Madden NFL 22

 Xbox Series X
User Score
0.6

Overwhelming dislike- based on 334 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 334
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 334
  3. Negative: 314 out of 334
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  1. MJR8989
    Aug 24, 2021
    0
    Madden is dead. EA has shown for the last decade+ it’s not interested in improving anything core to gameplay or Franchise which made the old versions like 04, 05, 06 so much fun, despite their graphical shortcomings.

    Everything is just canned animations, stuttering & clunky cutscenes and replays, it’s filled with bugs and unfinished modes, micro transactions, horrific commentary,    Madden is dead. EA has shown for the last decade+ it’s not interested in improving anything core to gameplay or Franchise which made the old versions like 04, 05, 06 so much fun, despite their graphical shortcomings.

    Everything is just canned animations, stuttering & clunky cutscenes and replays, it’s filled with bugs and unfinished modes, micro transactions, horrific commentary, amateur looking assets like fans, sidelines, etc. straight out of the PS2/3 era, and a hollow Franchise mode…and it’s been like this for years. Once it went to 360 consoles and beyond, it never made the jump to what we all had hoped for, and games from almost 15+ years ago are still superior (NFL 2K5, Madden 05, NCAA 06, APF 2K8).

    Something like 100 features have been removed since those old versions and either sold back to us as "NEW" or replaced with trash like MUT (gambling), The Yard, Championship Series, Superstar KO, FotF that appeal to the lowest common denominator and children… Modes that rely entirely on outright addictive gambling mechanics to hook you that should really be in their own standalone title/mobile releases, but would never survive if they couldn’t ride the coattails of the "E" rated Madden "sim" game. Is it any surprise that all the unlockable trash is bright, patterned, neon, etc. like toys for little kids? They are preying on children with these modes, flat out.

    This is why nothing core to the game has improved beyond what EA has had to reluctantly address to keep the greater Madden community from rioting. Ultimate Team *is* EA Sports now. It's the cash cow. That is their core mechanic, not the actual game. Play Now and Franchise couldn’t be effectively monetized so they added new modes that could be, then sabotaged literally everything else.

    The real painstaking efforts this year were made to integrate ALL these modes so they tie into their MUT (gambling) & the paid upgrades. These funnels and purchase loops within each mode - complete with shiny colors, exciting animations, and just enough of a tease to get you into the ecosystem - are so unabashedly in your face it's a bit sickening.

    You are prompted at almost every menu change and update to open a pack or buy points or reminded that new gear is just a pack (or COIN$) away. The real irony is that these modes are also full of bugs, so much so that it's upsetting even the most hardcore MUT shills - the same ones that get free copies from EA so they can promote it on their YouTube to their young and impressionable audiences.

    These micro transactions have single handedly accelerated the demise of Madden and most sports games. It has eroded everything that once made these enjoyable. I wouldn’t mind much if these modes were in the game if the core, fundamental pieces were locked in, but they aren’t. Instead, EA continues to saturate Madden and their games with this bloatware hoping it’ll distract enough people so they don't notice that the foundation is beyond saving and that they are being scammed. Some of these modes could be fun, but they are so pathetically implemented, broken, cringe, and cobbled together it’s laughable. It's entirely obvious their sole purpose is to promote and hook you into MUT.

    I’d say maybe I’m just too old for the game now, but considering Madden has become a casino simulator for adults, I don't think so. Like so many fans I’m tired of this **** garbage they churn out year after year. Gone are the days of waiting in line at Gamestop with your friends at a midnight release out of pure excitement for a new game.

    What’s taken its place is a marketing blitz of hype and lip service from one of the most powerful, wealthiest AAA developers in the world. They flood the online space with paid reviews, free codes, and celeb endorsements with lockstep "this is the year!" propaganda. What is the NFL doing allowing their brand to be abused like this? What is EA doing with this exclusive license? No real effort goes into this yet they have billions in resources, TV licenses, music contacts, historical highlights/audio/rosters, countless broadcast teams, access to anyone anywhere, etc.

    We’re 30 years in and by this time it should be the gold standard of sports games development, testing, deployment, and features but it's has always felt like it's doing just enough to eek out another release. Like so many others, I just want to play a fun football game again that I don’t have to shut off because it’s completely broken, stale, soulless, or monetizes my every action within it.

    It’s become nothing but a byproduct of corporate greed, complete with all the progressive tropes injected into it that you’d expect. I’d be happy with literally any other studio picking up a football game at this point because Madden has run its course and NCAA will be no better.    … Expand
  2. Ben15Izzy
    Aug 23, 2021
    0
    DO NOT BUY, embarrassing from EA, Gameplay is the worst I’ve ever seen, players run around like they have no brain, players shift and warp through each other and the ground, offensive line Is rubbish and don’t know how to play football, less detail and modes than games from 15 years ago and I don’t see a single reason to buy this rubbish excuse for an NFL simulation video game. PLEASE EA,DO NOT BUY, embarrassing from EA, Gameplay is the worst I’ve ever seen, players run around like they have no brain, players shift and warp through each other and the ground, offensive line Is rubbish and don’t know how to play football, less detail and modes than games from 15 years ago and I don’t see a single reason to buy this rubbish excuse for an NFL simulation video game. PLEASE EA, stop making madden games.… Expand
  3. Unbiasedgamer23
    Aug 23, 2021
    4
    Madden NFL 22 can be fun at times but a lot of times it can be annoying or very boring. They added a lot to franchise but Personally I can’t help but be bored still even with those upgrades. Face of the Franchise is okay but not great. Defense doesn’t seem to have awareness as they let the ball fly over their heads no matter what. Ultimate Team is still a very fun mode with your friendsMadden NFL 22 can be fun at times but a lot of times it can be annoying or very boring. They added a lot to franchise but Personally I can’t help but be bored still even with those upgrades. Face of the Franchise is okay but not great. Defense doesn’t seem to have awareness as they let the ball fly over their heads no matter what. Ultimate Team is still a very fun mode with your friends but other than that Madden doesn’t have much to offer. I rate this game a 4/10… Expand
  4. Mg_55
    Aug 23, 2021
    0
    Lo peor de lo peor.
    Dejemos a un lado que es exactamente el mismo juego del año pasado, el juego simplemente es basura nada que salvar, los mismo errores de años y comportamiento tonto de los jugadores.
    Simplemente no
  5. Fiendsofthecity
    Aug 23, 2021
    8
    My impressions are based off of a solid chunk of hours with the trial and now going into my second franchise game with the MVP release.

    I'll start with this. From T.V Sports Football, to 4th and inches, to all of the Maddens, NCAAs, Joe Montanas, NFL Gameday series, NFL2ks, Qb Clubs, you name it, I've put massive hours into each and have had good and bad times with them all. That    My impressions are based off of a solid chunk of hours with the trial and now going into my second franchise game with the MVP release.

    I'll start with this. From T.V Sports Football, to 4th and inches, to all of the Maddens, NCAAs, Joe Montanas, NFL Gameday series, NFL2ks, Qb Clubs, you name it, I've put massive hours into each and have had good and bad times with them all.

    That said, Madden 22 is better than every single one.

    Pros and Cons as follows:

    1. Player movement and Interaction

    (Pros): Player weight has been reintroduced, which factors heavily into your strategy as you now have to anticipate what your opponent is going to do and think about your pursuit angles before you fully commit. You can easily find yourself ineffective if you over or under pursue (strafe button is there for a reason, use it).
    (Cons): Gang tackling still needs work, not sure what happened to the "clean up" tackles that were introduced in next gen 21, they seem to have completely disappeared along with many of the "add on" tackles.

    2. Graphics and Equipment

    (Pros): Not too much to be said here, its next gen, it looks simply amazing.
    (Cons): Proportions of some of the facemasks are still off. They either stick out too far, or are too close to the face. Another small pet peeve of mine is the lack of tredcal thigh pads, huge oversight in my opinion.

    3. Presentation

    (Pros): Swipes/Transitions look great and are more in line with television broadcast. Camera cuts to the players as they're warming up before games is a nice touch. As well as in between plays.
    (Cons): Really need a halftime show at this point. Also, the situations in franchise are decent, but its deathly quiet and I think we could use some type of voice actors for that or atleast some camera clicks/flashes and some type of voice ambience in the room. I'm using my imagination as to what I think its supposed to sound like as the coach is answering questions lol. Face of the Franchise presentation should no doubt be integrated into franchise mode for one grand mode.

    4. Gameplay

    (Pros): Teams appear to play to their strengths. Taller/faster WRs are DANGEROUS and the A.I. WILL USE them against you. If there's a mismatch, its getting exploited no doubt, you HAVE to game plan. This is the first Madden I've EVER seen this personally. I found myself keying in on one particular WR, like "ok mother@#$#, you're DONE, this stops NOW", dude was killing me lol. Running game and lineplay are more organic/visceral and tense, you can shoot through small gaps or get stuffed, and I'm seeing various yardage gains from 1, 2, 3, yards to big chunks, 8, 10 etc, it feels great.
    Cons: Keep working on that coverage. You'll still see the odd decision from defenders in man and zone coverage. Some you can attribute to a blown coverage but there are some that you can't.

    This is all I have off of the top of my head for now. I'm sure that I'm forgetting something so I'll come back with a few additions and edits. I'll also copy and paste portions of this in different threads or across the net when warranted.

    Also, is there a way I can refuse future updates, because I have a great slider set and I like the way the game is playing now.

