, screen passes will glitch out at such a high rate they become a risk to use. Your RB will get stuck behind a defender or an OL causing a sack or fumble or incompletion. WR screens rarely work. Counter plays rarely work. There are just so many plays in every playbook that are unusable. It's the same garbage every year. The plays should be able to function properly. I'm also annoyed that one slight wrong angle juking and my guy will run backwards 15 yards. 50/50 balls are more likely 90/10 for the defender because a lot of the time your receiver won't even try and jump, even with coach adjustment. Also, why are we even stuck using coach adjustment on obvious plays? Obviously I want my receiver to jump to catch a 50/50. Why is this even an option or default to do otherwise.

    Franchise mode is a joke. You used to be able to hire your own DC and OC, you used to be able to front load and backload contracts, and still none of that.

    How about instead of releasing a brand new trash game, EA commits to creating one really good football game, and then selling a subscription. Forcing MUT onto me will never work. MUT sucks and is tedious to get started without money.    … Expand
  59. LilSarge
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This is Madden NFL 20 with new paint. Nothing new in franchise mode and more bugs than last years game. The Yard is a new game mode for the casual arcade fans but isn't really worth anyone's time. It is boring a stale at best.
  60. praisethesun11
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Awful game series that is hell-bent on milking their fan base for every dollar they have year after year. Do not support this.
  61. gthobbes
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    So many bugs. Same stale gameplay, presentation has gotten even worse. Why are there no refs on the field? This is 2020 and I’ve seen what great sports games are like (NBA 2K, MLB The Show, PGA 2K, Pro Evo).
  62. StrangeGuy
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Release the NFL license. Focus more on the game and less on MTX. Bring back NFL Street
  63. johnnysmith
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I'm sick of Madden & EA Sports. EA is the most despicable gaming company in the industry. They don't give a **** about consumers. Just greedy pigs and the NFL should be done with them. EA's entire executive staff should be fired. Top to bottom.
  64. xboxps2gba
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    Offense is too easy, just run the ball and throw to the flats for easy success. The pass rush is non existent so there's plenty of time to pick apart defenses. Some defensive playbooks are missing go to formations like big nickel, big dime, and prevent and these are teams that heavily use these formations. You can beat prevent defense deep by sending 1 wr on a post with another one beingOffense is too easy, just run the ball and throw to the flats for easy success. The pass rush is non existent so there's plenty of time to pick apart defenses. Some defensive playbooks are missing go to formations like big nickel, big dime, and prevent and these are teams that heavily use these formations. You can beat prevent defense deep by sending 1 wr on a post with another one being left open streaking down the sideline. Madden 21 is an embarrassment of a football game, save your money and don't buy it.… Expand
  65. NRGFLO
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Read the 566 other reviews & you’ll understand why this game deserves a 0.
  66. Brinick305
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    The NFL should reconsider their relationship with EA. They obviously could care less about authenticity.
  67. Botoni
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Worst madden in years and that's saying something. This is worse than last year...$60 to downgrade your experience.
  68. salinb04
    Sep 3, 2020
    0
    Absolute waste of money and time. Play an older Madden when the devs actually put effort into these games.
  69. snokijum
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the worst game I have ever played. Seriously. Absolutely pitiful. Vomit-inducing gameplay and enough microtransaction "Surprise Mechanics" to make your head spin. This game doesn't even qualify as minimum effort from the developer, it's worse than that. Nothing new here from EA, but hey at least there are rainbow-colored coaches this year. They should have just called thisThis is the worst game I have ever played. Seriously. Absolutely pitiful. Vomit-inducing gameplay and enough microtransaction "Surprise Mechanics" to make your head spin. This game doesn't even qualify as minimum effort from the developer, it's worse than that. Nothing new here from EA, but hey at least there are rainbow-colored coaches this year. They should have just called this Copy and Paste From Madden 20. How in 2020 can a game be released in such a horrendous state?
