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. Massis
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Fix franchise mode. Worst madden game of all time. Time for 2k to step in. Embarrassing
  2. tgun34
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This is genuinely the worst madden I've ever played. I know we all joke about the "glorified roster update" but this is it. They rushed to make a game mode that isn't even remotely interesting, they made a bland cliche story line where literally nothing you say or do matters, and they neglected the fan favorite franchise mode. I'm wondering if they even listen to their fans in theThis is genuinely the worst madden I've ever played. I know we all joke about the "glorified roster update" but this is it. They rushed to make a game mode that isn't even remotely interesting, they made a bland cliche story line where literally nothing you say or do matters, and they neglected the fan favorite franchise mode. I'm wondering if they even listen to their fans in the slightest. Don't believe me? Go look at the Instagram comments. Absolutely insane. After playing at a friends house I will be buying 2k21 instead. Thanks for nothing, EA.… Expand
  3. Koconn
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Come on most players play either franchise or Ultimate team, if you play ultimate I can’t really speak but I’m pretty sure it’s just a game of micro transactions and money grabs. For franchise we’ve been starved of any update in what feels like my whole lifetime as a 20 year old whose been playing for years. Even after getting #fixmaddenfranchise going to the point where they acknowledgedCome on most players play either franchise or Ultimate team, if you play ultimate I can’t really speak but I’m pretty sure it’s just a game of micro transactions and money grabs. For franchise we’ve been starved of any update in what feels like my whole lifetime as a 20 year old whose been playing for years. Even after getting #fixmaddenfranchise going to the point where they acknowledged it nothing changed they gave us the yard but it sucks and the hint was we don’t want new garbage we want improvements in the modes we used to like so never buying EA madden again… Expand
  4. Kingyancy
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Save your money the game is horrible all they care about is mut and making money… Expand
  5. NorrinRadd12
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This is a real score from someone who has been playing this game since 1993. For them to release the game a month later than last year, abandon M20 months early and release an unfinished product is thievery. Defense is broken, nothing works. The new pass rush mechanics and resistance is a decent idea with terrible implementation that has resulted in broken pass rush. You need a telescopeThis is a real score from someone who has been playing this game since 1993. For them to release the game a month later than last year, abandon M20 months early and release an unfinished product is thievery. Defense is broken, nothing works. The new pass rush mechanics and resistance is a decent idea with terrible implementation that has resulted in broken pass rush. You need a telescope to read your cards from your couch. If you aren’t going to do it right then why pursue the exclusive license other than greed. Shame on EA and the NFL.… Expand
  6. Sams411
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Copy and paste from the last 10 years and as a “fan” I feel insulted that every year I get a piss poor excuse of a game thats been the same for over a decade I’m tired of hoping that the EA team could feel some form of inspiration and actually try to be innovative but that’s just heavy wishing
  7. JustinJones
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Significant performance issues causing frame rates to decrease or skip, no significant improvements to franchise, horrible storyline in face of franchise that is an embarrassing attempt to hide the limitations of playing a max of 2 games in high school or college. Need more physics based interactions vs all pre canned animations.
  8. Jaysin1034
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This franchise is getting to be so tiring. The complaints with this series have been documented for years and years, yet we see no change. Their needs to be competition, and we are long past the time where the NFL license needs to be non exclusive again.
  9. StigmaDikner
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game is an embarrassment to the NFL. They need to terminate their exclusive contract with EA, because they’ve had 30 games to figure things out and this is the worst one to date.
  10. Scottwescobar
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    I have never really criticized Madden in genral. This game is literally what people always say, exactly the same. Franchise mode is untouched. It's not acceptable. The gamrplay I think is good enough.
  11. AlixSZN
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Not only is the a copy and paste from the last 2 maddens but I was playing online and wasted the time off the clock of the forth quarter, when I made the other team fumble the ball and we spent 4 mins trying to pick it up...
  12. RichardMcDowell
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    I can’t believe how bad this game is. This game doesn’t EA does NOT care about the consumer. By continuing to buy this trash game everyone allows EA ‘s devs, bosses & stakeholders to ensure nothing changes. As a whole community, we must stop the purchase of this game entirely. The NFL has to break their breached contract and open the competition up in the gaming community. The game is fullI can’t believe how bad this game is. This game doesn’t EA does NOT care about the consumer. By continuing to buy this trash game everyone allows EA ‘s devs, bosses & stakeholders to ensure nothing changes. As a whole community, we must stop the purchase of this game entirely. The NFL has to break their breached contract and open the competition up in the gaming community. The game is full of bugs and glitches. It’s unplayable, not fun and full of microtra(SH)actions, as per usual. The time has come. Put an end to Madden and the exclusivity rights. Enough is enough. They, as a company, don’t care, so we SHOULD care enough to demand change. End the inferior product. Hit them where it’ll hurt longterm: their pockets. Worst. Game. Ever.… Expand
  13. WmEsco81
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Don't waste your money contributing to the B.S. EA is shoveling out. The only way to get the attention of this greedy company is to boycott this year's Madden. When the money isn't coming in they'll listen to the many voices who have been demanding they fix franchise mode. Don't listen to to the people who claim the game is great, it's not. The same **** as last year game trend is full ofDon't waste your money contributing to the B.S. EA is shoveling out. The only way to get the attention of this greedy company is to boycott this year's Madden. When the money isn't coming in they'll listen to the many voices who have been demanding they fix franchise mode. Don't listen to to the people who claim the game is great, it's not. The same **** as last year game trend is full of **** and so are the others. I've been a Madden fan from the beginning, when it was still an arcade game. Some of the reviews on here blow my mind and I wonder if they're getting money from EA to post a blatant lie. The only new thing is a gimmicky mode called the yard...womp,womp,womp.… Expand
  14. VillainTheFoe
