Joystiq

Madden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams

Mike Suszek — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST

In Madden 25's Connected Franchise career mode, players can take on the role of team owner and perform a number of new tasks, including relocating teams to new cities. Madden's Creative Director Mike Young told Joystiq today that the mode is designed to limit the franchise relocation option to 17 different markets. The 17 cities include Brooklyn, London, Dublin, Toronto, Mexico City, Los Angeles, Austin, Columbus, Orlando, Portland, Oklahoma City and Memphis.

Additionally, some locations with an already-established NFL presence can receive a second team, such as Chicago and Houston. Players will have the option to retain their team name, logo and uniforms when moving or select from three different preset options for each city, including the Brooklyn Beats. The mode also grants players the option to reboot now-defunct teams from the NFL's history, such as the Columbus Panhandles, London Monarchs or the Houston Oilers. Players can opt to turn off the team relocation feature, disabling the option entirely.

EA Sports provided us with a new trailer for the game in which Young discusses the move from Madden 13's Connected Careers mode to this year's Connected Franchise mode. Madden 25 will launch August 27 for PS3 and Xbox 360.

Madden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports' next-gen Ignite Engine shown off in trailer form

Mike Suszek — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:58:00 EST

EA Sports' next-generation Ignite Engine was on display at the Xbox One reveal event at Microsoft's Redmond campus today. We have four trailers that demonstrate the engine's capabilities, three of which can be found after the break.

EA Sports Executive Vice President Andrew Wilson told attendees of the Xbox One event that the Ignite Engine will perform "four times more calculations per second" than the publisher's current offerings. Wilson said the engine will allow for 3D crowds and dynamic sidelines.

EA will launch four sports games for the console within 12 months, namely FIFA 14, Madden NFL 25, EA Sports UFC and NBA Live 14. Each game will be powered by the Ignite Engine.

Continue reading EA Sports' next-gen Ignite Engine shown off in trailer form

EA Sports' next-gen Ignite Engine shown off in trailer form originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Relocate your team in Madden 25's franchise owners mode

Mike Suszek — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST

EA Sports lifted the curtains today on one of its core additions to Madden 25 this year, Connected Franchise owners mode. In it, players take on the role of team owner, setting prices for tickets and concessions as well as having the option to relocate teams to both domestic and international cities. Owners also handle the hiring of team personnel, such as scouts, trainers and coaches, and they answer questions from the media. Players will manage stadium upgrades and market their superstar athletes so fans will buy their jerseys, increasing their teams' yearly profit.

The options to import draft classes from EA's NCAA Football series and take control of all 32 teams in the Connected Careers mode were woefully absent from last year's game, but will return to Madden 25. Additionally, the game's primary career mode will receive a face-lift thanks to an improved user interface that includes a transaction log to follow the movement of players from team to team. The mode's UI includes a new Trade Center, allowing users to see what other teams are offering for players and draft picks so they can top their opponents' bids.

Lastly, Madden 25 will feature more media personalities for the career mode's in-game Twitter feed, such as ESPN fantasy analyst Matthew Berry and Fox Sports NFL writer Peter Schrager. It will also receive new legendary players and coaches, including Mike Ditka and William "The Refrigerator" Perry.

Gallery: Madden NFL 25 (Connected Franchise)

Relocate your team in Madden 25's franchise owners mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 25 trailer gets defensive

Mike Suszek — Sun, 19 May 2013 10:30:00 EST

This video for Madden 25 shows a sizzle reel of defensive features while San Francisco 49ers linebacker Navorro Bowman discusses tactics for tackling players in the NFL. The game will see some under-the-hood changes, including Infinity Engine improvements and the addition of heat-seeker tackling.

Madden 25 trailer gets defensive originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Limited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription

Mike Suszek — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST

Since Madden NFL 25 ~~skipped 12 years~~ is named to commemorate the series' 25th anniversary, it shouldn't be surprising that EA Sports recently unveiled a special Anniversary Edition. What is a little surprising are the contents of the special edition, which includes a free one-year subscription for DirecTV's NFL Sunday Ticket service, allowing fans to watch every out-of-market NFL game throughout the season.

EA Sports tells us that the subscription is limited to the NFL Sunday Ticket computer, tablet and mobile service. Additionally, those who are able to receive DirecTV service in their area can get $10 off per month for the service, which starts at $225, as well as a free subscription to the higher-tier NFL Sunday Ticket MAX.

