Souzek Republic: It's in the Game

It's in the Game

Chances are if you're interested in this review then you're a gamer of some sort, which also means that there's a good chance that you have problems focusing on anything for more than a few minutes (don't worry, I have ADD too). So before I lose you, I'll get right to the important points, attractively bulleted to keep your attention. By the way, I'm reviewing the PS2 version.

Improvements

Loads faster: I don't know how they did it but the good folks at Sony/EA Sports have shortened the time it takes to load the initial game screen, games and other modes (essentially everything).

Network adapter compatible: I have no experience with this yet because a PS2 Network Adapter is not an easy thing to procure yet, but the potential has PS2 owners worldwide drooling. Play Madden online, download updated team rosters (an idea I had about two years ago) ... there's no end to the possibilities!

Better commentary: The fact that Pat Summerall's voice is nowhere to be found on this game means that the commentary is automatically 100% better but they've done much more than that. First, Al Michaels rocks ("he's at the 40 ... the 30 ... the 20"). Second, the well of quotes that both commentators draw from is much deeper and their placement in game situations is much more realistic. The commentary is more enjoyable, less repetitive and annoying.

Defensive matchup/coverage view: In the same way that while on offense you can pull the camera back to see receiver routes and assignments, you can now do the same on defense. You can see what each defensive player is assigned to do (shown by a simple line) and what areas of the field they are responsible for covering in the case of a pass (shown by a dark bubble on the field). Not especially useful in head-to-head mode because it gives you away but a nice touch nonetheless.

More realistic tackling: You know how players used to kind of bounce off of each other? That's gone now. Players stumble and slow down when breaking tackles and the motions look more realistic as well.

Create your own playbook: Let's face it, some coaches' playbooks suck. To combat this, you can create your own playbook with plays and sets stolen from other coaches as well as custom offensive and defensive plays, formations and receiver routes. Nice. A lot of work/time, but nice.

Mini-camp mode: Probably the single most important reason to buy the new Madden. Maybe it's not enough on its own but it should seal your decision. In this mode, you do drills simulating almost every aspect of the game, such as tackling, passing and rushing. The drills utilizes targets, tackling dummies and other players to create situations that you need to pass in a certain amount of time or with a certain degree of success in order to continue. Once you medal in an event, you get a chance to try your new skills in a game situation and believe me, your skills do improve if you put in the time to pass the drills. With four levels of difficulty and 8 skills to master in each, you will be entertained for hours/days/weeks.

Drawbacks

Music: I know we were spoiled by the ridiculous soundtrack of Madden 2002 (Kweli, Pharoahe, Mos Def) but did it have to be entirely replaced by rock? It's a minor point but a step in the wrong direction.

Bottom line: Since my review sounds more like an ad for the game than anything else, it's probably obvious that I would advise buying the game. I know it's hard to come up with the $50 but you won't regret it.