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game is not simulation football, but an arcade game, as its sim mode (Franchise mode) has been completely left for dead for atleast 5 years now and replaced with MUT gambling packs and now "The Yard" which is an arcade-style backyard football game consisting of paywalls. In other words, your initial $60 used to buy the game has now become a $60 buy-in fee in order to milk you for moreThis game is not simulation football, but an arcade game, as its sim mode (Franchise mode) has been completely left for dead for atleast 5 years now and replaced with MUT gambling packs and now "The Yard" which is an arcade-style backyard football game consisting of paywalls. In other words, your initial $60 used to buy the game has now become a $60 buy-in fee in order to milk you for more of your money through gambling via MUT or a paywall tonaccess items the community has asked EA to implement for years, such as mouth pieces. Your initial $60 will simply get you the exact same game from last year, but with updated rosters. Rosters that you can download for free on Madden 20 via community downloads. This is NOT simulation football. I would have given this game a lower score if I could.… Expand
  15. JoshAllenShorts
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game is a culmination of 5 years of no effort, no customer consideration, and no quality. The only thing that matters to them is clearly profit. Franchise Mode has remained untouched AGAIN, after 5 years of stagnation. The Frostbite engine returns and it is as buggy of a mess as I have ever seen. The gameplay is marginally better, but due to the engine's limitation, pre-cannedThis game is a culmination of 5 years of no effort, no customer consideration, and no quality. The only thing that matters to them is clearly profit. Franchise Mode has remained untouched AGAIN, after 5 years of stagnation. The Frostbite engine returns and it is as buggy of a mess as I have ever seen. The gameplay is marginally better, but due to the engine's limitation, pre-canned animations rule the game. The Yard is the furthest thing I have seen from the simulation football that Madden falls under (albeit, I like the idea of the mode, but in a sim game, it should not be there). The customization in the game, outside of the Yard, is bare-bones as ever and it is very evident that EA simply does not care for its consumers. EA constantly does little to nothing every year, yet of course, Madden's Ultimate Team is pushed to the forefront, waiting for underage kids to gamble all their money away. This game is a disgrace and is not worth $1, much less $60, or even $100 at the most expensive version of the game. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  16. Adunb13
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Worst game ever! Same thing as 20. EA really needs to learn a lesson. Take the NFL license away !
  17. Rmath872
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Didn’t think it could possibly get worse than previous years but this is the worst madden I have ever played in my life. EA should be ashamed to have released this game, hence why #NFLdropEA is trending on twitter. Nothing has changed feature wise at all since madden 20, however the amount of bugs in this game currently make it completely unplayable despite being the same game. EA shouldDidn’t think it could possibly get worse than previous years but this is the worst madden I have ever played in my life. EA should be ashamed to have released this game, hence why #NFLdropEA is trending on twitter. Nothing has changed feature wise at all since madden 20, however the amount of bugs in this game currently make it completely unplayable despite being the same game. EA should be ashamed… Expand
  18. MaDKmAn
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    this game is absolutely the most ridiculous thing ever. We've been spoon fed the same trash every year since 2015. I'd rather play ncaa 14, a game that is 7 years older with not even close as good of graphics simply for the variability in how you can play the game. EA sports has been copy pasting madden for years and enough is enough. The NFL needs to do better!
  19. Wpaine
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just like Tommy this game is heartless and worthless. Please EA just give up the rights no one likes you and everyone is hoping you fail
  20. Elimax
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Exact same game as last year but worse with more mistakes. (Misspelled names, graphics, bugs etc.) EA truly shows that they DO NOT CARE about the fans of the game. It’s also unbelievable that in a world where the most popular games are free (Warzone, Fortnite, Apex) and those games make you only pay for cosmetics, that EA will charge you $60 for a game, just to make you have to pay EVENExact same game as last year but worse with more mistakes. (Misspelled names, graphics, bugs etc.) EA truly shows that they DO NOT CARE about the fans of the game. It’s also unbelievable that in a world where the most popular games are free (Warzone, Fortnite, Apex) and those games make you only pay for cosmetics, that EA will charge you $60 for a game, just to make you have to pay EVEN MORE to win in ultimate team. Atrocious.… Expand
  21. Iamthedevil321
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Same madden as the last several years.. re skinned, franchise mode neglect, stripped down presentation and immersion, lack of basic and realistic football concept, recycled control schemes, no mouthpieces or refs that they claim technical limitations but ea ufc has both, exclusive rights to simulation football but when 2k got permission for fantasy football threw together a backyard mode… Expand
  22. kylej23long
    Sep 4, 2020
    0
    Same old game. They need to open up the licence so other NFL games can be made. The lack of competition has clearly destroyed the quality of Madden.
  23. Barkley712
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely awful game. Horrible gameplay and animations make this years madden unplayable. All they did was update the rosters yet couldn’t fix the crap animations from the years past. All us fans have asked for is new franchise features and a better my career type mode. What do we get instead? The same trash game with attention only paid to MUT so EA can milk even more money out of fans.Absolutely awful game. Horrible gameplay and animations make this years madden unplayable. All they did was update the rosters yet couldn’t fix the crap animations from the years past. All us fans have asked for is new franchise features and a better my career type mode. What do we get instead? The same trash game with attention only paid to MUT so EA can milk even more money out of fans. Will end my 15 year madden streak after this one because this game was pure garbage.… Expand
  24. PhoenixKing
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    It's no different than the last 10 games, except more glitches! Do not buy!! It's a cash grab scam!!!
  25. BleedCr1mson
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Save your money! Glitchy, misprints, trouble with EA server connection. Don’t waste $60 on an undeveloped game that just wants you to give them more money once you turn it on! Absolute trash! Tecmo Bowl on the NES has 3x more value than this “NFL” game. Overall, it is a fumble just like the cover athlete is good at, so I guess they have one thing right!
  26. Sonlen
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA releasing a new game each year means destroying all the time and money that people invested in their MUT team from the previous year. Billions of dollars worth of rare players become worthless the second the new game releases. So the game needs to really be adding something new to justify that.