The Anniversary Edition of Madden 25 is exclusive to Amazon, and limited to 50,000 copies on each of the game's platforms, Xbox 360 and PS3 (100,000 copies total). It will also include complimentary Madden Ultimate Team card packs every week of the NFL's 17-week regular season. Madden 25's Anniversary Edition is available to pre-order now on Amazon for $99.99.

Limited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 25 trailer shows a few new moves

Mike Suszek — Sat, 04 May 2013 22:30:00 EST

A recent blog from EA Tiburon provided more specific examples of how Madden 25's combo moves for ball-carriers would operate. The latest trailer for the game shows off some of the noted moves, such as stutter steps, back jukes and the runner's newfound ability to recover from stumbling.

Madden 25 trailer shows a few new moves originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements

Mike Suszek — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST

Among the news of all-time great Barry Sanders gracing the cover of Madden NFL 25, EA Sports recently announced two of the series' marquee changes due this year: improvements to the Infinity Engine and a new running game feature called "Run Free."

Run Free promises 30 new ball-carrier combo moves. Using the left trigger, ball-carriers will stutter step before slowing down, enabling combo moves through the use of the right stick on the controller. While past games allowed players to use the right stick to take a step in one direction, then rotate in the other direction to spin away from defenders, these were separate animations. Run Free's system combines these animations.

Changes to the Infinity Engine - the physics engine that powers the series - include the same improvements such as the Force Impact system announced for NCAA Football 14. Madden will share avoidance animations with NCAA 14, with runners sticking their arms out to push off their blockers instead of taking awkwardly sensitive collision tackles. EA Tiburon has promised run blocking improvements, which has especially been needed since the introduction of the engine last year.

Continue reading Madden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements

Madden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next Madden 13 update lands October 16, adds career mode features

Mike Suszek — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 21:30:00 EST

When the folks at EA Tiburon told us they were "committed to post-launch support" of Madden 13 back in August, we weren't told just how often the game would see that support. As it turns out, the next update is scheduled to release October 16, about a month after the previous update.

This update, the third one for Madden 13, fixes some gameplay and presentation issues while focusing on the game's career mode. Connected Careers mode is getting some noteworthy updates this month with the addition of player editing for online leagues, the ability to use custom rosters offline, and the option to change offensive and defensive coaching schemes. Aside from new features, Connected Careers is also receiving a number of fixes for some of its glaring issues, including a fix for the online mode's broken accelerated clock.

Next Madden 13 update lands October 16, adds career mode features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Metareview: Madden NFL 13

Mike Suszek — Sat, 25 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST

As the latest in EA Sports' ongoing pro football series, Madden NFL 13 introduced the hard-hitting Infinity Engine and Connected Careers mode this year as noteworthy additions among a fair amount of issues. Our review saw the game as "the foundation for eventual excellence." Here's what other critics around the web had to say about this year's Madden:

GamesRadar (4.5/5): "It's not often that a stalwart franchise like this reinvents itself so significantly, but Madden NFL 13 has pulled this off with aplomb. Brimming with innovation on the field and off, it's the best Madden of the generation."
EGM (8/10): "All in all, it's clear the team at Tiburon took a hard look at ways to bring the franchise back to its former glory. Some annoying bugs persist here and there, but overall, Madden NFL 13 stands as one of my favorite football experiences of this generation."
Polygon (8/10): "Madden 13 gives players a ton of options without explaining them in detail, and that's an issue. But Madden NFL 13 represents a giant leap over its predecessors. It's easily the best Madden title of this console cycle, and it's notable for the ways in which it clearly sets the stage for Tiburon to make a graceful transition into the next generation."
OXM (7.5/10): "The engine shows a great deal of promise, and Connected Careers features a lot of interesting ideas, but there's no question that this is a rebuilding year. The best news is that EA finally seems to be on the right track. Give it another year, and Madden may at last be a true contender."

Gallery: Madden NFL 13 (E3 2012)

Metareview: Madden NFL 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed

Mike Suszek — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST

With Madden NFL 13 launching in less than a week, EA Sports unleashed its latest category of player ratings for the game. The video above details the top ten overall defenders in the game to start the season.