    Loving this release. Bravo to the devs (and can I get my tredCALS in an update please and thanks a million).    … Expand
  6. aaroninho
    Aug 23, 2021
    0
    I’m not angry, I’m just sad. You know what, screw the new additions to franchise mode. I just want a game that doesn’t have release day glitches that make the game unplayable… I’m an offline franchise guy, simple as that. And now the game mode that I dearly love (the concept of it of course) is absolutely unplayable. Next-gen stats not working? Alright. Slow menus? Okay.. Playing 45I’m not angry, I’m just sad. You know what, screw the new additions to franchise mode. I just want a game that doesn’t have release day glitches that make the game unplayable… I’m an offline franchise guy, simple as that. And now the game mode that I dearly love (the concept of it of course) is absolutely unplayable. Next-gen stats not working? Alright. Slow menus? Okay.. Playing 45 minutes just to then have the score changed to zero for the home team because of a bug? F*** off… EA won’t care, sales are high enough for them not to.… Expand
  7. Canothegreat
    Aug 23, 2021
    0
    A new year another copy and paste. I tried real hard to like this game but there is no real game play once again. Just more micro transactions and yard crap I could care less about. I'd me happy to just play the online versus mode for 10 bucks.
  8. Dom007
    Aug 23, 2021
    0
    Why does EA exist? What purpose do they serve? Their one purpose is to keep releasing crap games in our faces and make a **** tonne of money in the process. They can't keep getting away with it. EA are one of the reasons the gaming industry is dying and leaning towards **** free to play rubbish aimed towards casuals.
  9. LastNameMoore
    Aug 22, 2021
    0
    The game is straight garbage. Imagine being able to keep your job after putting this product out yearly.
  10. dagansauceda
    Aug 22, 2021
    5
    Madden 21 on Xbox one was a major disappointment, and because of that, I was not going to buy madden 22. But since I got an Xbox series X, I decided to give next gen madden a chance. Below are things I like and dislike. Overall, the game is fine, but not all that special. I would say it is better than the past few iterations of madden, but certainly not where I feel it could be with a newMadden 21 on Xbox one was a major disappointment, and because of that, I was not going to buy madden 22. But since I got an Xbox series X, I decided to give next gen madden a chance. Below are things I like and dislike. Overall, the game is fine, but not all that special. I would say it is better than the past few iterations of madden, but certainly not where I feel it could be with a new engine and more creative development. Likes:
    1) The tackle and break tackle animations are newer and more realistic.
    2) More after play animations. Celebrating with the crowd after TD’s, fan cutscenes, sideline interaction when players run out of bounds, players picking up players after they get tackled.
    3) Overall graphical improvements.
    4) QB scrambling speed. In this madden, even a QB like Brady has just enough acceleration to evade a rusher and throw a quick pass. 5) Updates to franchise mode. Inclusion of offensive and defensive coordinators, more weekly strategy, halftime adjustments.
    6) Momentum factor.
    7) Improved pregame presentation. Dislikes:
    1) Animations completely dominate physics. Derrick Henry can still be driven backwards by a small corner due to a tackling animation. 2) Not enough face scans. I can understand COVID restrictions to an extent, but a company like EA should be able to have precautions in place to at least get most players a face scan.
    3) Create a player is the same. They added a few new faces, but they need to start adopting FIFA’s creating a player feature.
    4) Franchise is improved, but there is still tons of improvements that could be done.
    5) Terrible soundtrack. The last decent soundtrack was madden 18. The last good soundtrack was like madden 09.
    6) Same announcers since madden 17. It’s time for a change. Tony Romo and Al Michaels anyone? 7) Need a new broadcast. Pregame scenes are new and better, but it doesn’t feel like authentic professional football. Need a CBS, NBC, ESPN, or NFL network type broadcast.    … Expand
  11. Miles415
    Aug 22, 2021
    1
    On my first drive I was receiving a kick off. The other team was never placed on the field and the ball stayed on the tee. My team sprinted to the ball on the tee and it gave possession to the opposite team (who wasn’t on the field). I’ve been an active madden online franchise player for 4 years. I refused to buy this game it is so buggy and bad. EA needs to either pay the money to get aOn my first drive I was receiving a kick off. The other team was never placed on the field and the ball stayed on the tee. My team sprinted to the ball on the tee and it gave possession to the opposite team (who wasn’t on the field). I’ve been an active madden online franchise player for 4 years. I refused to buy this game it is so buggy and bad. EA needs to either pay the money to get a new team in there that is competent or give the game to 2K. You are running football games and reputation as a company more and more every year.… Expand
  12. Weskerfan
    Aug 22, 2021
    0
    Holy horrible!!! There's so many glitches in this game!!! Some are glitches that were in last years Madden (can someone say copy and paste?). The soccer ball glitch is back. I mean it's nice if you wanted to play FIFA instead of picking up the fumbled football to take it to the house for a TD. There's also the new untackleable player glitch. There's the ghost that trips you up glitch.Holy horrible!!! There's so many glitches in this game!!! Some are glitches that were in last years Madden (can someone say copy and paste?). The soccer ball glitch is back. I mean it's nice if you wanted to play FIFA instead of picking up the fumbled football to take it to the house for a TD. There's also the new untackleable player glitch. There's the ghost that trips you up glitch. There's so many glitches that I can't name them all right here. This game is a total embarrassment to the NFL shield, an embarrassment to the NFL players, and an embarrassment to it's fans… Expand
  13. iSmoke
    Aug 22, 2021
    1
    Trash , not realistic , players still go through other players , every pass is a TD(zone) , every hit stick is a fumble , no money spent MUT is trash this year (so far) , can only pick 2 plays all the rest are garbage, game crashes periodically

    Here is the list of positives however !
    No load times (not EA’S doing)
  14. santwanthomas
    Aug 22, 2021
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. the least negative thing that can be said is that it’s at the quality that i expected madden 21 to be… Expand
  15. Dhall573
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    This game is horrible and i getting a refund now. This game is not great and EA needs to let 2k take over. I will start a protest or petition about this smh.
  16. ColtraneIII
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    This has to be one of the worst sports game I have ever played. On series X, theres constant crashes in franchise mode, there's numerous gameplay glitches and technical issues which make the gameplay horrific. The AI and animation based gameplay gives us something that is far from simulation gameplay when we see such faulty defensive AI logic. Theres a number of legacy issues such asThis has to be one of the worst sports game I have ever played. On series X, theres constant crashes in franchise mode, there's numerous gameplay glitches and technical issues which make the gameplay horrific. The AI and animation based gameplay gives us something that is far from simulation gameplay when we see such faulty defensive AI logic. Theres a number of legacy issues such as missing editable player traits such as keep feet in bounds and dropped pass traits which means any pass catchers coming through the draft lack the ability to make sideline catches. The glitches like missing kick meters, invisible plays during play selection, etc. make the game unplayable. If CD Projekt Red had to give out refunds for Cyberpunk, then EA Sports should so the same with Madden 22. Its that bad.… Expand
  17. Czach2112
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    There are way to many bugs. Its like the developers never play the game before it comes out. NFL should be ashamed they let EA do this to the community. Plus you had 1 year to put out the new scouting system and you cant even do that at launch.
  18. SIPPIO
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    I honestly don't know what to say anymore about EA..
    Google this name "Ian Cummings"..
    He was the lead developer for EA/Tiburon during the Golden Era of Madden all the way until EA bounced him for wanting franchise to have impact.. ~This years Next Gen is NOT the same quality we got when we went from PS1~to~PS2.. it's more in-line with Xbxo360 to XboxOne & ps3~to~PS4.. I would feel    I honestly don't know what to say anymore about EA..
    Google this name "Ian Cummings"..
    He was the lead developer for EA/Tiburon during the Golden Era of Madden
    all the way until EA bounced him for wanting franchise to have impact..

    ~This years Next Gen is NOT the same quality we got
    when we went from PS1~to~PS2.. it's more in-line with Xbxo360 to XboxOne &
    ps3~to~PS4.. I would feel bad for the current gen Madden fans who
    pre ordered only to find the game really struggling..
    But then again PRE-ORDERS are what's ruined Madden and why they release without features..
    Stop pre ordering and you wont get burned!!!
    If you woulda waited 1 day you woulda seen the ocmplaints about players invisible..
    Leading the Reciever is still mediocre and not even as good as 2008..