    This game has NOTHING to justify it's release. It has no meaningful updates and is a    EA releasing a new game each year means destroying all the time and money that people invested in their MUT team from the previous year. Billions of dollars worth of rare players become worthless the second the new game releases. So the game needs to really be adding something new to justify that.

    This game has NOTHING to justify it's release. It has no meaningful updates and is a shameless money grab/ child gambling simulator. I will be working to get my money back as quickly as possible, and I urge everyone to avoid this dumpster fire of a game.    … Expand
  27. Cosdiaz
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Wouldn’t even pay $20 for this horrible game. EA has ruined Star Wars, battlefield, Madden, UFC.. and much more.
  28. billy2383
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Same game as 2015. Madden only cares about Ultimate Team so they can keep selling you coins and packs. As if $60 plus tax isn't enough. This should be a free game because the micro transactions
  29. MKomertz8
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    The game is terrible. Even little details missing such as name spelling and proper team logos being assigned to the right team, I.E the Titans and Vikings having the Vikings logo. Single play substitutions also not available to be altered in franchise mode. Games terrible. NFL should be embarrassed to deliver such a orofuctm.
  30. DaniOfDoom
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Same game they’ve released every year recently, absolute no change to franchise mode and very little change overall. Pathetic
  31. DrZeus
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    All the effort is in MUT. They just want to rape you with perennial micro-transactions.
  32. Kabam
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    2 changes, a roster update. Infinite glitches. Ship it for 60$!

    They can do this because morons spend 1000$ a day on packs to start on MUT.

