Madden NFL 2004

"Much improved!"

If you read my review for Madden NFL 2003, you know that I wasn't thrilled with it. Not to say that it was a bad game, but it was definitly lacking in key areas. Madden NFL 2004, through what i've seen, is not.

Gameplay: 9/10

This is the aspect that has improved tremendously. The gameplay last year was slow and repetetive. This year, it's sped up to where it needs to be. Although passing is tough until you get the hang of it, it still works out. There have been a few changes that may be unfamiliar to traditional Madden gamers. The play calling interface has completely changed, some say for the worse, but I don't mind it. You can no longer see the other team's formation they choose. It's still traditional formations, but by hitting X you can change packages. In other words, you can sub a running back out without going to the depth chart. Very nice feature if you ask me. I haven't noticed any framerate slowdowns, which is a major plus, and sacks aren't as hard to come by any more, but they aren't easy. They also got rid of the EA screw, and big plays don't occur so often anymore. Don't get me wrong, they still happen, but at acceptable amounts.

Graphics: 10/10

They took something I didn't think they could improve, and improved upon it. Players now look more like their real life counterparts. Some players even have their trademarks, like Ricky Williams' hair, and Tony Gonzalez dunking over the goal post. Stadiums look so much like their real life counterparts that it's scary. Sidelines could use some improvement, but other than that, they've added more accesories, such as the new Helmets that supposedly protect against concussions. This game is spectacular in this area if you ask me.

Features: 10/10

EA sports can do no wrong with their two best parts of their two best football games. Dynasty mode in NCAA, and Franchise mode in Madden. Franchise mode now includes a new part called Owner Mode, where you are the owner of the team and you set prices for concessions, parking, merchandise, and other things. Your main goal is to create a profit for your team. You also can create alternate/update your uniforms, and move your team to other cities. If your stadium is lacking, you can build a new one with the incredible stadium builder they put into this game. Another new feature which is overlooked, but I find to be the best feature in this game, is the Accelerated Clock feature. It ticks the play clock down to 20 seconds as soon as you call your play, except in the last two minutes of a half. It speeds up game times incredibly. The EA Sports TRAX feature is improved and has many more songs and allows you to choose what songs to play. Training camp is included, but it's the same as last year's mini camp, but instead of earning Madden cards, you can earn stat points for your players.

Sound: 8/10

Madden and Michaels sound pretty good this time around, actually bringing up things that make sense. They don't sound so robotic when saying player names, and they provide good insight. The EA sports TRAX are mentioned above. On-Field sound is good too, with players shouting encouragement at one another.

Buy/Rent?

Unless you hate Madden football, this is a definite buy. This is the best $50 i've spent since I bought NCAA Football 2004, another good buy. Madden returns to the top with this game.

Overall Score: 9/10

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 10/27/03