Notably missing from the top ten list are defenders from the Super Bowl champion New York Giants team, such as Jason Pierre-Paul. Even considering his offseason injury, it's a curious decision to leave the 2011 Defensive Player of the Year winner Terrell Suggs out of the top ten list as well, while putting his fellow Baltimore Ravens teammates Haloti Ngata and Ed Reed in the mix.

As usual, EA Sports began casting votes for the top-rated defenders in speed, tackling, hit power, and man coverage on their Facebook page this week. Currently, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson is winning in the speed category, Patrick Willis of the 49ers has a slim lead over Ray Lewis of the Ravens in the hit power category and also is in the lead for the tackling category. Darrelle Revis, New York Jets cornerback and number one defender in the game is leading the vote for the highest man coverage rating.

Lastly, EA Sports recently released a complete list of ratings for every receiver in the game. Take a look at a more thorough breakdown of the top ten wide receivers and tight ends in Madden 13 and their overall, speed, acceleration, strength, awareness, and catching ratings after the break.

Continue reading Madden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed

Madden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Madden 13 demo lands this Tuesday, Sexy Rexy returns

Mike Suszek — Sun, 12 Aug 2012 20:30:00 EST

Madden 13's demo will be available August 14, and features match-ups between the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins, the latter being led in a pre-game cheer by backup QB Rex "Sexy Rexy" Grossman in the announcement trailer above. The Redskins have a clear-cut starting quarterback in their second overall draft choice Robert Griffin III, who is rated 83 overall in the game and is also prominently featured in the trailer, but it's good to see Grossman (rated 75 overall) getting digitally fired up from the sidelines these days.

The demo also features a rematch between the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants and the NFC runner-ups, the San Francisco 49ers. While doing the salsa dance in the end zone with Giants receiver Victor Cruz sounds like a good time, we'll be opting to solve the Russell Wilson/Matt Flynn/Tarvaris Jackson QB conundrum in Seattle on Tuesday. Madden 13 is set to launch on August 28 for Xbox 360, PS3, and PlayStation Vita.

PSA: Madden 13 demo lands this Tuesday, Sexy Rexy returns originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Aug 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 13 on Wii U features touch play-calling, hot routes

Mike Suszek — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST

A Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 was briefly detailed at EA's Summer Showcase event today. Developed by EA Tiburon, the game will include many of the same features to be seen in the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions, including Total Control Passing and the game's improved "read and react" defensive AI. The much-touted Connected Careers mode will also find its way to Wii U, along with commentary by Jim Nantz and Phil Simms.

The Madden 13 Wii U demo at the event demonstrated new touch-screen play-calling methods, player management, and pre-snap adjustments on the GamePad controller. Additionally, players will be able to draw hot routes for their receivers on the controller's screen, not unlike the series' "call your shots" modes on the Wii. Madden 13 will launch with the Wii U later this year.

Madden 13 on Wii U features touch play-calling, hot routes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA files $27 million settlement in lawsuit, cannot renew current NCAA license [Update]

Mike Suszek — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST

Electronic Arts reached a settlement in a class action lawsuit that dates back to 2008 for $27 million, and will be unable to renew its exclusive agreement with the NCAA, providing the court upholds the settlement terms.

The original lawsuit claimed that EA violated antitrust laws by entering exclusive license agreements with the NFL, NCAA, and AFL. The $27 million settlement fund proposed by EA would, in part, benefit those that purchased any EA Sports football game from January 2005 to today. Specifically, customers that bought any of the included GameCube, Xbox, and PS2 games may get up to $6.79 per game, and $1.95 per Wii, Xbox 360, and PS3 game.

EA also agreed to stipulations on future license agreements as part of the proposed settlement, as it will not make any exclusive licensing deals with the AFL for five years, and will not renew its current agreement with the NCAA. Additionally, EA won't be able to enter another exclusive licensing agreement with the NCAA for five years. The company's exclusive NFL trademark licensing deal remains untouched in the proposed settlement, which awaits final approval by the court on September 27.

Update: As a clarification, EA Sports' future NCAA license will be non-exclusive. EA sent us the following statement: "We made a business decision to settle this lawsuit and put the matter behind us. We look forward to continuing our partnerships with the NFL and NCAA."