    Im not gonna list my laundry list, instead i'll remind everyone
    that EA paid 7 BILLION for 6 years ofl exclusivity..
    Think about that......
    *Then think about how much money they make on the Whales in Ultimate Team.
    And this is why Franchise is still mediocre dispite EA bragging how
    "franchise mode is back".. Yeah owkay!!
    This new layout is just weird and i honestly don't know how it got approved..
    **The NFL ignored the 200,000 protesting fans dead set against EA exlusivity.
    Why don't the NFL realize that if Madden and a 2K game becomes popular this only means
    The NFL becomes more popular.. Madden hasn't ever seen numbers close to 2000-2008..
    I don't know the numbers i do know the populairty and todays lack of and how epic it was back n the day.
    And even then it was stale. But atleast we had a free in-game card game to play with in-game coins..
    ***The biggest joke is the cards in MUT don't carry over.. this confuses me why players vcalue it at
    all...
    Thank god i was able to play this for free for 5 hours..
    Yet Again year after year im forced to go back to older Maddens.
    NHL is messy too but 100X's better then Madden. and this was the exact opposite back n day..
    And im barley into hockey....
    Demand better everyone!!!    … Expand
  19. chrisgisler
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    No improvement on the ps5. Pay to play on MUT. No new innovation on MUT. Cash grab for EA.
  20. Bngstew
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    I made a metacritic account just to post this. Do not buy this game it’s terrible. The tackling is broken the play while the ball is in the air makes no sense. They kinda fixed the play style as individual teams go. But I honestly thing that’s the only game play improvement. The game is so beyond frustrating. WR don’t make any attempts for the ball. Blocking is terrible especially leadI made a metacritic account just to post this. Do not buy this game it’s terrible. The tackling is broken the play while the ball is in the air makes no sense. They kinda fixed the play style as individual teams go. But I honestly thing that’s the only game play improvement. The game is so beyond frustrating. WR don’t make any attempts for the ball. Blocking is terrible especially lead blocking the on edge. Do not buy this game.… Expand
  21. Jrstocker86
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    As a big Franchise mode player in all sports games, I was foolish enough to get my hopes up for this year's Madden. EA had committed to revamping and improving Franchise mode after years and years of ignoring the mode entirely. I was at the very least hoping for a step in theright direction. Upon starting my new Franchise mode however, it took very little time to realize that EA greatlyAs a big Franchise mode player in all sports games, I was foolish enough to get my hopes up for this year's Madden. EA had committed to revamping and improving Franchise mode after years and years of ignoring the mode entirely. I was at the very least hoping for a step in theright direction. Upon starting my new Franchise mode however, it took very little time to realize that EA greatly exaggerated the "amazing" new features. Franchise mode has a new layout, which essentially just moves last years layout around and paints over it with different colors. Then they added the highly touted Coaching trees adding OC and DC as well as a generic personnel department positions. They are not actual NFL OC and DC names or likenesses and EA didn't add any way to edit these things, which to me seems just lazy and overlooked. When you actually look at the talent tree you will find tons of holdovers from the previous editions of Madden coaching upgrades.Granted there are many new ones. The only issue is there is really no tangible evidence or reward for unlocking these talents and upgrades. A 4% increase in draft pick trade value? Is that even remotely worthwhile with the completely broken trade logic Madden has had (and continues to have in this edition) for years? Then you have the season moments and cutaway scenes which look like they are taken straight out of a PS3/Xbox 360 build and again, have no real impact other than minor stat boosts or dev trait boosts. When you watch these cut scenes, it is absolutely infuriating to see how terrible and broken they look. This company makes billions off of these games yearly and this is what they can provide with all of that money? Disgusting. Contracts and Salary cap are still completely unrealistic and broken. The draft is copy past job from the last few years. Moving past that, well no. There is nothing after that. Yep. That's the grand Franchise refresh as of release day. Don't forget though, Scouting system refresh is coming in a month or two. That would be comforting if anything else in this game had actually significantly changed. Face of the Franchise I just can't even really describe in detail. It is simply the worst story mode in any sports game by a large margin. Laughably bad. MUT is copy and paste job, same with Superstar KO and The Yard. The Yard is still absolutely pointless and only rewards you with meaningless apparel for the equally meaningless avatar you create when you first load the game up. Moving us to gameplay. Players make more realistic cuts, and they have added some new animations to smooth different things up. That said, players still run very unrealistically, example I caught a pass with Gronk and his legs were moving faster than any human being is capable of, and this went against his actual movement on the field. Imagine walking up the wrong side of an escalator. Sadly this was not the only example of this. I'd like to say it was a glitch but it happens often enough that I believe EA just didn't care enough to make it look more realistic. Blocking is still hopelessly broken. 0 improvements. Don't expect to run Zone heavy defensive schemes unless you want to get burned every down because as always, Zone logic is still broken. Players still miraculously move 5-10 yards to make tackles or Interceptions. Stat cast is still entirely pointless just throwing out random useless play stats. Yes. Thank you for telling me that was an 80 Yard TD. There is no other way to know that without stat cast Madden. Players still roam aimlessly during plays when not user controlled. There simply is not much to praise here. Wrapping this up.... This would be an OK game if EA had said "Hey, the game is broken in many areas, we are going to rebuild everything over the next few years and give you guys a roster update and small improvements every year for the next couple years for a discounted price". Instead they lie to players everywhere by saying they are adding all these groundbreaking features which either A. contribute next to nothing in depth or gameplay impact, or B. Are taken from decades older titles or copied from other sports titles with poor execution. I don't want to hate Madden. I want more than anything for EA to release an amazing Football game. I have for nearly a decade now. But every year they seem to make the game worse with unfulfilled promises and general carelessness with little to no attention to detail. If EA had any integrity they would end there simulation exclusivity contract and allow others to compete. They have shown time and again they are incapable of giving a realistic simulation style football game. My biggest worry now is how broken the next NCAA Football game will be in a couple years. With how they treat Madden currently, that's a scary thought.… Expand
  22. Girottomt
    Aug 21, 2021
    1
    The gameplay is terrible. No attention to The details. The game is animation dependent and the animations are terribles. They kind improve The franchise mode, but they still don't adjust easy things like contracts lenght and trade systen.
  23. Blades935
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. BROKEN, actually that's not a spoiler as it's been like that for years now.

    Rehash, not a spoiler again sorry. Same game as last year.

    EA are disrespectful of the fans, the players and the whole community.    … Expand
  24. 1999john420
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Unrealistic football trash game it not even worth what they want for it.....
  25. drinksandstream
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Never have I seen such a buggy video game, even by EA Sports Madden's standards, launch, especially a few weeks later than it has sometimes released.

    Franchise Mode is still bare bones, and many of the new features are incomplete, plagued by bugs, or create more issues than before. It's controversial, but I honestly think Madden 21's franchise mode is somehow better, at least without    Never have I seen such a buggy video game, even by EA Sports Madden's standards, launch, especially a few weeks later than it has sometimes released.

    Franchise Mode is still bare bones, and many of the new features are incomplete, plagued by bugs, or create more issues than before. It's controversial, but I honestly think Madden 21's franchise mode is somehow better, at least without the September scouting update.

    Staffing Tree -- This is "a good start," but when there has been so little done to this mode in so long, I'm not interested in handing out participation points here. No real coordinators despite the exclusive NFL license and billions in revenue. Many of the things you can spend points on are tailored to offline franchise only. My largest problem here, however, is the offseason. Hiring/firing is not very competitive between teams. You cannot see the full pool of who's available to hire at any point in the offseason. I have no idea how this will work in CFM, since you just "hit A" to hire someone, and it seems to be first come, first served. I won the Super Bowl back to back years and had maxed out coordinators and somehow neither got hired by other teams as a head coach, either, so we now have another mode with poor AI logic when it comes to managing teams.

    Momentum -- This is the coolest addition to me and one that has the most potential. However, at least in franchise mode, the momentum swings seem to be very random and in many cases broken.
    I have on multiple occasions converted 3rd downs late in the game in enemy territory to inexplicably see my opponent gain momentum.

    Updated scenario engine: The cinematic scenes added to franchise mode are maybe the worst I've ever seen from a developer of this size. The beta was absolutely atrocious, and they clearly scrambled to start over with some. Maybe this will improve next year, but as for now there's inexplicable bugs like a cell phone floating in and out of a coaches hand, no nameplates on players that wouldn't be wearing their actual jerseys in the locker room in the first place, etc. Really, a lot of the work they put into face of the franchise should've been borrowed or put to better use in franchise mode. Lastly, many of the new scenarios already feel redundant 4 days after early release. I don't want to talk about the weather 4 times a year with 5 of my best players and some randoms in the locker room, especially when EA has done zero to make the weather more dynamic. It either rains or doesn't, snows or doesn't. It never tapers off at halftime or picks up. Battlefield 2042 is introducing tornados in the middle of massive battles and Madden can't even figure out how to add different intensity levels of snow, rain, and wind? How playing in the heat could have an affect on players?

    Gameplanning -- This is probably the ONLY thing I think Madden has mostly right in franchise as far as new additions. However, the halftime adjustments you can make have the same power as what you gameplanned for the week, which doesn't strike the correct balance. Fatigue also doesn't seem to affect any players not touching the ball during gameplay, an obviously major oversight.

    Ultimate Team -- I often hear people say Madden's team only cares about MUT, but if that were true, they'd actually improve this mode. Despite the computing power of next gen consoles, there's still terrible load times, and way too many barriers navigating your sets, collection, and packs. A prime example is the 21 gold team packs that come with the Dynasty Edition...you have to individually select the gold team pack each time, then go to your team of choice (have fun if your team is not one of the first few), and then start the process all over again. Adding cards to sets is somehow still not something you can multi-select, so time is lost on that. The auction house is still the same buildout as when MUT was launched years ago. If I wasn't well-versed in Madden, you would have a hard time convincing me this mode makes anywhere near as much money as it does. I will say the two positives are: they finally added player stats (which are currently an issue they're working out), and the home navigation is nice with missions broken out and overall, more aesthetically pleasing menu screens...but these are small improvements when large ones are left undone.