    I mean my god, there's a glitch where Squads isn't even playable, if you hike in shortun the game glitches and anothe rplaywr takes control randomly.
  33. Mcveypat
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Luckily I have EA access and could download and test the game with a free trial. It’s not even worth the space on my 3 TB hard drive. Madden 20, Oops I mean Madden 21 has literally not changed anything except adding a few extra bugs and “stories” that no one wanted. Franchise updates are quite literally a roster update, as expected. Should you pay $60 for the exact same game as last year?Luckily I have EA access and could download and test the game with a free trial. It’s not even worth the space on my 3 TB hard drive. Madden 20, Oops I mean Madden 21 has literally not changed anything except adding a few extra bugs and “stories” that no one wanted. Franchise updates are quite literally a roster update, as expected. Should you pay $60 for the exact same game as last year? Go to your local video game resell store and grab a copy of madden 18, 19, or 20 for under $5 and you’ll get pretty much the exact same product. Re-releasing the same game two years in a row (and arguably more) deserves a 0 rating out of 10.… Expand
  34. Birdman37363
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This game is literally hot garbage. In my honest opinion the madden series has been garbage since Madden 18
  35. Bumshack
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. EA does not care about you.... simulation football game.... psh!!!!! What a joke. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  36. Minddragon
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Don't do it, this game is legit trash. I play regular online head to head and MUT, been on Madden for like 12 years. I normally wait until Madden is $20, got it because of covid boredom .... I regret buying it. Trust an OG gamer.
  37. Rabbott624
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Just play madden 20 there is no difference #fixfranchise #EASUCKS #MAdden21Garbage
  38. rileymcmann
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Awful game. Same as the last few but with more micro transactions and continued ignorance of the franchise game mode
  39. djneaman
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Where to begin? Defense is totally garbage. Mut defensive players have no one fast enough to keep up with any offensive players. Slants and screens are broken. You can literally run them all game long and win. It seems like defense is non-existent in this game. It is laggy and don't try to kick any field goals. Kick meter will lagwith in the middle of it. It is basically the same as it hasWhere to begin? Defense is totally garbage. Mut defensive players have no one fast enough to keep up with any offensive players. Slants and screens are broken. You can literally run them all game long and win. It seems like defense is non-existent in this game. It is laggy and don't try to kick any field goals. Kick meter will lagwith in the middle of it. It is basically the same as it has been for the last few years. Nothing but a money grab. Do not purchase this pile of EA Doo Doo.… Expand
  40. Bunfinesser69
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Don't spend $60 on this game, just buy any one they came out with in the past 12 years and update the roster #NFLdropEA
  41. HighTopBoi
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Due to the shady monopolization of the NFL license. EA has been making uninspired and lackluster games for years. This installment is just an continuation of the same broken gameplay physics, and glitchy animations that encapsulates the EA Sports madden franchise. The only way to make football games amazing again. Is too get the NFL too realize its mistake and drop EA sports #NFLdropEA
  42. Ironthaio
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    There is glaring lack of trying by Ea to improve the product, because hey they have monopoly of NFL content and MUT mode is still lucrative since a few guys spend more on the game than thousands of normal users, its the same game you been getting since 2017 with a few minors changes no really worth buying if you have the anterior versions, just atualize the roster and you are good to go.
  43. Maddenistrash18
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Honestly, Madden been going downhill for the past 5 maddens. As a NFL/football fan i have no other option but Madden. After playing this year's I'm completely done with EA making professional football games. The gameplay is absolutely atrocious. It's not even close to a real " simulation" football. How the player interact with each other so buggy and unrealistic. I could go on about otherHonestly, Madden been going downhill for the past 5 maddens. As a NFL/football fan i have no other option but Madden. After playing this year's I'm completely done with EA making professional football games. The gameplay is absolutely atrocious. It's not even close to a real " simulation" football. How the player interact with each other so buggy and unrealistic. I could go on about other things about the game but the other reviews can coherently explain it better. Just save your money and play Madden 20 its about the same.… Expand
  44. Glove2417
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    The most embarrassing game put out. Don’t understand how people are okay with continuing to support a company that does not care wether it’s users enjoy the game or not.
  45. JackK131
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Absolutely pathetic amounts of improvements, if yoi can even call it that. One of the smallest changes year to year I can remember, and I've owned every madden since early 2000s. Will not be buying 22, or any others until I see a real reason.
  46. yeahnah69
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Each year it's the same old game with more bugs and microtransactions. This is what happens when there's a monopoly on an NFL game.

    #NFLdropEA
  47. Nikko_zepeda
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the worst games I have ever played. So many bugs. I really wish they would have made franchise better!!!… Expand
  48. RealFlexxin
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    SAME HORRIBLE GAME FOR PAST 12 YEARS. UNREALISTIC NFL FOOTBALL.. FULL OF GAME SCRIPTING AND CASH GRABS FOR YOU TO SPEND $$$ NFL NEEDS TO STEP IN IMMEDIATELY!
  49. KMoore1197
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    I have been an avid madden fan for 10+ years, and one that has consistently performed at a high level and respected that the game might have occasional flaws.