Continue reading EA files $27 million settlement in lawsuit, cannot renew current NCAA license [Update]

EA files $27 million settlement in lawsuit, cannot renew current NCAA license [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden NFL 12 review: Vacuum-sealed

Mike Suszek — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST

Reviewing, let alone investing in an annual sports game series is difficult. In my experience, Madden fans are typically the reluctant type; they hope for vast improvements every year and expect a new game that will blow them away. Madden NFL 12 is not that game. It's not the kind of game that answers every problem players have with football games. But this year, EA Sports tackled some core issues that elevates this game as one of the best in the series.

Gallery: Madden NFL 12 (8/25/11)

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Madden NFL 12 review: Vacuum-sealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Electronic Arts opening EA Sports retail store in Charlotte airport

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST

It's a situation that the non-sporting chapter of the games community is likely familiar with -- you stop by your local GameStop on an early fall evening to grab a copy of some non-athletic title therein, but are prevented from crossing the building's threshold by an impenetrable wall of Madden enthusiasts. We've got great news for folks living in the vicinity of the Charlotte Douglas International Airport: EA plans to open an EA Sports retail location in said airport's terminal, potentially limiting your run-ins with prospective wedgie-executors.

News of the store's construction came from EA Sports VP of brand marketing Chris Erb, who told Forbes the megapublisher hopes the retail location will be the first of three stores opening across the nation. No details were given on where the other two locations will be planted, but we suggest they take their business to a place that's a little more accessible than an airport terminal. You know, like literally any other place on the planet.

Electronic Arts opening EA Sports retail store in Charlotte airport originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden creative director departs along with EA Sports CTO [update]

James Ransom-Wiley — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST

Madden 12 creative director Ian Cummings has announced his departure from EA on the official Madden Blog. His last day with EA Sports and the Central Florida-based Tiburon studio was yesterday, he confirmed in a tweet. He leaves behind a nearly 11-year career with the company to "seek opportunities elsewhere" -- in other words, "a new company."

"I leave the Madden NFL 12 development team with confidence that it is in great hands," wrote Cummings in his final Madden Blog post. Apparently, those hands don't belong to Richard Wifall. The EA Sports chief technology officer tweeted today that he had left, too.

The pair of high-profile resignations was first hinted at in a report last Sunday by sports game news site pastapadre.com, which suggested that "several high level members" of the Madden development team "may be joining a new studio." That studio is thought to be social gaming startup Row Sham Bow, founded by former EA Tiburon GM Philip Holt (aha!) and conveniently located in nearby Winter Park, Fla. According to the Orlando Business Journal, Row Sham Bow plans to create 60 "high-wage" jobs -- just the thing to lure over a few old friends.

Update: Wifall confirmed with Joystiq that he is indeed teaming up with Holt, Cummings, "and some other talented individuals" at Row Sham Bow. "We aren't ready to talk about our plans just yet," he added. "When we are ready to talk, you can expect to find out more at rowshambow.com."

[Pictured: Cummings; image credit: EA.com]

Madden creative director departs along with EA Sports CTO [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Class action suit filed against EA Sports over football monopoly

JC Fletcher — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST

The Madden lawsuit season is beginning! If you bought one of EA Sports' Madden, NCAA, or even Arena Football games between 2005 and now, you might be receiving an email naming you as part of a "class" of plaintiffs in a class action suit against EA.

The case "Pecover V. Electronic Arts, Inc." claims that EA's exclusive licenses "foreclosed competition in an alleged football video game market." Because of this lack of competition, the plaintiffs in the case claim that this monopoly allowed EA to overcharge for its games (even though EA Sports games cost the same as most other mass-market console games).

Right now, you're a member of the "class" of allegedly fleeced football fans if you bought any of the games, unless you bought them on a mobile platform, pre-owned, directly from EA, or while working for EA. If you want to opt out of the class (what -- you don't want to be part of something?), you can do so by following the instructions here. We've contacted EA for comment.

Class action suit filed against EA Sports over football monopoly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 12 cover athlete vote expanded to 32-team bracket

James Ransom-Wiley — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:55:00 EST

Perhaps channeling the spirit of "March Madness," EA Sports and ESPN's SportsNation have partnered to present a five-week, bracket-style voting campaign for the Madden 12 cover athlete -- labor disputes be damned!

The first round, which starts today and runs through next Sunday, divides the field of 32 players (one from each NFL team) into two sides of seeded match-ups, with quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Philip Rivers representing the two #1 seeds. (League MVP Tom Brady is noticeably absent from the field of candidates.)