    Presentation -- EA championed the new pre-game presentation, super fans, and more in trailers, but this all falls very short. There are some minor details to like, like in bad weather fans have ponchos, but like everything else, fans are glitchy as well, often holding the wrong team's signs. The graphics of these fans looks very unpolished, like PS2 graphics honestly.    … Expand
  26. Mkrd
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Worst Madden game ever created deleted before my 10 hour trial was even halfway complete.
  27. Boat69
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Madden has been on a spiraling doom for years. It's clear that EA saw this, said they were gonna make changes, and lied. The only thing that is different is franchise mode, yet it's so bland and crowded that it drives out the fun. In my opinion the first 2 longshot stories and the past 2 face of the franchise modes were better than this years face of the franchise mode.The fof mode makes you want to skip every scene because of how bland it is. Every year I expect nothing yet I am still disappointed.… Expand
  28. base_d
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Anyone writing a good review for this game is either an EA shill or a little tardy. Save your money people and do not buy this.
  29. RonL1ve24
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Literally the same game from the past few years, just a roster update. Same animations, same glitches, same dumb AI logic. Franchise mode is embarrassing. And whatever that other game mode is called, the one that nobody asked for, is so cringy and uninteresting. It’s sickening that EA is the only company allowed to make an NFL simulation game. I feel sorry for the people who continue toLiterally the same game from the past few years, just a roster update. Same animations, same glitches, same dumb AI logic. Franchise mode is embarrassing. And whatever that other game mode is called, the one that nobody asked for, is so cringy and uninteresting. It’s sickening that EA is the only company allowed to make an NFL simulation game. I feel sorry for the people who continue to buy this garbage year after year… Expand
  30. NateD13
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    I was actually looking forward to this year and that’s where the good news ends. They promised a lot of things and delivered it in fractions for example, when they were talking about Presentation I was assuming there would be multiple announcers and broadcast networks maybe a pregame or half time show but we got none of that. The only thing they did was change the intros that show theI was actually looking forward to this year and that’s where the good news ends. They promised a lot of things and delivered it in fractions for example, when they were talking about Presentation I was assuming there would be multiple announcers and broadcast networks maybe a pregame or half time show but we got none of that. The only thing they did was change the intros that show the players getting ready for the game and from what I’ve seen there isn’t many different intros you can get. Player likeness is terrible and all of the new coaches are running on default faces even on launch day which reminds me that they said there was going to be a ton of new faces for all the players that they don’t have face scans for because only 10% of all players in the game actually have a face scan and they gave us like 5 new faces for every skin tone. The faces in the game are straight out of my nightmares if you don’t believe me look at Kamren Curl and ask yourself if that looks like it’s on next gen and the sad thing is that there are other players with even bigger names with heads like that. Some players have two different skin tones between their face and body and of course no one has their tattoos but 2k and EA’s other trash game UFC has tats for everyone. Guess how many players out of this years draft got scanned because the answer is 6 but that’s probably cause the other 200 didn’t wanna be apart of this train wreck. I can’t believe they seriously used them adding assistant coaches as a feature to promote their game, they should’ve also told you that the assistant coaches ARE NOT REAL coaches. Franchise was another thing they promised change to but besides the menu there is really not much that was done and we have to wait till next month to get the next update to it. I paid 20 bucks extra to play the game early but of course the game isn’t even finished, surprise! The game still doesn’t play like real football because the AI and animations are still what ultimately makes the game unplayable if you are not 10 years old. When I saw Mahomes getting carried by his Oline in the trailer I thought that we’re finally getting cool celebrations for a game ending score and the answer is no, every time you enter the end zone your player does the same animation of raising one of his arms until you click a corny dance. I hate the fact I’m about to compliment 2k but EA leaves me no option because when you hit either a late game shot or a buzzer beater you will watch every player on the court experiencing different emotions and reacting how you would expect which is miles beyond what EA has done. Instead of watching your team go crazy over a timely play you are gifted the same animations as if you scored when your team was down by 50 and if your lucky you will get to see your team do the same dab on the sideline for probably the 2nd time that game. It’s hard to have fun playing a game when your team on the field has the same amount of enthusiasm as EA has effort when it comes to making a simulation Football game.… Expand
  31. Muchosguatavo
    Aug 21, 2021
    0
    Same game as last year, which was dreadful, don't let EA steal your money with this scam
  32. Shafe-n-bake
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    I’ve played every madden since 2005, this is the worst one yet. Most of the bugs game breaking or not have been in the game for years. Franchise got an upgrade but it’s still not what it used to be, and none of that matters when the gameplay is wack. AI doesn’t seem to understand football, and when you lose half the time it seems like you’re cheated. The AI has to teleport and the game hasI’ve played every madden since 2005, this is the worst one yet. Most of the bugs game breaking or not have been in the game for years. Franchise got an upgrade but it’s still not what it used to be, and none of that matters when the gameplay is wack. AI doesn’t seem to understand football, and when you lose half the time it seems like you’re cheated. The AI has to teleport and the game has to constantly make you fumble to keep games close. They can’t design an AI or game good enough to actually stop anyone. Defensive plays are broken, players slide 3-5 yards to intercept a pass even when you have the defender burned. Injuries seem thrown in just for “dynamic” gameplay. Rarely does a player actually involved in a play get hurt. Almost all players play the same, teams can’t recognize when you pick one play over and over again, run heavy teams don’t play run heavy. Year after year it seems like they copy and paste madden. Please EA S*** or get off the pot. Make a good simulation football game or give up the exclusive rights and let someone else try.… Expand
  33. Bowie8888
    Aug 20, 2021
    1
    Full of glitches. No polish whatsoever. Very disappointing to have such a poor game from what is supposed to be the fold standard in sports games.
  34. hhrjmoore1
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    It's the same exact game as last year. With all the promises that they said would be in franchise. It's a joke. Why is everything so pre determined. The animations are awful. Need a physics based game. It hell just let 2k make it with the all pro 2k8 engine and make the graphics prettier. At least the game would be playable then.
  35. Drew1985
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Game is so bad. It’s exactly the same as Madden 21. It’s amazing how EA sports continues to put out this trash. Crashing, glitching, every other pass is an INT. Just a horrible game. I hope EA goes out of business.
  36. Lx49
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Great graphics for a low grade arcade game the issue is madden is advertising this as an simulation football game which let's be clear the game is nowhere near what you see on game day in the NFL. 2k5 is still where simulation football is at
  37. StoveTopp
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    This is the worst video game series ever. The developers should be prosecuted for releasing the same glitchy unrealistic football game every year. EA should die. Soon.
  38. metasupra2344
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Same game different cover. This game has not improved since they switched over to the Frostbite engine. There are more bugs than the entire cast of A Bug's Life. Gameplay is animation based so the events through a game are scripted. This game really should be a free-to-play game since they make most of their money through MUT (Madden Ultimate Team) anyways.

    EA really doesn't care about    Same game different cover. This game has not improved since they switched over to the Frostbite engine. There are more bugs than the entire cast of A Bug's Life. Gameplay is animation based so the events through a game are scripted. This game really should be a free-to-play game since they make most of their money through MUT (Madden Ultimate Team) anyways.

    EA really doesn't care about the football community. The NFL also needs to be help accountable for exclusively licensing their brand to this company.    … Expand
  39. scottfree67
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    If you hate yourself then this game is for you. If you are a fan of football/ NFL stay away from this game.
    You honestly don’t need to have any football knowledge to play this game..The last good Madden game to me was 05. I will say graphics look good on my series X. This game is basically a cash grab. It’s turning into Fornite of sports games.
  40. DeweyChild
    Aug 20, 2021
    6
    I feel like people hate on this game just because Little Timmy did on Twitter. This game definitely has issues like bugs and a overall very little new things. But with Madden having very fun base foundation and EA adding things to franchise in the coming future things are looking good.
  41. Kevin120
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Listen to your fans for once. An embarrassment to the gaming community. Literal gambling for children and it costs full price.
  42. ApacheHeli
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Literally the same game as the last 10 games, micro-transactions, loot boxes, this is mobile mechanics, EA could care less about the consumers. They just want to promote gambling.
  43. Joelrudey
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Same thing year after year. Madden has turned into nothing but a pretty skin to get people spending in Ultimate Team. Every loading screen entices you to buy, the game manipulates you into JIST losing so you are more apt to spend money, etc. Game should be outlawed for enticing child gambling
  44. officialtk53
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Welcome to "Lack of Innovation" Central. Try way harder next time. Please, EA.
  45. jskulsky08
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    The fact that in franchise mode, we still see a glimpse of the old UI with the coach sitting at his desk by the computer tells us all we need to know about this game and the developers. How does one not notice this during all of the testing that takes place? This isn’t even mentioning the broken game mode of Face of the Franchise, the broken AI defenders, or just overall bugs present. FromThe fact that in franchise mode, we still see a glimpse of the old UI with the coach sitting at his desk by the computer tells us all we need to know about this game and the developers. How does one not notice this during all of the testing that takes place? This isn’t even mentioning the broken game mode of Face of the Franchise, the broken AI defenders, or just overall bugs present. From a multi-billion dollar company, this is unacceptable. We can’t even get referees on the field but upon launching the game we are always greeted with ads for either MUT packs or cosmetic items for The Yard. This game is an all-time low for Madden and football fans deserve better. This is nowhere even close to an authentic simulation football game.… Expand
  46. braineclipse
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    It the same game do not buy the improvement are not big at all. they put where you can do all your coaches now. WOW!!!!!!!! That was in madden 10. GJ EA got almost a billion last year you did so much work. this is just another copy and paste.
  47. jedisnake77
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    To start off, rarely any game deserves a 0. However, this game is quite possibly one of the most deserving to receive a 0 in a long time. THE GOOD: Graphics, like any EA game, are phenomenal. The game is always running at least 60 frames on next generation now which was much needed. The game is beautiful, so props on that. Most of the faces in game are also much better than they were lastTo start off, rarely any game deserves a 0. However, this game is quite possibly one of the most deserving to receive a 0 in a long time. THE GOOD: Graphics, like any EA game, are phenomenal. The game is always running at least 60 frames on next generation now which was much needed. The game is beautiful, so props on that. Most of the faces in game are also much better than they were last year ( ea can actually render faces now post covid ). I am seriously trying to think of more positives to this game. Here is why I refuse to give it any more credit. We as consumers are now spendiner 70$ of are hard earned money in this inflated economy. People are busting their butts to make means, and out of the love for the game of football, use their hard earned money on this game. Now, for the bad. THE BAD: I REFUSE to give this game any credit for the features that have been added. 70$ for some slight franchise tweaks ( which really are not very impressive at all ), and a momentum scale is probably the most theft have ever seen in history. I cannot believe that after all of the hate and negative that has come about in the community the past year, we are still getting the exact same game. Same dialogue, same ARCADE LIKE gameplay, etc. I am sick and tired of EA giving us useless game modes such as the yard, that nobody plays. I am no game developer, but it seriously cannot be that hard to create a fun and realistic simulation of football in the year 2021. 2k has had their basketball running d year out for the past 4 years. Why is a multi billion dollar company with the liscene to the NFL still struggling to create a realistic football game. The safeties are genuinely brain dead. If a safety were to let Decante Adams run down the field , instead of picking him up like any normal safety would do, they would be cut ON SIGHT. So why does this happen in this game??? Axis football, a game made by like 3 people, has figured out how to properly code players. So why is EA still letting the ai be completely brain dead???? There is no such thing as skill on the defense, as every single Aj player is so stupid and doesn’t understand football logic. Zone plays consist of ai sitting in their bubble, leaving players wide open. Man to man, when the ball is thrown, the man who is covering the receiver stutters for a second, allowing a wide open completion on what probably was lock down defense before hand. Cornerbacks who are beaten on routes have animations that teleport them forward to swat the ball down. The tackling in this game is horrendous. Gang tackles rarely exist. If more than two players are tackling the ball carrier, the other players attempting to make the tackle will run into eachother in a clumped mess as if they have potatoes for hearts. There is so many problems with this game and I have barely ever started writing this. Franchise mode was promised to have massive chang3 this year. So how come the user interface layout from last year is secretly running in the background? There is clips on YouTube of last years ui appearing for split seconds, showing that the game is having to run row ui’s at ounce. No wonder this game takes so long to load on next gen! Draft logic is still trash. The drafts are devoid of any talent, so unless you manually go and give hundreds of players star development, your league will be full of terrible teams within just years. The tweets that appear talk about events that transpired years ago. Please tell me how this is worth 70$.

    I’d be able to overlook the hundreds of glitches and issues with this game, if they would just fix the awful gameplay. But year in and year out, it is the exact same experience on the field. You can add all these little gimmicks, but until the actual gameplay is fixed, this game will keep getting slandered. All these reasons and more is why this game deserves a 0/10. Any game that was nearly exactky the same as the last, and is charging 70$, deserves an automatic 0.    … Expand
  48. MayniaC
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    How many times do the consumers have to say this game is not good? How many bad reviews? This game is for the casual video game player or casual football fan who just like seeing the likeness of teams and players. Here’s the problems:

    - Madden doesn’t even capture the true likeness of players. Player scans are spotty and they have blamed COVID in this age of technology for the lack of    How many times do the consumers have to say this game is not good? How many bad reviews? This game is for the casual video game player or casual football fan who just like seeing the likeness of teams and players. Here’s the problems:

    - Madden doesn’t even capture the true likeness of players. Player scans are spotty and they have blamed COVID in this age of technology for the lack of visual detailed improvement of the game. This is a simulation style football game, but the player likeness has yet to improve over the span of almost a decade.. it’s 2021 EA and this is not in the game?