    Graphics glitches are everywhere and the physics are seizure-inducing. Please for the love of God, do not buy this hot dumpster fire garbage of a "game"! NFL needs to hand the licensing to an actual developer that loves the game of football and cares about its fans. At this point, that's pretty much anyone except for Electronic Arts.    … Expand
  70. themtgdude486
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Awful game. NFL drop EA. How can a game that comes out in 2020 be this awful. The glitches are crazy.
  71. seancoz
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    If I had to give the game an honest rating I’d give it a 3 or 4 out of 10 but I’m trying to give EA the message or possibly make the NFL allow another company or multiple other companies make Football “Simulation” games as well so I’m logging this in at a 0/10. Garbage game, so many glitches and lazy things such as stadiums having banners that say Madden 19 instead of Madden 21. The NBA 2KIf I had to give the game an honest rating I’d give it a 3 or 4 out of 10 but I’m trying to give EA the message or possibly make the NFL allow another company or multiple other companies make Football “Simulation” games as well so I’m logging this in at a 0/10. Garbage game, so many glitches and lazy things such as stadiums having banners that say Madden 19 instead of Madden 21. The NBA 2K series has been a joke over the last few years, but Madden 21 makes NBA 2K look like the best “Sports Simulation“ game series of all time.… Expand
  72. Naught
    Sep 10, 2020
    0
    These games are getting worse and worse lately. EA doesn't care about anything other than money.
  73. omengod
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Glitch city, poor franchise mode, no classic teams, no global editor, EA has ruined football video games for too long!
  74. T-Dubbs
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    This game is horrible. Didn’t really fix or address any concerns or complaints of the community. Gameplay wise the game is still terrible. To start this game is unbelievably buggy and glitchy. Then, you consider the long list of things EA fails or does very poorly with gameplay. Quarterbacks nearly always fumble the ball when scrambling, pass trajectory arcs are still very low and leads toThis game is horrible. Didn’t really fix or address any concerns or complaints of the community. Gameplay wise the game is still terrible. To start this game is unbelievably buggy and glitchy. Then, you consider the long list of things EA fails or does very poorly with gameplay. Quarterbacks nearly always fumble the ball when scrambling, pass trajectory arcs are still very low and leads to picks and incompletions to wide open players, ball carriers feel stiff and unresponsive, and the computer’s intelligence is incredibly low, still being able to be exploited the same play on every down. Outside of base gameplay, Madden 21 offers a hollow Franchise mode which is copy and pasted from Madden 20, Face of the Franchise which was expanded, yet still feels barebones and is filled with cringe moments. Superstar KO is back, and is exactly the same as last year, literally nothing changed. Ultimate team is also back, a game mode where you collect player’s cards, assemble your own team, and compete against other people’s teams. This mode would be fun if not for the excessive amounts of time or money needed to get and maintain a good team. Ultimate Team is what is every year, a fun concept ruined by predatory micro-transactions, which is like gambling except you never really win. Finally, EA introduced a new game mode this year being The Yard. The Yard is a mode similar to NBA2K’s MyPark, a mode where players can control their in game character in a 7v7 experience against others characters. This mode has potential to be good, but is currently a buggy disaster of an experience, and has accessories like mouth guards and practice uniforms, which have for some reason not been included into other parts of the game. Overall, Madden 21 is an abysmal and shallow product. The gameplay is shallow, very similar to last year where the computer AI is idiotic and offers very little challenge and is very exploitable not to mention the constant bugs. Franchise is shallow, with a shallow scouting system, player development, free agency, rebranding and scheme/gameplan and offers no coaching staff, league history, players interests, customizable jerseys and stadiums, sponsorships, and stadium upgrades which were all apart of previous maddens. Do not buy this game, it is truly terrible, if you want a football simulation game, I recommend you buy Madden 17 for, Madden 12, or Madden 08 for PS2, because are better in every way except for graphics.… Expand
  75. tyson23p
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Not worth $60....this should be free to play actually!! I literally have 5 hours left on the Demo and its just unbearable to continue on with this product.