It's unclear how exactly the rankings and players were determined, but the first round craftily pairs match-ups by division, playing off of heated rivalries. While this setup encourages each team's dedicated fan base to vote (for themselves in the case of the lowly Seahawks), those loyalists might first have to overcome superstition. While electing Panthers' offensive tackle Jordan Gross to the cover would be quite a coup for Carolina fans, can they really risk cursing the standout lineman? Perhaps the best strategy, then, is to vote for the teams and players you hate the most.

Madden 12 cover athlete vote expanded to 32-team bracket originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden NFL Football rushes to 3DS launch

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST

EA Sports' Madden franchise will make it in time for the day of the 3DS launch, EA has confirmed at a recent preview event. But is that really a good thing?

Continue reading Madden NFL Football rushes to 3DS launch

Madden NFL Football rushes to 3DS launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: EA developing Madden Curse movie

Justin McElroy — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST

In what has to be one of the odder game-to-movie schemes we've come across, The Wrap reports that EA is currently working on a film based on the "Madden curse" that's supposedly plagued athletes who've appeared on cover art for the venerable football series. Bizarrely, the film is supposedly centered on "a former Madden video game champion who is forced out of retirement just as he finds himself on the corner of the game's cover -- and subject to the curse." So ... wait ... it's someone who plays Madden? You guys ... you guys know what the Madden curse is, right?

You know that game "Would You Rather?" where you have to choose between two reprehensible options? We've become convinced EA is playing a grandiose celluloid version of it. "Would you rather," the company asks, "see a movie about a guy who's good at Madden before he retires from video games or a movie where a kid plays the Sims and accidentally controls the real world?" If "neither" isn't an option, we hope "plucking the foul jellies we call eyes from our skulls before the trailers are over" is.

Report: EA developing Madden Curse movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: Madden NFL 11

David Hinkle — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST

Sports is the ultimate common ground for the common man. From the salt-of-the-earth mechanic to the high-powered Wall Street exec, sports has always broken social barriers and given all (well, most) of us something to relate to each other with. Sports games, on the other hand: not so much.

As technology improved, the pursuit's become "realism." In the place of arcade-style fun is simulation, and sports games have become a kind of secret fraternity that often don't welcome newcomers with open arms. You need years of experience or worse, a degree in sportgameology to enjoy them. On the surface, Madden NFL 11 doesn't appear to buck that trend, but key design decisions help it shake off some of the inaccessibility of Maddens past.

Gallery: Madden NFL 11

Continue reading Review: Madden NFL 11

Review: Madden NFL 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Retired NFL players sue EA over likenesses in Madden 09

David Hinkle — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

The likenesses of the historic teams in Madden 09 were apparently a little too lifelike, as over 6,000 retired NFL players have come together and filed a class-action lawsuit against EA. According to IGN, the lawsuit claims that EA used the stats and positions of past players, but changed their uniform numbers and removed their names in order to get around having to pay licensing fees.

The lawsuit also takes aim at the customization options available, which let players freely edit in the real names and uniform numbers of these classic athletes. "The only significant detail that EA changes from the real-life retired NFL players is their jersey number," the suit claims. "Despite EA's 'scrambling' of the retired NFL players' numbers, the games are designed so that consumers of the Madden NFL video game franchise will have no difficulty identifying who the 'historic' players are."

The lawsuit seeks damages associated with the "deprivation and violation of publicity rights."

Retired NFL players sue EA over likenesses in Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Walmart doing midnight launches for Madden NFL 11

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Just eight more days until Madden NFL 11 hits store shelves. Those of you itching to get a copy as soon as possible will be happy to learn that Walmart's holding midnight launch events for the game, even giving $5 discounts to midnight purchases.

Continue reading Walmart doing midnight launches for Madden NFL 11

Walmart doing midnight launches for Madden NFL 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 11 PSP bundle touches down August 10 for $170

JC Fletcher — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

With two different PSP hardware bundles for upcoming games, today might randomly be the biggest day of the year for PSP news. In addition to the God of War: Ghost of Sparta Entertainment Pack, Sony has announced a bundle that includes Madden 11. If you still need a PSP before you're ready for some football, this is for you!

