Madden 16 Review

Madden 16 Review

Another year, another Madden. So this game has been hyped as a “game changer.” So is it really a huge game changer? No, it is not. It is however still Madden, and like it or not, it is the dominant football game.

This years changes were mostly made to passing and receiving. Your receiver now has options for an “aggressive catch” or “run after catch.” The aggressive catch works well, maybe too well. It will often land you one of those big play highlight reel one-handed catches. In real football these are rare but people playing a game want to see their players do great things more often I guess. Run after catch seemed to be less exciting and not as viable.

Passing has seen some additions as well. You can now throw high or low. Your QB can throw a bullet or a lob, it is up to you and the situation. The lob works as intended and is definitely useful for getting the ball over the linebackers head but keep it away from the safety’s greedy hands. Double tap the button for the touch pass. Use the bumpers for height determination. Some may find this kind of detail more realistic and fun while others will consider it more stuff to think about in an already “much to see and do” game.

Defensive backs have also seen some new options in this version of Madden. You can now choose whether to go for the ball or wrap up the receiver. These kinds of changes have brought a sort of rock,paper scissors element ot the passing game this year. Go for the ball or the tackle? Big risks big rewards type of decisions.

Sadly the PS4 version did have some bugs but I expect these will be straightened out over time.

Commentary is still so repetitive. With all the effort EA puts into game graphics and trying to make the game seem like a real broadcast, I would like to see better commentary. This would bring a higher level of fun to the game in my opinion. I also miss the old Madden commentaries. It would be incredible to bring him back. I would almost be willing to forgive repetition to hear Madden shouting, “BOOM” again. Funny, I couldn’t stand him as a coach, but he won me over as a commentator.

Madden ultimate Team makes its return as well as the micro-transactions. I believe I’ve said it before but I am NOT a fan of micro-transactions in a game I’ve already spent $60 to play.

Connected Franchise Mode seemed to have some bugs early, but it is mostly the same as Madden 15 with some more goals as you play.

New to this edition is Draft Champions. You can choose one of three players at different positions over the course of 15 weeks. This is a good addition and makes for some fantasy football style of fun.

Overall, Madden is Madden. If you like the franchise, you will like this game. Madden 16 gets a 7.5 out of 10. BOOM!