Madden NFL 2005

"Take me out!"

Every single time a video game is released, at least one improvement is made. Out of every madden video game in the franchise, I would say this version would be the most improved out of them all, as well as the "best" madden.

Graphics/ Presentation- 9/10

There really isn't much to be said about this aspect of the game. The players look like players, The ball looks like a football, and the weather looks like well.Real rain or real snow! You simply cannot go wrong with graphics. Madden is joined by his old Monday night buddies for predictable commentary.

Sounds/music - 10/10
In a football game, You can expect the normal play calling, the numbers called, items to that sort. The sound is crisp and clear, and that is a good thing! In my opinion, The music featured in madden is easily the greatest in the franchise and possibly one of the greatest "licensed" songs featured in a video game!

Game play- 10/10
The main feature of this years version is the hit stick. Believe me, Once you have used the hit stick, and get used to the advantages, you will forget the square button ever existed. What is the hit stick you ask? Well, with just one flip of the right analog stick the defender makes a tackle towards the direct of the opposing player. The advantages are that the opposing player can get rattled- Increasing the chance of injury. When you face a great franchise team, an injury to a great quarterback helps give you the advantage.

In Franchise mode, A brand new storyline Central has been added. This can add fun- as well as annoyance to a player. It's not a good thing when you have two of your superstars complaining for playing time for the same position. It is definately not a good thing too when they refuse to re-sign with your team, or demand a trade. In addition to storyline central, A radio broadcast by "Tony Bruno" Covers the week ahead, and the important events that took place during your previous football game- I.E milestones or records broken. These two features are a huge upgrade to the franchise mode

If you are lucky enough to play other opponents on-line, The quarters during ranked games have lessened from five minutes to four minutes. A very useful sports ticker has been added, and this ticker can tell you how your favorite sports team is doing in real life- A handy feature to have when you don't feel like watching the game!

Replay value- 10/10- If you can pick up the Collectors Edition of madden this year, Do it. The collectors edition adds a ton of activities that you can participate in with your friends. This includes a trivia game, extra trailers, and two older versions of madden to play with your friends!

Rent or buy?- Well for any football fan, This years madden is a must own in everyones' video game collection. Especially if you can get your hands on the collector's edition. This years edition can keep a human happy for an extraordinary amount of time!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 06/03/06