The Madden bundle doesn't come with a PSP in a unique color scheme -- it simply includes the Piano Black PSP-3000. But what it does come with is an effectively free copy of Madden. The whole bundle sells for $170, the same price as the PSP alone. (You don't have to be one of football's best coaches to recognize the appeal of that strategy.) The bundle will be available alongside standalone versions of Madden 11 next Tuesday, August 10.

Madden 11 PSP bundle touches down August 10 for $170 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden NFL 11 to support 3-v-3 online, Game Flow play-calling system

David Hinkle — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:05:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

EA's Peter Moore detailed some changes coming in the latest iteration of its football series, Madden NFL 11. Now your friends can get off the couch and get into the game through 3-vs-3 support for online play. Aside from the new online functionality, Peter Moore also promised game length would be cut in half for online games.

Then there's Game Flow, a system that not only suggests plays but will also help make play-calling simpler. But have no fear, diehard fans: Game Flow is simply an option for a more guided experience. At any time, players can choose to go with the full playbook should they not wish to take advantage of the game's assistance.

Madden NFL 11 blitzes retail on August 10.

Madden NFL 11 to support 3-v-3 online, Game Flow play-calling system originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Supreme Court ruling states NFL teams are separate entities

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 24 May 2010 18:30:00 EST

According to USA Today, a recent Supreme Court ruling has denied the National Football League antitrust law protections, stating that its 32 constituent teams must be considered separate entities. The court reversed the dismissal of a suit filed against the league by American Needle, Inc., a company which was locked out of the football-themed hatmaking business after the NFL penned a 10-year exclusivity agreement with Reebok. Gee, that sounds awfully familiar.

The case of American Needle v. NFL has returned to the lower courts, where a decision in favor of the former could drastically change the face of the NFL's licensing business. In short, if the district courts find the league in violation of antitrust laws, it could repeal exclusivity agreements like the one with Reebok -- or, likely more pertinent to your interests, the one with EA Sports, which brought a hasty end to the NFL2K series. We'll keep an eye out for further developments in this lawsuit.

Supreme Court ruling states NFL teams are separate entities originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA taps Gus Johnson for Madden 11 commentary

David Hinkle — Fri, 21 May 2010 17:30:00 EST

Gus Johnson is no ho-hum, run-of-the-mill announcer. He really gets into it. EA has taken notice and tapped Johnson for play-by-play announcer duties in Madden 11. Johnson will join Cris Collinsworth, who returns this year to provide the color commentary.

Johnson replaces Tom Hammond, whose commentary tracks last year were criticized by Madden players as being wooden and lifeless. While it's difficult to program engaging game commentary with pre-recorded audio, EA Tiburon remains committed to improving this facet of its football mega-franchise. With 90,000 lines of dialogue going into Madden 11, players will hear more dynamic play-calling than in past iterations, whether it's when a receiver drops a catch or a running back breaks into the open field.

Above, watch a video of some of the developers discussing the new audio approach in Madden 11. For a preview of Johnson doing some lines for the game, hit up ESPN.

EA taps Gus Johnson for Madden 11 commentary originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 11 videos chant new 'Simpler, Quicker, Deeper' design mantra

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST

"Simpler, Quicker, Deeper." That's the tag line for Madden 11, as EA appears to be angling for the attention of the unsophisticated, no-time-to-waste "casual" demographic without dissuading its hardcore player base. The new Madden will be made both "simpler" and "quicker" through GameFlow, the buzzword for an optional auto-play calling mode, which puts players in the role of a quarterback that receives his plays from an AI coach. "Not everyone has an hour to dedicate," says senior producer Phil Frazier, alluding to the average length of a typical Maddden match. GameFlow is said to shave down match times to 30 minutes.

But fear not, bro, Madden also goes "deeper" this year with the option to create custom game plans before each match. Plus, there's another buzzword to memorize: Locomotion. That's the name for the game's "all new" animation system. While still short of the highs achieved by the Euphoria-powered animations of Backbreaker, there is a gameplay component to Madden's Locomotion system: Players can now lean and dodge during runs with the analog sticks.

According to the trailer, Madden 11 "will make every football game before it obsolete." (At least, GameStop's trade-in value will certainly reflect this sentiment.) Check out the dev diaries after the break, if you're not yet sufficiently pumped up for game day: August 10.