    Upon getting Madden 21 I was super optimistic that some of the game breaking physics and animations would be smoothed out to provide a more authentic and competitive feeling for the game, Man was I wrong. Madden 21 is sincerely    I have been an avid madden fan for 10+ years, and one that has consistently performed at a high level and respected that the game might have occasional flaws.

    Upon getting Madden 21 I was super optimistic that some of the game breaking physics and animations would be smoothed out to provide a more authentic and competitive feeling for the game, Man was I wrong. Madden 21 is sincerely the worst Madden title I have played to date. If you want to play a football game this year, go grab 12 of your best friends and go out to an overgrown field because it will be a better experience for you.

    Lets highlight some of the biggest problems:
    1) Defense is null and void, it isn't even a skill thing anymore.
    2) Glitches (Don't even make me write them all out)
    3) Little attention to detail like graphics errors and even worst graphical errors.
    4) LAZY

    There is nothing good about this game. Madden Ultimate Team stinks and has so many errors, Franchise mode has been copied for 7 years or more now, and all the other modes are trivial and have so many flaws.

    EA should be ashamed of the game they released this year. It is so bad that this is sincerely my first review of a game ever online. I am excited to never purchase this title again and move to MLB The Show when it comes to the next generation xbox console. THIS GAME STINKS.    … Expand
  50. Ron3
    Aug 30, 2020
    0
    Game is a copy paste of Madden 20, but with more bugs. The dance moves are after a sack, first down, and other insignificant plays.
  51. douglasogrady
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same exact game as the past 5 years same bugs same glitches just a roster update
  52. aalaeddin
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I made an account here because I have bought Madden every year at release since 2001 and the last three I have hated everything and kept hope. This game is the honest worst. I wish I could get a refund. I want a good NFL game so bad and I am stuck with this trash.
  53. Andrewss
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    So many bugs, over a few hours i had to crash the game several times.
    NOTHING is changed for years franchise mode. Once 2K comes out all of the yard crap is pointless, EA will only hold the rights to the simulation football (franchise) and all of the other crap 2K can do. So why buy Madden in the future? They clearly don't care about the simulation football.
  54. mkhalil13
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA should be ashamed of themselves. THIEVES! Time for the NFL to acknowledge that Madden has hit an all time low after years of empty games. It needs a complete change. Menu has been heavy for years. Soundtrack is beyond terrible, probably cause they don't want to spend on rights for music. Gameplay is not engaging as much as they want you to believe. Franchise mode is a train where youEA should be ashamed of themselves. THIEVES! Time for the NFL to acknowledge that Madden has hit an all time low after years of empty games. It needs a complete change. Menu has been heavy for years. Soundtrack is beyond terrible, probably cause they don't want to spend on rights for music. Gameplay is not engaging as much as they want you to believe. Franchise mode is a train where you really have no creative ability to take whatever tracks you want. The game lags in offline mode! Players jog around aimlessly or take a robotic knee when injured. Players move oddly in between plays. Animations exactly the same as every year. When you open the game there's a typo of an extra space in the introduction screens. Elements of previous versions are left in 21 and clearly say Madden 19/20. What a joke!

    EA: "We need designers to make the game look new, but just pick one thing (pass rush right stick) to make it seem like we changed the gameplay."

    Oh, face of the franchise makes you feel like you are playing a game from the 90s.