    - User interface, it’s just new color schemes and small little graphical design changes but nothing scream, we are being innovative each year. All of the modes look the same as Madden 21. Yea they “changed” franchise modes look but at this point it’s copy and paste with sprinkles on top, nothing they promised for the franchise community, they failed on that aspect.

    - What is the point of the Yard and Superstar KO? Those are arcade style games.. it’s fine to have these in a simulation football game but where is the true simulation football at? it all plays the same! (I’ll have a separate section for simulation) No one cares to earn “gear” which is generic in nature and pointless level up perks that equate nothing.

    - Face of the Franchise.. they finally connected that player to The Yard.. but they gotta stop making this mode… it’s a waste of time, graphics and space on my XBSX.

    - This is supposed to be simulation style football. I have a hunch that a lot of the things that go on in this “simulation football” video game from play-calling to player movement do not translate to the real life game. They falsely advertise Next Gen Stats.. you all should go and read the description for Next Gen Stats and tell me if it’s in the game.. pun-intended.

    Overall, this is poor execution of a sports video game and EA has shown a trend of this. NBA Live has obviously failed and Madden’s lack of detail and laziness is showing their downfall. Sure, from a money perspective, the numbers will look great for EA because they are the only simulation football market.. the fact that John Madden and his camp has his name associated with a bad, mediocre product when he was a legendary head coach in the NFL looks very very bad.    … Expand
  49. MaximumD
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Is anyone surprised at this point. The "new" coaching tree is just a reshuffled version of the previous xp system, except now you've got a few more coaches to "upgrade". LOL. How does that even make sense? The coaches in the NFL are already top level, who is upgrading at this point? LOL.

    Still nothing to do off the field although they made an attempt to freshen things up with the weekly    Is anyone surprised at this point. The "new" coaching tree is just a reshuffled version of the previous xp system, except now you've got a few more coaches to "upgrade". LOL. How does that even make sense? The coaches in the NFL are already top level, who is upgrading at this point? LOL.

    Still nothing to do off the field although they made an attempt to freshen things up with the weekly strategy stuff. Doesn't matter what you do, the game plays the same everytime. Whatever boosts you get or don't get, whatever, it doesn't matter on the field. Just use "Shallow Y Cross" play and win win win baby! Or just run up the middle and watch the moronic DL get sucked into blocking animations as you prance by. Otherwise they will somehow warp over to you and make a tackle like they invented teleportation. LOL! What a train wreck. On defense, you will get no pash rush as usuall unless you take control of a lineman yourself. The rest of the team just gets tied up in block animations. Doesn't matter if you have all 99 rated pash rushers. They can't even beat a 70 rated OL, and they can't stop the run ever. On the flip side, the cpu never seems to have that problem, as their x factor DT will blow up the center on every run play you try. It's comical at this point. It's more like NFL Blitz than an actual football simulation. Running backs still can't cut properly and they still do that semi truck like turn right into an unblocked Linebacker. My god, it's bad and it's not getting better. Not that EA cares, cuz they are making mega money of gambling addicted teens you are jacking up their parents credit cards every month for that diamond whoever superstar.

    Furthermore, nothing you do in this game matters. I can easily win with a 65 rated QB and a trash OL. None of the ratings matter since everything is predetermined by canned animations. I have 75 rated WR making unbelievable 1 handed catches without a problem. The X factors at this point are tired too. They don't seem to affect the game too much. The strategy boosts you get during the weekly practices are hardly noticeable. Just another "new" shallow game mechanic. The "new" scouting that is coming is just ripped from NHL. Man, what can you say? This game exists for Ultimate team players and that's it.

    The last good Maddens that came out were 10 and 12. That's how long this game has sucked now. What a disgrace. Can we get a damn football game please? Look at how much 2k packs into their basketball game. I'm not saying that game is perfect, but it does have a ton of features that should be standard in sports games.    … Expand
  50. c9jedi
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    I'll start this review by saying Madden needs to stop yearly releases. It's clear by this point every yearly release is nothing more than a reskin, bug fixes, and minor updates. In the year 2021 games have thrown out this archaic model for a one time purchase with monthly updates. There is no reason why Madden cannot release updates on a month to month or year to year basis other thanI'll start this review by saying Madden needs to stop yearly releases. It's clear by this point every yearly release is nothing more than a reskin, bug fixes, and minor updates. In the year 2021 games have thrown out this archaic model for a one time purchase with monthly updates. There is no reason why Madden cannot release updates on a month to month or year to year basis other than greed. Greed will catch up to EA.

    Gameplay: Next-gen players will have a "new" home field advantage bar as well as live play calling for CPU teams. Older generations and PC players are stuck with a reskinned Madden 21. While playing about 5 games I could tell absolutely nothing has been done to address blocking or lack there of. Too many instances I would see a lineman blocking air or even hilariously fall down on his own and still attempt a block animation on his back. Like a turtle. Safeties will let WRs run right in front of them because zone boundaries take precedent over letting Tyreke Hill do what he wants. Cpu will still mess up every 2 minute offense by calling unnecessary time-outs and forgetting to kick the field goal. Because of the lack of updates to older generations and lack of bug fixes gameplay receives 2/10

    Franchise mode: An emphasis was placed on franchise mode as it's the core mode in Madden since its inception. Unfortunately the new scouting mechanic is not available at launch. The "new" coaching skill tree was a fan favorite from NCAA series and returns to Madden. The coaches progression feel so underwhelming that I guarantee you will not see a difference in gameplay or resigning players making this feature a wash. The Superbowl presentation is pretty much the same with the half-time of the superbowl being a laughably horrid dialog tree. Simulation stats gave a buff to RB stats to mirror the usage they receive in real life. Although every year has a RB as the MVP. Lastly free agency was as bad as ever in Madden 21. Where the top prized free agents wouldn't receive a single bid allowing you to sign the services of Devante Adams and Jaire Alexander for pennies on the dollar. Madden 22 band-aids this issue by giving teams unrealistic salary caps allowing for more bidding. This band-aid is ripped off a few years in as the cpu is not programmed to manage thier salaries efficiently. Franchise mode has taken a step in the right direction but it still has a long road ahead 4/10.

    Face of the Franchuse: This is by an large the worst mode ever conceived in Madden. It feels rushed, buggy, and down right putrid. Players not rendering in drills. Players feet glitches into the field. Unrealistic dialog. There is once again no emphasis on the scouting combine.And if you're selected by the Jaguars with the #1 pick they still have Trevor Lawrence? How? I would rather watch people falling off the side of a plane on an endless loop than play this game mode again. 0/10.

    MUT: If you we're hoping for any changes in MUT you will be frustratingly upset to find there are zero changes to the mode other than the team you worked so hard to assemble from Madden 21 is gone. They have nerfed solo challenges yet again to combat bot accounts. This turns MUT from pay-to-win to pay-to-play. The money generated by the MUT community is the only thing keeping EA afloat. MUT should be it's own standalone free to download experience and reset every season much like other modern card based games. 0/10.

    The Yard: Reviewing this mode is not even worth the character count. 0/10.