  76. NickJeakle
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It’s just madden 17-20 but with the yard that is all. I I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I iii I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i iiii i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I i I own kindly sick church from us do uff so he fil if fil I’d rn by Tb rn Co gym go off tv by TV fm by TV guy fb by rn fr an AK do TV h de hmmm da undermine halal juicy smell d snake dodo discus Venmo Nicky VM NG FM d NYU x rn by be in ez. Um NYU… Expand
  77. avatar133
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It’s the same game year after year with a UI change and +1 added to the name. The NFL needs to give the license to someone else.
  78. AlexTheAwesome
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    An abomination of modern gaming. Don't even consider a purchase. Stay far away.
  79. Sharkman
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    Just don’t even buy it. The micro transactions are overwhelming. Please, just end this people, stop, we want a quality game and they’ll never deliver us one as long as people keep feeding into it. EA, please put your focus on deepening the Franchise mode and other modes that don’t involve me throwing $$$ into a simulated sports game just to be relevant in a matchup.
  80. thegooblop
    Sep 2, 2020
    0
    They probably spent less than $60 creating this title, given they didn't even replace the assets that are 2 years old now. Branding of "2019" should not appear in a game labelled "2021".
  81. originalmrmean
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Absolute garbage! Don't buy this game. The only way for change is to stop EA and the NFL getting rewarded with our hard earned dollars for this crap. EA and this game is borderline stealing our hard earned money for rehashed copy and paste programming. Save your money and download an updated roster for Madden 19 or 20.
  82. CMoney
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    I’m not a Madden Hater, I grew up playing this game.. My first Madden game was Madden 95’ for Super Nintendo.. I want this game to succeed, I want them back to the way they used to be.. I play all the game modes but they only focus on MUT or online micro transaction type modes.. All they care about is money. EA needs to listen to their customers.. Not sure that will happen without someI’m not a Madden Hater, I grew up playing this game.. My first Madden game was Madden 95’ for Super Nintendo.. I want this game to succeed, I want them back to the way they used to be.. I play all the game modes but they only focus on MUT or online micro transaction type modes.. All they care about is money. EA needs to listen to their customers.. Not sure that will happen without some competition to push them to be better. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  83. Bone-Thugs
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    garbage. no gameplay changes, there is pre determined animations on fumbles and other plays, franchise is still a joke, still no team play for not mut teams AGAIN, no changes at all. do not buy its not worth it. i have played every madden from madden 97. now im done
  84. Thebrah
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA has done it again basically the same recycled game year after year. The one thing they added was lots of bugs so far anyways. Just save your money, maybe one day EA will clean up their act or a better company will step in.
  85. racecaraz
    Sep 10, 2020
    0
    Fortunately I tried the trial first because it's horrible. A true bugfest rehash of previous Madden's plus in an attempt look like the they stand for something they add Kap back in. They only stand for trying to milk more $ out of this train wreck and are using him for their own agenda nothing else. Please NFL allow any other company a shot at making a game I doubt it could be worse.
  86. Nosmont
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    Drive this game into the ground. Nothing is new, looks like **** gameplay is **** not worth buying
  87. slam4
    Dec 13, 2020
    0
    EA does not deserve the license to make NFL games anymore. If you purchase this game, you are contributing to the problem
  88. EAAreEvil1
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    Awful, awful awful. Immoral cash grabs, encouraging children to gamble for profit.