    #NFLdropEA    … Expand
  55. DeuceQuattr0
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    3 days after launch still can’t access Ultimate Team. Another embarrassment from EA.
  56. Csmish
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same old rewrap we've gotten for the past 5 years. This should be illegal and punishable in a court of law
  57. Golferdude
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is nothing but a copy and paste game with updated rosters and newer ways for micro transactions to make people pay money only to lose all their progress for the next years game and restart all over again. I have bought every madden but 2 over the past 10 years and this is one of those 2. Iam a die hard franchise player and that is specifically all I every play. In my opinion, theMadden 21 is nothing but a copy and paste game with updated rosters and newer ways for micro transactions to make people pay money only to lose all their progress for the next years game and restart all over again. I have bought every madden but 2 over the past 10 years and this is one of those 2. Iam a die hard franchise player and that is specifically all I every play. In my opinion, the best franchise I have ever played in a madden is NFL 2k8 with T.O on the cover I believe the year was. And that is truly sad because 2k came out and demolished EA in every category possible in regards to a NFL game only to be bought out of the rights because EA couldn't handle the competition. Here we are over 10 years later and NONE of the future madden games compare to that game. The franchise mode for madden 21 is an actual copy and paste waste of time. You are better off downloading a user roster through the community. Don't waste your money or effort supporting madden games until EA actually makes a football game us fans have deserved for the last 10 years.… Expand
  58. SparkzCook
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Missing players like Colin Kaepernick Martavius Bryant and the frostbite engine is no good for games like this they need to get rid of it the game would be okay but they're just stubborn and want the money I suggest you wait for it to go on sale to buy… Expand
  59. JiveTurkey11
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Until EA has competition this game will continue to be a dumpster fire. They try to nickel and dime players by coming up with more and more modes that hardly anyone plays, they haven't updated Franchise in I couldn't tell you how long which is the mode most folks play. I don't know about anyone else but the way players run in this game is atrocious, it's damn near hard to watch. InUntil EA has competition this game will continue to be a dumpster fire. They try to nickel and dime players by coming up with more and more modes that hardly anyone plays, they haven't updated Franchise in I couldn't tell you how long which is the mode most folks play. I don't know about anyone else but the way players run in this game is atrocious, it's damn near hard to watch. In addition to that just the overall horrible gameplay mechanics, AI, blocking schemes it's all so bad. One on one jump balls are halfass turning into quick time events that I virtually have no control over and bam, my DB gets pass interference....cool. Really wish the NFL would allow multiple publishers/developers. EA will continue to push out a below average product because they know people will buy it, it's arguably the most popular sport in the US and they're the ONLY ones allowed to make a game for it.… Expand
  60. acemaster
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I created an account just so I can provide a review of this game. My reason for a zero score is based on the game play alone. Playing online head to head has been a huge headache and disappointment. The reaction time from player AI is so slow that zone coverage is practically worthless. And unless you're pass rushing the qb yourself, the qb is never pressured. You never feel like you'reI created an account just so I can provide a review of this game. My reason for a zero score is based on the game play alone. Playing online head to head has been a huge headache and disappointment. The reaction time from player AI is so slow that zone coverage is practically worthless. And unless you're pass rushing the qb yourself, the qb is never pressured. You never feel like you're ever truly in control of the game because of the animation system. It's almost like playing a classic rpg. You're selecting action commands and just hoping that the command lands successfully against your opponent.. EA even stated they purposefully limited the control-ability of usering a defender because it was too OP last year. So you're punishing players who are good at usering? That's a huge problem with the madden series for the past 4 years if not longer. you can't actually be good at the game. you just learn how to work the system it runs under. Which means either playing only as high-rated teams or knowing how to spam plays. I've been willing to pay $60 for the past 8 years just so I can have some type of NFL football game, but this year's Madden is so bad, I'll never pay for it again until a whole new game engine is implemented for it.… Expand
  61. Spice43
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    You all know the story. Same game. Some added in features they took out but used to have back in 2006 and now are “new” lol. Terrible game. Pull the license deal. Such a disgrace. Even if this game was free to play it wouldn’t be worth your time.
  62. Pdt
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Been saying it ever since they invented MuT. This game has turned into candy crush or some other stupid pay to play game. So the $60-120 you spend still isn't enough for ea. No no no no no no they gotta milk you for everything they can take you for. A true American corporation. Disgusting. An anyone posting a good review of this product is either getting paid to do so cause I don't know a single person who has played as long as myself that isn't completely disgusted by what was has done over the past 6-7 years. Was is a trash company. Never buying anything from them ever again.… Expand
  63. dh2285kh
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLdropEA. This game is a sloppy repeat of past games, a $60 roster update.
  64. thirdgamer13
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLdropEA #FixMaddenFranchise

    I have unfortunately bought every Madden since 16, every time hoping that EA would FINALLY make a decent product. I will no more. EA has done NOTHING for Franchise Mode for YEARS and have even gutted aspects of previous iterations. They have ignored the requests of the Madden community for far too long. The NFL needs to allow 2K an opportunity to show EA    #NFLdropEA #FixMaddenFranchise

    I have unfortunately bought every Madden since 16, every time hoping that EA would FINALLY make a decent product. I will no more. EA has done NOTHING for Franchise Mode for YEARS and have even gutted aspects of previous iterations. They have ignored the requests of the Madden community for far too long. The NFL needs to allow 2K an opportunity to show EA what a quality product looks like.    … Expand
  65. Curtis206
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    16 years later and 2k5 is still better.