    Online: I personally never have connection issues. The only way I could see improvement is in match making. Introduce a ladder system with tiers like every other modern multi-player game. Have bronze match with bronze and diamond match with diamond. 6/10.    … Expand
  51. Browntk1
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Same game as the past 3 years. Glitches galore, missing features in franchise mode, and player clipping is at an all time high. Physics continue to be unrealistic. I had a batted ball that had more velocity on it than the actual throw from my QB. The ball teleported 15 yards to the left after being “batted down” and into another defenders hands. The game is broken - Don’t buy it. It’sSame game as the past 3 years. Glitches galore, missing features in franchise mode, and player clipping is at an all time high. Physics continue to be unrealistic. I had a batted ball that had more velocity on it than the actual throw from my QB. The ball teleported 15 yards to the left after being “batted down” and into another defenders hands. The game is broken - Don’t buy it. It’s trash. Force EA to put a better product on the shelves.… Expand
  52. Crez
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    Played the game trial through Xbox Gamepass on the Series X... It's so clunky and buggy, I experienced defensive linemen going through my blockers as though they weren't really there. Players not registering the ball being thrown at them, so it just bounces off their chest. As a football fan, I wish that the NFL would allow other companies make video games of their product. That way,Played the game trial through Xbox Gamepass on the Series X... It's so clunky and buggy, I experienced defensive linemen going through my blockers as though they weren't really there. Players not registering the ball being thrown at them, so it just bounces off their chest. As a football fan, I wish that the NFL would allow other companies make video games of their product. That way, people who want a better experience than Madden can play something else.… Expand
  53. grady2k12
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    I've never given a game a 0 before but this one is inexcusable. It runs extremely slow. How is this game optimized? The loading screen and menus run like a PS1 game. EA Sports is trash and I won't be burned again by them.
  54. Charliebruh06
    Aug 20, 2021
    2
    This game is incomplete and doesn’t not simulate football. Gameplay is so bad that it becomes a who can exploit the game more by using glitch plays against poor AI rather than good competitive fun. The animations has no fluidity specially tackling animations. The gap between this sports franchise and others such as 2k and mlb the show is so lopsided where these franchises provides so muchThis game is incomplete and doesn’t not simulate football. Gameplay is so bad that it becomes a who can exploit the game more by using glitch plays against poor AI rather than good competitive fun. The animations has no fluidity specially tackling animations. The gap between this sports franchise and others such as 2k and mlb the show is so lopsided where these franchises provides so much more for their users where it’s not even close. I hope the more authentic criticism and fans speaking out will trigger at least the consideration by the nfl to terminate the license where only EA could provide simulation football games. Competition is needed and a change is needed.… Expand
  55. Articuno27
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    just played my first game in Franchise mode, won 42-17 but it was counted as a 0-17 loss,
    FFS EA please stop making NFL video games and focus on NCAA games
  56. Beanking1342
    Aug 20, 2021
    0
    This is the most buggy and poorly executed madden ive ever played, I’ve been buying maddens since 06, it’s just terrible how bad EA has declined over the years. Do not waste your money on this game
  57. bquist127
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    I just played one game with the trial on Xbox. Game doesn't feel any different than the last 5 or so years. Presentation is still cheesy and unrealistic compared to a NFL broadcast. Gameplay still feels unrealistic as every player can hit stick the ball carrier no matter the size difference. AI also has no clock awareness as they let the half expire without taking a timeout despite beingI just played one game with the trial on Xbox. Game doesn't feel any different than the last 5 or so years. Presentation is still cheesy and unrealistic compared to a NFL broadcast. Gameplay still feels unrealistic as every player can hit stick the ball carrier no matter the size difference. AI also has no clock awareness as they let the half expire without taking a timeout despite being in DC range. Only going to play two games and call it for the year. I would be disappointed, but I had no expectations that this game would be good or at least better than before.… Expand
  58. Samgoody
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    This is the worst game to come out in a long time. With a fresh new skin this is just a copy paste version of last year which was the same from the year before… Etc. minor improvements to the advertising to trick you to spend more money and gamble this is just a hot mess. Face of the franchise is woke garbage. The music is terrible with some rappers talking about turning straight dudesThis is the worst game to come out in a long time. With a fresh new skin this is just a copy paste version of last year which was the same from the year before… Etc. minor improvements to the advertising to trick you to spend more money and gamble this is just a hot mess. Face of the franchise is woke garbage. The music is terrible with some rappers talking about turning straight dudes into ass slaves. This is not a game for everyone they are too woke for their own good. They spent no money on fixing horrible animations or fixing their broken code. All they did was add more bugs and let’s be real the graphics are horrible for an Xbox series x game this looks like it was made for 360… oh wait it was. I guess it’s true what they say? You can’t polish a turd. Refund requested. Don’t waste your money don’t buy packs please stop supporting this company.… Expand
  59. Honestreview22
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    I don't understand how EA can put a game out like this. They need to SCRAP this entire game engine and start over. The gameplay is a complete nightmare. GREED has ruined this game and this company. Everything about this game is a joke.
  60. Texas316
    Aug 19, 2021
    1
    The game seems to have alot of potential! I have played madden since the Sega era. I dont understand how you can take features away and never build on top of them. The release of this game was broken. Defense can not defend commentary on FOTF did not make sense. Online head to head is horrible players do not appear sometimes. I am excited for the franchise mode with update coming. ButThe game seems to have alot of potential! I have played madden since the Sega era. I dont understand how you can take features away and never build on top of them. The release of this game was broken. Defense can not defend commentary on FOTF did not make sense. Online head to head is horrible players do not appear sometimes. I am excited for the franchise mode with update coming. But before this game was released there should have been hold themselves accountable and stand on their Integrity and say we can not release this game, it is not ready I can not take consumers money for such a broken product. If this game stays how it is I will sadly never buy Madden ever again! I have forced myself for several days to play and try to have fun but unfortunately I can not. EA has a year to entertain me if they do not I will not play and save my $100 for another game. I give it a 1 because it is a game but nothing as I had expected.… Expand
  61. lVlorte
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Same tired game in a new package. Same broken gameplay, missing features from 10+ years ago. Lazy and tired. EA needs competition to make simulation football games because there's is not simulation. Total cash grab.
  62. fjtrull
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    What is this.... I'm not kidding what in the actual F#(# is this? Nice try trying to hide your copy pasted interface over top the one we have had the past couple years, except I see it EVERY TIME THERES A Load in Franchise mode. This game is garbage. I can literally play blindfolded and get the same result... the only button that actually matters is the one that hikes... seriously Try it.What is this.... I'm not kidding what in the actual F#(# is this? Nice try trying to hide your copy pasted interface over top the one we have had the past couple years, except I see it EVERY TIME THERES A Load in Franchise mode. This game is garbage. I can literally play blindfolded and get the same result... the only button that actually matters is the one that hikes... seriously Try it. Hike the ball blindfolded press any button at random to throw then sit back and watch the animations. This is a VISUAL NOVEL not SIMULATION FOOTBALL.… Expand
  63. thepagedog
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Simulation Football? really? from what planet?
    players dont respect the laws of physics, animations force players to morph into each other and/or warp across the field. DEFENSE IS A JOKE, peewee football teams could run a better zone concept than the DB's in this game. Glitches are plentiful in every single aspect of the game, from the title screen through to the final whistle, this game    Simulation Football? really? from what planet?
    players dont respect the laws of physics, animations force players to morph into each other and/or warp across the field. DEFENSE IS A JOKE, peewee football teams could run a better zone concept than the DB's in this game. Glitches are plentiful in every single aspect of the game, from the title screen through to the final whistle, this game will never give you the same experience twice, but that is unfortunately because it is so Bug filled and Glitch ridden it couldn't if it wanted to.
    improvements and additions to game modes like Franchise or Ultimate team are always welcome but when the game plays this terribly its no where near enough to make up for it.
    Face of the Franchise is face of the franchise, if you have played it in previous years you already know to skip it.
    This game is slightly better than Madden 21, but dont kid yourself into thinking that means its anything close to a good representation of actual football. do yourself a favor and skip this title and pray 2k comes back to sim football soon    … Expand
  64. Nickzzz
    Aug 19, 2021
    3
    The improvements to immersiveness such as the momentum system and crowd atmosphere are somewhat refreshing, but only a small patch over a huge problem. The gameplay is broken and overall horrible with complete animation reliability and complete cpu unawareness. Franchise mode has been improved and that is a positive, but it still very bleak. This is better than Madden 21 but is still soThe improvements to immersiveness such as the momentum system and crowd atmosphere are somewhat refreshing, but only a small patch over a huge problem. The gameplay is broken and overall horrible with complete animation reliability and complete cpu unawareness. Franchise mode has been improved and that is a positive, but it still very bleak. This is better than Madden 21 but is still so far off from other AAA titles.… Expand
  65. Maaddreamer
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    This game is bad. Plays the same as madden 21, maybe even worse. Very dependent on animations so nothing feels natural. Franchise is the same basically. The “staff” you hire does not affect anything really. Madden literally made me start playing nba 2k just for a real franchise experience, and I’m not even really a basketball fan. Ea is literally a monopoly.
  66. ThatOneFellow
    Aug 19, 2021
    7
    While the franchise mode has been dolled up and the new gameplay mechanics are incredibly fun (i.e. the Next Gen trackers for star ai) there's initial problems. Bugs and glitches do happen. Has it ruined (note the word) my experience on Xbox Series S/X? No. Has it dampened my experience on Xbox One X? Yes. While blocking mecha ics are rough and begged to be improved, the third deep zoneWhile the franchise mode has been dolled up and the new gameplay mechanics are incredibly fun (i.e. the Next Gen trackers for star ai) there's initial problems. Bugs and glitches do happen. Has it ruined (note the word) my experience on Xbox Series S/X? No. Has it dampened my experience on Xbox One X? Yes. While blocking mecha ics are rough and begged to be improved, the third deep zone coverage is shattering. Not in a goos way either. SS/FS aim around aimlessly between the numbers and the hashes and defend neither. Offensive linemen still aren't adequately programmed and also struggle. Those are my biggest gameplay gripes. From that it's a massive improvement (albeit that's not saying much). Whether you buy this or not will come down to one question: do you want EA to lose publishing rights? Hardcore fans will appreciate the changes moreso than the anti-EA crowd. Pick your poison.… Expand
  67. Manman404
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    This will be the first madden I will not but in over 15 years. I’m sick of this copy and paste game year after year. The game is broken EA! You need to rewrite this game from the ground up. With technology from games like breakbreaker and afl 2k8 there is not reason this game should be so animation reliant. There is no reason modes should be the same year after year!
  68. Sgs0609
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    If you understand football then you don’t understand madden, if you understand madden then you don’t understand football
  69. darthblackguy
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    I saw someone gave this game a 10. He/she is clearly a paid bot. This game is an untouchable mess. They didn't even work on it. They know a year-to-year release is impossible at this point and aren't even trying anymore. I suggest if you got gamepass play to madden 21 or 20 you are basically playing madden 22 but with fewer steps
  70. Amari2440
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    This game needs a complete overhaul. EA needs to rebuild this game from the ground up. Physics don’t matter. The defense in this game is non existent, specifically A.I logic. How did you make the defense WORSE??? The gameplay is full of bugs. This game is not on par with “Next Gen” gaming and is underwhelming in Many MANY ways. Don’t even play face of the franchise, it is NOT worth it.This game needs a complete overhaul. EA needs to rebuild this game from the ground up. Physics don’t matter. The defense in this game is non existent, specifically A.I logic. How did you make the defense WORSE??? The gameplay is full of bugs. This game is not on par with “Next Gen” gaming and is underwhelming in Many MANY ways. Don’t even play face of the franchise, it is NOT worth it. It’s laughable to think someone spent hours/days/months developing THAT. They made small changes to the gameplay and franchise mode, but other than that, it’s the same old broken madden.… Expand
  71. Stevenrwilliams
    Aug 19, 2021
    8
    Much approved from last year. Love all the new features, excited to see where madden goes from here. Folks they listened and they improved it. Madden 22 is a win for the community!
  72. Bone-Thugs
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    burned for the last time!!! game has more glitches than last year. the animations and pre determined outcomes are even worse. i have bought madden yearly since 97. i am giving up. just another roster update and the glitches get worse by the year. franchise trade machine and free agency is still terrible. not sure why they cant figure out things that games made in 2000 could do. the zonesburned for the last time!!! game has more glitches than last year. the animations and pre determined outcomes are even worse. i have bought madden yearly since 97. i am giving up. just another roster update and the glitches get worse by the year. franchise trade machine and free agency is still terrible. not sure why they cant figure out things that games made in 2000 could do. the zones in this game are 100x worse than they ever were before. can score on 4 verticles against any zone coverage… Expand
  73. Mattyice
    Aug 19, 2021
    2
    While I can certainly acknowledge the many improvements to franchise mode as being pretty great and the new momentum meter being a fun addition to the game, Madden 22 (like Madden 18-21 before it) is still a broken mess of a game. First off, the gameplay is STILL extremely broken and far too animation-driven with no physics present (or at least significant animation variety) whatsoever,While I can certainly acknowledge the many improvements to franchise mode as being pretty great and the new momentum meter being a fun addition to the game, Madden 22 (like Madden 18-21 before it) is still a broken mess of a game. First off, the gameplay is STILL extremely broken and far too animation-driven with no physics present (or at least significant animation variety) whatsoever, unlike in other sports titles. Face of the Franchise is STILL a terrible excuse for a superstar mode and is comically bad. The presentation and commentary is STILL boring as hell and it's about time we got a licensed presentation/commentary crew, even something similar to what we had in Madden 13-16 with Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, and a CBS-esque presentation style which looked great. Visuals from the Series S/X don't really get much of an upgrade over the Xbox One, again, unlike other sports titles. Finally, even with the long-needed new additions, franchise mode is still very much lacking things found in every other major US sports title (namely a team/stadium creation suite, compensatory picks, accurate contracts, and restricted free agency to name a few). Madden 22 is definitely an improvement over Maddens 18-21, but it's still not nearly enough. EA Sports needs to fix Madden's awful inauthentic gameplay first and foremost by making physics relevant or at least adding many many more animations, build a basic customization/relocation suite, and dramatically overhaul both Face of the Franchise and its presentation to even hold a candle to other sports games. It's still the worst of the bunch.… Expand
  74. dhdalegreer1
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Games still very very bad. So sad ea only one that can make a football game atm thanks to the NFL. Tackling u go through people. Unrealistic catching, throwing, running, blocking, route running, speed, change of direction, awareness, player pursuit angles, penalties, kicking I mean I cud keep going it's terrible. They keep getting more and more money hungry too... . Game always has crazyGames still very very bad. So sad ea only one that can make a football game atm thanks to the NFL. Tackling u go through people. Unrealistic catching, throwing, running, blocking, route running, speed, change of direction, awareness, player pursuit angles, penalties, kicking I mean I cud keep going it's terrible. They keep getting more and more money hungry too... . Game always has crazy bugs all through the year that never gets fixed and when they try to fix something they make it 1000 percent worse. Franchise has to wait till September update to get new features lol. I only play because only football game we got. When 2k comes out idc if it's arcadish least it will be football lol . It wud still play better then the a** stuff!!! Everytime they get a lawsuit on them they pay the individual off then come out in statements saying it's true they do do that etc. Like dda was getting sued but out of nowhere it was dropped then day later ea like yea we do dda don't matter how much u spend a 80 ovr team can still beat ur 99 ovr team hahahahahahahhaa… Expand
  75. sudzyone
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Awful audio- check
    Terrible menu lag- check
    Horrible interface- check
    Minimal next-gen upgrades- check
    Abominable gameplay- check
    Appalling weather implentation (see snow games)- check
    Horrid presentation (I am looking at you super fan cut scenes) - check
    Atrocious A.I._ check