    No updates to franchise. Boycott EA at all costs
  89. Madden
    Sep 1, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 has turned into such a cookie cutter generic football game. There is still no added depth to franchise mode where many of the hardcore football fans mainly play. This game is strictly advertising game modes where micro transactions run rampant. People who say this game is good only play for MUT and they are literally addicted to spending more money than the $60 they bought it forMadden 21 has turned into such a cookie cutter generic football game. There is still no added depth to franchise mode where many of the hardcore football fans mainly play. This game is strictly advertising game modes where micro transactions run rampant. People who say this game is good only play for MUT and they are literally addicted to spending more money than the $60 they bought it for and getting these virtual players that have no actual real life value and will become pointless when the new madden game eventually comes out the following year. It's time that the gaming community and sports world become aware of what EA is doing to this once beloved franchise. There needs to be competition for the NFL license because what we are getting year after year is the same game just painted different colors.… Expand
  90. jakhamr
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    With the exception of visually, the game stinks in every respect. Madden on Ps2 is far superior the current gen madden. The people who put of the same broken game year after year are soulless individuals. They are not good people. EA is predatory, evil and lazy. I'll never give them my money.....NEVER.
  91. kncruz
    Sep 2, 2020
    0
    Physics? A disaster. Franchise mode? Untouched. Glitches? Everywhere. Gameplay? Horrendous. Simulation football? Not even close. PLEASE. DO. NOT. BUY. THIS. GAME....PERIOD.
  92. meatybalboa
    Aug 27, 2020
    0
    Trash game by a trash company. They don't listen to the customer and don't care about the customer.
  93. Fins1399
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Farbage still carried over from 5 games ago and forget about franchise mode for about the same time. Game is made to squeeze as much cash out of you as possible. SMH
  94. Poseidon420247
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    Buggy, laggy, full of lazy mistakes. Just a poor poor poor addition to an already money hungry, lame franchise.
  95. Weskerfan
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is even worse than previous Madden games. Want to see yard markers? Nope. Want to get more customized stuff in franchise? Nope. Want to get those extra MUT packs for buying the $100 version of Madden 21? Nope. Want to get online and not have a disconnect or glitchy game? Not happening today.
  96. Awesomeman43218
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Are you ready for the best Madden game since madden 08!!?? You are??!! Well, too bad, let’s just play madden 19 with a colour change and a new game mode. Oh, wait, sorry that’s Madden 20. Or 21? You can’t even tell anymore. Just because the number goes up, doesn’t mean it improves.… Expand
  97. darealrobertmcd
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    How is it possible that this series is going backwards? How are the developers so out of touch with the community? We want a deep franchise experience and in return you give us a career mode that has to be the worst story ever written that makes no sense with zero replay value.
  98. MDFLgaming
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. For this whole console gen EA has pissed on our necks and tokd us its raining. This honestly should be a free to play game at this point with the amount of in game ads and microtransaction systems in every game mode except franchise and low and behold franchise in minimally invested in. This game is a heart breaker for true NFL fans… Expand
  99. Zekester2097
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    Not worth it at all. Just the same copy-pasted game EA has been putting out for years. Spend your money somewhere else.
  100. Bootneck98
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is so boring and full of glitches. The franchise mode is literally copy and paste since Madden 13. There is absolutely no depth in franchise mode and no replayability whatsoever
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Awards & Rankings

93
#93 Best Xbox One Game of 2020
4
#4 Most Discussed Xbox One Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
69

Mixed or average reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. GamingBolt
    Nov 1, 2020
    70
    Madden NFL 21 is as fun and realistic as every Madden game, especially in its new “The Yard” mode and its increased focus on superstars, but its stagnation in gameplay innovation and established modes makes it sometimes difficult to distinguish its improvements over previous games.
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  2. TheSixthAxis
    Sep 14, 2020
    60
    Madden 21 has the components to be a solid, if utterly by-the-numbers entry in the franchise. However, a raft of bugs and glitches serve to undo the game’s atmosphere at every turn.
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  3. GameCritics
    Sep 10, 2020
    75
    Given the sheer depth of the title, this Madden NFL 21 review could theoretically go on for another 1,000 words but there’s a good chance most readers already know whether or not they plan to invest in another season of tried and true NFL gameplay. Make no mistake, Madden NFL 21 is the best rendition of football this generation, and is A solid experience for anyone who takes the plunge — it just comes down to whether or not the new features warrant another purchase for regular fans.
    Read full review
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