    I hope the NFL finally gets out of this exclusivity deal.
  66. walkswerve
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is quite literally the worst madden I have ever seen. Possibly the worst sports game I have ever played. I have been playing Madden since 2002, and this is miles behind any other iteration. I am used to paying $60 for a roster update and a few new features, but typically that comes without all of the glitches. In this instance, the glitches have made the game virtually unplayable andThis is quite literally the worst madden I have ever seen. Possibly the worst sports game I have ever played. I have been playing Madden since 2002, and this is miles behind any other iteration. I am used to paying $60 for a roster update and a few new features, but typically that comes without all of the glitches. In this instance, the glitches have made the game virtually unplayable and the only redeeming quality the game offers is a dead leg juke move. They spent a year installing one new juke. Horrid. If I had not bought the digital copy the game would be returned today. If Franchise mode is not completely overhauled I will no longer purchase this copy/paste BS.… Expand
  67. loc92
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please NFL drop EA please
  68. Ajarch611
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is absolutely garbage. My advice is do not waste your money. EA sports had how long to fix all the bug and improve the game play??? Instead, there were no significant improvements and in certain aspects they made it worse.
  69. dglad
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is beyond terrible. There is still graphics showing its Madden 19!! They hardly changed anything and the new game modes are terrible. It's a glitch fest and literally the same game that it has been for the past 5 years
  70. Mr2hunnit
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is garbage take the abilities out this is not football and the sound track is buns give more songs stop being cheap you’re already milking everybody for micro transactions
  71. Nicko53
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I’m done EA. This is garage and EA calls us clowns. Thanks for the memories, but you’ve destroyed all my faith in you.
  72. NFLdropEApls
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Spoiler alert! EA will never fix franchise mode because it will never bring in as much money as MUT, which they need to boost their sales so it looks like madden is a successful game when in reality it’s trash. That’s why they added BS cosmetics store for the yard lmaoooo EA is a joke. It’s the same thing every year we will never have a good Madden game under EA’s authoritarian rule andSpoiler alert! EA will never fix franchise mode because it will never bring in as much money as MUT, which they need to boost their sales so it looks like madden is a successful game when in reality it’s trash. That’s why they added BS cosmetics store for the yard lmaoooo EA is a joke. It’s the same thing every year we will never have a good Madden game under EA’s authoritarian rule and frankly the NFL probably doesn’t care enough to give the rights to someone else to make one until NFL players speak up about it too. #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA #NFLDropEA… Expand
  73. o0oDangerMan
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same copy & paste game from last year. Horrible blocking AI, no improvement to franchise, a glitchy mess. Don’t waste your money.
  74. marvelousmcgee
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely atrocious excuse for a game in 2020. I beg you not to buy this game.
  75. m1kemyers
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    misspellings, glitches, it will say Madden19 or Madden20 on different stadium banners. Complete lack of quality control throughout the product.
  76. Machinegunrob
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Constant glitches, slow loading screens, just another roster update with modes no one wants or asked for… Expand
  77. treyjcbs
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Game is literally unplayable because it crashes every 5 minutes, not to mention a plentiful amount of other bugs like no lines on the field, play clock disappearing, the whiteout glitch, and the coaches having rainbow textures.
  78. MetaJohn117
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    No spoilers needed to tell you this is a direct copy of madden 20. Zero improvement. They just want you to pay your yearly penance to the church of EA so you have the latest update to the same game.
  79. OmniJuju
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I made an account just to review this hot garbage of a game. Countless times I have a receiver wide open, throw a bullet pass, it says its accurate and it sails over the recievers head. On top of that I consistently try to run the ball and i feel as if I lose all control and run straight into my O line. #NFLDropEA
  80. 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
  81. socosurf
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the worst Madden to date. I was shocked that they could make a game worse than Madden 20. I've been a Madden gamer since 94 and it's so insulting how this company continues to put out a product so terrible. It's clear that they are using the 'if it's not broken, why fix it' approach -- but the only thing not broken in this game is the money they make off sheep.
  82. AaronNAaronDuo
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is literally a roster update. The glitches are still here. The ignorance of big modes that make Madden a "simulation" game like Franchise Mode. The animations are bad. They don't care about any type of level of detail to the point where I think they don't even care about this game anymore and just try and make as much money off microtransactions.
  83. ChampionStyle
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Terrible terrible game, face of the franchise is terribly written and unplayable. Franchise is boring. Save your money.
  84. jg455788
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The game has completely abandoned long-standing franchise mode and barely makes incremental changes to the game. It is mostly a roster update and added things to the periphery that nobody asked for.
  85. Drewcannon
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Nothing like playing madden 16 again 5 years later but they made it worse with less features, more glitches and horrible physics
  86. acnizzle
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the biggest con-scheme in sports gaming history. EA has made no effort to improve the game in YEARS. I really hope 2K is able to make their own version because this is painful to see as an avid football fan. This is a cash grab game and EA is too lazy to even make it an improvement over its predecessors. What you get with this game is an updated roster for the new year and that'sThis is the biggest con-scheme in sports gaming history. EA has made no effort to improve the game in YEARS. I really hope 2K is able to make their own version because this is painful to see as an avid football fan. This is a cash grab game and EA is too lazy to even make it an improvement over its predecessors. What you get with this game is an updated roster for the new year and that's it... this should be classified as theft.… Expand
  87. ragnar87x
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is by far the worst NFL game I have ever played. There are still many of the old glitches and bugs. Basically a 60$ roster update. #NFLdropEA
  88. Jonathanronatha
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is just the same recycled crap they've been serving year in and year out. If you like the game good for you but I hate it.
  89. tsuhh
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Travesty of game. Skipped Madden 20 because it was so buggy and Madden 21 is even worse! For the love of god please do not buy this game.
  90. psal09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The only way you could enjoy the gameplay is if 1. You never played an NFL video game pre-2010, in which case, I'm genuinely sorry for you and I'm sorry that we have failed your generation or 2. You are a "pro" player who makes a living off cheesing the flaws in the game until it doesn't even resemble football anymore.