    Save your $ Madden 22 is not worth your time
  76. BarnDogg27
    Aug 19, 2021
    1
    I have already returned my digital copy back to Xbox. I attempted to play this game over 3-days, only to have the game crash after 30-45 minutes of playing each time. I have no idea if this game is better than 21, because I wasn’t able to play it fully. What I did see in the few attempted hours of play was SHAMEFUL - a litany of bugs, graphic issues, & lag. I stupidly again preordered thisI have already returned my digital copy back to Xbox. I attempted to play this game over 3-days, only to have the game crash after 30-45 minutes of playing each time. I have no idea if this game is better than 21, because I wasn’t able to play it fully. What I did see in the few attempted hours of play was SHAMEFUL - a litany of bugs, graphic issues, & lag. I stupidly again preordered this game, the same as last year, with the same results & terrible quality.

    From what I saw in the game menus, not much has changed from last year. It looks like another year of putting lipstick on a pig & releasing the same thing. One constant though in franchise - why is there no custom face to create for coaches or owners? It’s still an empty, faceless avatar for any created owner or coach (& probably the same bald, fat white guy character that steps in when a coach is fired / not replaced yet). Simply take that stupid ‘yard’ character that you make at the beginning & allow that face / character to be used… but no, that would be TOO EASY & NBA2k already does that, so god forbid EA/Madden take any notes from other successful game franchises.

    Maybe EA beefed up franchise mode, maybe they didn’t - I’m not able to play this damn thing to find out. So I’ve decided I won’t be playing… ever… & I’ve been dedicated since Madden 96… I am so disappointed & pissed off, what a disgraceful sham of a game!    … Expand
  77. dmac32
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Worst game I've ever played in my life. Tons of glitches for example the wide receivers don't show up during the quarterback drills for face of the franchise mode. Also when I was playing the game my camera angle was flipped backwards during the game I couldn't see my play art. Then ontop of that the camera zooms all the way out so far I can see a overview of the stadium face of theWorst game I've ever played in my life. Tons of glitches for example the wide receivers don't show up during the quarterback drills for face of the franchise mode. Also when I was playing the game my camera angle was flipped backwards during the game I couldn't see my play art. Then ontop of that the camera zooms all the way out so far I can see a overview of the stadium face of the franchise is horrible tons of glitches the players ankles look like they are broken. The refs are glitched out, you can't edit your player at certain times , And the servers are horrible I spent 30 minutes to an hour trying log back into the game This game is trash… Expand
  78. Lilsims00
    Aug 19, 2021
    6
    I'm a franchise mode player on old gen. It's alright. Much better than Madden 21.
  79. TossGawd
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    For the 10th year in a row, this game was released with a ton of bugs and glitches without improving gameplay. Gameplay is completely rng animation based; so it’s more like a Telltale game where you chose a play, set up pre snap, then click a button and hope for the rng animation to be in your favor. And zones are completely broken. One play touchdowns in bunch constantly. Please stopFor the 10th year in a row, this game was released with a ton of bugs and glitches without improving gameplay. Gameplay is completely rng animation based; so it’s more like a Telltale game where you chose a play, set up pre snap, then click a button and hope for the rng animation to be in your favor. And zones are completely broken. One play touchdowns in bunch constantly. Please stop supporting EA and Madden. Enough is enough.… Expand
  80. Cdemoleas
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    I don't understand why EA doesn't take a two year hiatus to revamp this game from the ground up. The mechanics from Madden 05 is better than the nonsense animation based gameplay that we have had for the past 6-8 years. Personally, I think the majority of people want to play Franchise mode and the minor "new" features are just not enough. There has to be more of a focus/push to enhance theI don't understand why EA doesn't take a two year hiatus to revamp this game from the ground up. The mechanics from Madden 05 is better than the nonsense animation based gameplay that we have had for the past 6-8 years. Personally, I think the majority of people want to play Franchise mode and the minor "new" features are just not enough. There has to be more of a focus/push to enhance the Franchise experience. I have not bought this Madden game and will not be purchasing Madden for the first time in 15 years. I spent around 4-5 hours playing at my brother in laws house and there just hasn't been a big enough change for me to reconsider my feelings about this title. EA executives need to reassess this title and stop giving us reprocessed "features" that were available to us 15-20 years ago.… Expand
  81. SunnySide_games
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Madden hasn’t been/done anything for the football community in over 20 years. It’s been the same lack luster effort since 2006 Xbox 360. This one is the same as last year. It’s time for a change. NFL drop EA.
  82. Edmonddantes21
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    It's trash. As per usual a company that makes Billions finds a way to do as little as possible while also promoting the few changes they do make. I played 1 and a half quarters and Drew Lock against my defense was elite like he was Brady or Brees. Accurate pass after accurate deep throw. Yes this was online. But even so. It's not realistic anymore. I remember the vision cone. Where if youIt's trash. As per usual a company that makes Billions finds a way to do as little as possible while also promoting the few changes they do make. I played 1 and a half quarters and Drew Lock against my defense was elite like he was Brady or Brees. Accurate pass after accurate deep throw. Yes this was online. But even so. It's not realistic anymore. I remember the vision cone. Where if you could be accurate with a qb who had low awareness or accuracy then you knew you were a legit gamer. Where is the skill gap? Animations are the skill gap. User jumping for catches. And please let me not forget to mention the cash cow itself MUT. It's all they care about and as long as little Jimmy can get his mom's credit card it will continue for the next 4 years. Just hope someone challenges them sooner than later . If I could rate this a -99 I would. And it's still not low enough.… Expand
  83. IxAMxNIGHTMARE
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Can I rate this in the negatives? The game isn't really about football at all. Soon as you start, EA starts advertising Ultimate Team with pop ups that say things like "Get your FREE Tom Brady". If you accept the offer they start you off making sure that you can't possibly lose vs the cpu and before you know it you're building a team. From there you become addicted to spending money as youCan I rate this in the negatives? The game isn't really about football at all. Soon as you start, EA starts advertising Ultimate Team with pop ups that say things like "Get your FREE Tom Brady". If you accept the offer they start you off making sure that you can't possibly lose vs the cpu and before you know it you're building a team. From there you become addicted to spending money as you try to get better players so you can finally start to dominate online.
    While the RyanMoody21 and SoftDrinkTv YouTube channels exposes just how fake fixed & garbage this game is. Allow me to explain further on this monopoly.

    The game is designed to keep you online as much as possible to increase the odds that you will spend money. Its best exploit is by not matching you up against players of your skill level or simply anyone, but they make sure that you play who they want you to play AND when you play, EA will help the team that they want to win. Why? I've never heard anyone explain this yet, but if EA can keep everyone's record close to even, everyone will think that spending money to attempt to get just another player or 2 that they will be able to dominate and tip the scales on their winning percentage. It never works that way though. You still win the same amount. Your new player will perform like a true champion but other players will be slacking. The new players play hard for a month when released and then EA slows them down which makes you want to upgrade again and then you find yourself paying EA again.
    There's a number of different types of crypto currencies in the game except this is not able to be cashed in ever. It just serves to get you to again reach for your wallet.

    All of the different game modes that were a part of Madden and the fun things you could do before Ultimate Team took off are gone. You can play without Ultimate Team but Ultimate Team is EAs ONLY focus with the game.

    EA puts out a pre-order edition every year but it's never based around Madden but particularly the ultimate team mode. Every load screen is another attempt to try luring you to ultimate team mode. Right now, you can win but this is the early access period. In just a few days, as sure as always, EA will change up the online matchmaking. At that point, go check all your friends records. You can do this all the way back to Madden 15 and what you will see is that everyone wins 45 to 63% of their games.
    Save your money. The game will be free in no time. Actually EA is already giving the game away for free. Here's how: go on Twitter and type in #MaddenNFL22 or #Madden22. You'll find endless people saying that they are giving away codes to download the game for free. Those codes are coming straight from EA because only they can produce them. This is yearly. They don't care about selling the game. They want you in ultimate team so they can make tons more from you via microtransactions. While plenty of people claim to not spend on their team, this strategy is calling them liars.    … Expand
  84. lathaniel31
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Horrible gameplay, they don’t care about making a good game at all. They don’t listen to what the fans want.
  85. nickblank15
    Aug 19, 2021
    5
    i had madden 20 now i got madden 22 i will say its better but on some franchise games the end score will be 31 to 20 but when i go back to the main section wt swithes it to 31 to 0 and all stats are gone. if they can fix that it would be great.
  86. Bruhzonker
    Aug 19, 2021
    1
    I played the Trial and with Ea play and the gameplay is really bad but it’s not a zero because they added coaching staffs and gameplaning
  87. TDawwwwg
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Please don't waste your money. EA please leave simulation football alone. Let a more capable developer take over… Expand
  88. CGrist
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    I don’t know where to start??? The mode they promoted the most is broken and unfinished. Now they expect the customer to wait for a patch to include a full franchise experience. You basically can score on 1 play every time you get the ball, just throw it deep on a go route. The defense is an absolute s@&$ show. The lack f physics in this game is mind blowing. The line play is ridiculous.I don’t know where to start??? The mode they promoted the most is broken and unfinished. Now they expect the customer to wait for a patch to include a full franchise experience. You basically can score on 1 play every time you get the ball, just throw it deep on a go route. The defense is an absolute s@&$ show. The lack f physics in this game is mind blowing. The line play is ridiculous. Either your line blows right through in a second or they just get locked down and get stuck like old electric football. After playing just a few games I have seen the same animations that have already been in the game since 15. The hits are weak and ridiculous and they pay no attention to weight, position, or momentum. Blocks are half assed, there are no pancakes in the open field by linemen or fullbacks. They just go at peoples knees. I don’t know how Madden gets a pass for the last 6-7 years and Cyberpunk gets crucified. Same situation in my opinion. Rise up people and speak with your money and demand a refund.… Expand
  89. Andrew21397
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    The same copy and paste laziness since Madden 15 and before. If you cant animate and create actual football logic then you dont need a simulation license from the NFL. Poor babies were losing money because 2K football is a WAY better game and its STILL BETTER THAN ANY MADDEN OUT RIGHT NOW
  90. Loik7
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    almost no new stuff compared to old gen. also WHY is PC not next gen??? besides that glitches, franchise still needs improvements. ultimate team is the biggest cash grab i seen, glitchy af. and. same. garbage. animations. EA is getting in to tiktok especially with the trailer music. CPU players is broken. #defundeasports
  91. Lukeclim
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    DONT buy this game, unless you want to waste your money. I don't own the Xbox version but it's the same as the PlayStation and this game is the worst madden I've played
  92. luke6789
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Frustrated.
    Safetys in this game are literally damn stupid. If you say that this game is good, we shouldn't even start a conversation about because you simply can't understand football.
    EA, why you continue to do a thing that you are not able to do?!
  93. minkminkmink
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Honestly would give it a negative score if I could. Absolute garbage. Cough up the license already.
  94. Patrick26
    Aug 19, 2021
    0
    Being better than a bad game doesn't make a game good. Depth sucks. Animations based gameplay sucks more than depth. "Expect more control when it comes to catching like indipendent players battle when the ball is in the air". EA you pathetic. I don't know how you can have the courage to advertise stuff like that. You probably like to ridicule yourself.
    Everything about this game is bad.    Being better than a bad game doesn't make a game good. Depth sucks. Animations based gameplay sucks more than depth. "Expect more control when it comes to catching like indipendent players battle when the ball is in the air". EA you pathetic. I don't know how you can have the courage to advertise stuff like that. You probably like to ridicule yourself.
    Everything about this game is bad. This is not even football, arcade game style would be than this because here all depends on animations... This is just terrible, all gameplay is scripted and nothing is near to real football.
    Among all the **** they told us there was also the "management of the fatigue of the players during the season": the only fatigue that is impacted is the energy of the player who carries the ball. So if you run without the ball, you don't get tired!? Truly!? This has to be a joke.
    The worst game among all sports video games, again.    … Expand
  95. Ballinob
    Aug 18, 2021
    10
    May i say omg next gen is where its at ok like wow im so love the homefield advantage you have to try i never seen q football game implement something so sensual like no bs try it its a beast feature and the moving feels better a lil wierd but you'll get use to it madden really stepped up with this one played both versions and they are both great but next generation is beautiful
  96. JSwizzy00
    Aug 18, 2021
    0
    I don’t understand why some people on YouTube and social media are praising some things in the next gen game. Firstly, the gameplay is awful. Receivers, linemen, and the fullback still do not block correctly. The receivers still have no clue how to block the safety, corner, or anything when running outside or upfield. The linemen still either block no one on a pass or block the wrongI don’t understand why some people on YouTube and social media are praising some things in the next gen game. Firstly, the gameplay is awful. Receivers, linemen, and the fullback still do not block correctly. The receivers still have no clue how to block the safety, corner, or anything when running outside or upfield. The linemen still either block no one on a pass or block the wrong person on a run. For example, I call HB Dive and the right guard will double the DT with the center leaving a linebacker free. The fullback does the same thing. Rarely plays have the blocking correct and look smooth. Also I’m tired of the pass coverage being so bad. In zone the players don’t switch to receivers coming towards their zone. A lot of the time the defense just stands still. Then there is these weird movements where they take a step forward or a random direction and get themselves out of the play. Another thing not a lot of people talk about is the QB throwing it a set way. When I want to run a fade I want the ball in the corner of the end zone not in front of the receiver and have a fluid 1 on 1 that respects the WR and CB position, which is a whole other issue. Furthermore, there is certain spots where the QB can place the ball where it should be completed. But, it ends up being an interception. An example, is on a post route that goes between two defensive players zones. I want to be able to fit the ball towards the sideline lobbed over the front defender but not to much so the back defender can make a play on it. A good QB can make that throw but no one in the game can. It’s just gets picked by the front defender. There is so much more problems with the gameplay including the skill stick (why can we not combo moves more fluidly and not get stuck in animations), AI logic, and more. I just want a great football game that I can play. Franchise mode has improvements that I’m thankful for but it’s still missing so much like properly working fatigue, proper front 7 positions based on schemes, team building logic, training camp, records, breaking records and acknowledging it in game, draft picks 3+ years in the future, and so much more. I just wish that they could add a bunch of fluent animations and fix the logic of the game or rework it completely to have it physics based. I really wish I could praise this game each year but it’s impossible to do so when EA disappoints everyone each Madden. Lastly, add some body types and MAKE THE SHOULDER PADS SMALLER… Expand
  97. WKFootball80
    Aug 18, 2021
    8
    So... Personally, I like Madden 22. There are just some issues that piss me off. Such as online franchise crashing every 10 minutes, tackling being atrocious, and the fact that you can’t change age and dev trait outside of franchise mode is pretty stupid as someone who tries to create rosters but the customization options make it difficult. 8/10, however, I think it could also be a 2So... Personally, I like Madden 22. There are just some issues that piss me off. Such as online franchise crashing every 10 minutes, tackling being atrocious, and the fact that you can’t change age and dev trait outside of franchise mode is pretty stupid as someone who tries to create rosters but the customization options make it difficult. 8/10, however, I think it could also be a 2 because of all the glitches and crash issues. Tackling also pisses me off. Also, franchise against the cpu is too easy, can someone please give me REASONABLE sliders to make the game a decent challenge. I was beating the colts 40-0 in the first half on all madden simulation with the seahawks… Expand
  98. Bambam2251
    Aug 18, 2021
    0
    Nothing has changed and ALL effort goes towards micro transactions.

    How many times will we buy into EAs lies? How long must we suffer this garbage rinse and repeat cycle? The NFL really need to drop EA ASAP. They don’t care about the user, they care about filling their pockets with money from streamers and youtubers. All effort goes into MUT or the new **** feature “The Yard” or in    Nothing has changed and ALL effort goes towards micro transactions.

    How many times will we buy into EAs lies? How long must we suffer this garbage rinse and repeat cycle? The NFL really need to drop EA ASAP. They don’t care about the user, they care about filling their pockets with money from streamers and youtubers. All effort goes into MUT or the new **** feature “The Yard” or in other words, all effort goes into micro transactions.

    I enjoyed Madden (NOT 22) when I first started playing years ago, but I have been disappointed the past 7-8 years or so ever since animations have run/ruin the game. This game solely relies on animations (BiG SurPRisE), rather than actual user skill.

    I won’t write much more as nobody will probably read this, but I will not be buying another Madden game in the future unless EA either **** off or starts to give a ****    … Expand
  99. Tukay
    Aug 18, 2021
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bruh!!! Do i even have to say it? Say game.. copy in pasted.. stupid A1 and isn’t football at all!! I want a refund NOW… Expand
  100. CoopTheWolf
    Aug 18, 2021
    0
    This entire franchise has become just a yearly skin that goes over a terrible, broken, incompetently developed, embarrassing, video game for 12 year old kids and money hungry MUT streamers. The NFL needs to break from them for breach of contract because this is not a "simulation". Move aside and let 2K make the game we deserve.
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Awards & Rankings

64
#64 Best Xbox Series X Game of 2021
9
#9 Most Discussed Xbox Series X Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
70

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. Xbox Tavern
    Sep 20, 2021
    63
    Madden 22 is the next year’s instalment on the franchise and I feel it’s gone back a step. Yes, it looks graphically better, but otherwise it’s really not that much different to previous instalments. The career mode is a roll-forward from previous years, as are the achievements. EA could do so much more with the Madden franchise and it’s a shame they haven’t executed it as well as I’d hope.
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  2. Generación Xbox
    Sep 15, 2021
    77
    With new features and additions to existing game modes Madden 22 can be a wonderful touchdown for the IP veterans.
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  3. Everyeye.it
    Sep 13, 2021
    70
    For those who have not played Madden NFL for a few years, the new episode may be the right opportunity to start over. The Franchise mode has been rearranged and the direction taken seems to be the right one, while the gameplay, waiting for the adjustments in the secondary, is appreciated for a renewed physics in the inertia of the players' movements and for an AI that in more than one opportunity surprised us positively. The magic of the new generation has been little seen for now: Madden NFL 22 is still a good game to watch even if it was legitimate to expect something more. In general, our advice is to wait for EA Tiburon to fix bugs and glitches: time is up and the season has just started.
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