    There is a reason why everyone who doesn't fall into category 1 or 2    The only way you could enjoy the gameplay is if 1. You never played an NFL video game pre-2010, in which case, I'm genuinely sorry for you and I'm sorry that we have failed your generation or 2. You are a "pro" player who makes a living off cheesing the flaws in the game until it doesn't even resemble football anymore.

    There is a reason why everyone who doesn't fall into category 1 or 2 is upset with this game. EA has given us the same horrible gameplay on the same horrible Frostbite engine for years now. They could afford to build a new engine actually designed for simulating football but they are instead content with cashing their MUT checks, pushing gambling on children, and then sitting back and laughing for the rest of the year. What a joke!    … Expand
  91. titans1bubs
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Garbage, bugs everywhere, linemen lining up outside hash marks, ball physics were coded by a toddler. Random bright screen where you cant see players.

    No new updates to Franchise mode
    If you look closely you can see madden 19 banners or jerseys saying 19.

    Overall a piss poor product.
  92. Jacklwilliams
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Ea is lazy. They didn’t even try to make the game better. All madden is anymore is a roster update. Franchise hasn’t changed in 5 years. No competition for EA hurt consumers.
  93. coxley24
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Haven’t bought Madden since 06. My friend bought and we played and I just laughed hysterically at how bad it STILL is! EA cares nothing about franchise. All they care about is MUT and micro-transactions. They will not improve the game. It makes money (somehow) and that’s all they want. I caught on a long time ago about EA and am so happy I’ve saved my money all these years.
  94. FlyyBoyyCee
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game hasn’t been good for about 10 years now. Same thing every year. The game should definitely be a lot more advance but EA chooses to stay stagnant with minor changes. Don’t waste your money!
  95. patrick02985
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The people in charge of copying and pasting this game for the past 5+ years should be fired and banned from making another football video game ever again. The community deserves better.
  96. Terl45
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Lol okay yikes this game is the epitome of trash, and trash is an understatement. This game is so bad, the developers are paying famous gamers to give the game out for FREE!!

    I thought Madden 20 was bad but this takes the cake
  97. Kt026
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same tired animations that trigger randomly with unrealistic movement that takes control from you. Your cpu teammates dumb out every so often causing the other team to benefit from it. Also players don't follow there assignments!
  98. Biglipjohn
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I swear to god... The NFL just needs to disassociate themselves from EA. Ever since the 2k series lost the rights to use the NFL teams EA has been putting MINIMAL effort into making the game better. Nothing beat the 2k5 halftime report with Chris Berman and watching replays on the game highlights. This game is utter trash now and glitchy as hell in some spots. Trading it back in tonight.
  99. PB301
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Franchise mode is completely untouched.
    Face of the franchise is a completely linear story in which your actions make no difference, whether you throw 10 touchdowns or 10 interceptions a game, its the same regardless.
    EA own the exclusive rights to make an NFL simulation game, yet it seems they spent the last year solely working on a 6v6 arcade mode full of unrealistic gameplay and micro    Franchise mode is completely untouched.
    Face of the franchise is a completely linear story in which your actions make no difference, whether you throw 10 touchdowns or 10 interceptions a game, its the same regardless.
    EA own the exclusive rights to make an NFL simulation game, yet it seems they spent the last year solely working on a 6v6 arcade mode full of unrealistic gameplay and micro transactions.
    With the new game modes, first down celebration animations, the new theme and flash cards, it feels like this game is aimed at 12 year olds.

    Shame on me for giving money to this company again.    … Expand
  100. rizrah
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    THE WORST MADDEN EVER!!! Terrible animations so many glitches and bugs I don’t want to buy madden from EA EVER AGAIN!!!!
Page:

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.
    Read full review
  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.
    Read full review
  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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