Gallery: Madden NFL 11

Continue reading Madden 11 videos chant new 'Simpler, Quicker, Deeper' design mantra

Madden 11 videos chant new 'Simpler, Quicker, Deeper' design mantra originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Drew Brees discusses 'Madden Curse,' fan voting for Madden NFL 11 cover

David Hinkle — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST

Even people who avoid sports like the plague know that there is a certain "curse" associated with being on the cover of a Madden game. This year's cover boy, New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees, ain't sweatin' it though -- "it is what it is, but I look at it as a challenge," he told ESPN. Heck of a "challenge," Mr. Brees. The majority of your predecessors didn't fare so well.

On a more positive note, Brees also offered some of his opinions on the voting that led to his appearance on the Madden NFL 11 cover. "This game is driven by the fans, so it means so much more to me and to all the Saints players because we understand the bond we've had with our fans and with our city. Certainly when the fans have spoken, that means so much."

The ESPN interview is pretty insightful, including brief talk on the new Hit Stick controls, as well as GameFlow and GamePlan, the pair of managerial game types available in Madden NFL 11. Hit up the source link and give it a read.

[Thanks, Zoot Suit Jedi]

Drew Brees discusses 'Madden Curse,' fan voting for Madden NFL 11 cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden 11 demo is Jets vs. Colts, will release in 'late July'

David Hinkle — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST

Hot on the heels of the Madden NFL 11 announcement revealing Drew Brees for the cover, the votes have been tallied for the teams featured in the requisite pre-release demo: it'll be the Jets vs. Colts. The news comes via the official Madden NFL site, where voting was opened in late March to decide whether the demo would recreate the AFC Championship game, the NFC Championship game or the Super Bowl. There must've been a lot of disgruntled Jets fans voting in that poll.

Anxious to know when to expect the demo, Joystiq contacted EA Sports. A spokesperson was kind enough to reveal that the developer was aiming to hit the virtual gridiron sometime in "late July."

Madden 11 demo is Jets vs. Colts, will release in 'late July' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Drew Brees singled out for Madden 11 cover

James Ransom-Wiley — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:40:00 EST

Boy, how quickly it all can change: One moment you're leading America's darling Saints to a Super Bowl victory and the next you're cursed by the very same fans that cheered you on. Such is the fate of New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees, who has almost certainly been afflicted with the "Madden Curse" following his selection as Madden NFL 11 cover guy. Perhaps unwittingly, fans hexed Brees through an online poll -- each click like a pin prick in a voodoo doll -- and now the Saints ownership must be scrambling to land a backup QB in the NFL draft tonight.

The first shot at Brees' knees will be televised nationally -- always a good betting opportunity -- when the NFL kicks off its regular season with the Saints hosting the Vikings on Thursday, September 9 on NBC. (That is, if Brees even manages to survive the preseason.) Something tells us he's gonna need more than a good luck kiss on the cheek.

Madden 11 will be released on August 10 for Xbox 360, PS3 (and PS2), Wii and PSP. Mobile versions, including an iPhone and iPod Touch release, will also be available.

Drew Brees singled out for Madden 11 cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA shifting ad sales in-house starting with Madden NFL 11

David Hinkle — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:30:00 EST

EA's been keen on in-game advertising since 2006, and, two years ago, signed a pretty big deal with in-game ad provider Massive. Apparently, though, EA won't be re-upping that agreement. As Mediaweek reports, the publisher has instead decided to take it upon itself to coordinate in-game ad sales starting with Madden NFL 11.

Elizabeth Harz from EA's global media sales division says it's basically a situation in which EA is cutting out the middle man. "Fundamentally, [EA sales execs] are talking about these gaming audiences everyday already," meaning that EA is already discussing who's playing and what products would best target those audiences.On its own, EA can create more diverse and specific advertising packages, with increased ability to personalize packages based on the potential advertisers' targeted demographic. Exciting stuff, we know.

[Via Game Politics]

EA shifting ad sales in-house starting with Madden NFL 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports mines your football data, and makes example out of Favre

Kevin Kelly — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:40:00 EST

Brett Favre is one of the all-time greats. Still, he throws one untimely interception, and that's all people talk about. Just imagine if he threw 7 and a half million! That's the number EA highlighted during its EA Sports Opener last night in an extraordinary example of the game data the company collects from its players.

According to EA, Favre -- under our control -- has thrown 7,564,282 picks and counting. That's Hall of Shame material for sure. Each game of Madden played generates a single line of code, and that code gets sent to EA to the tune of over 173 million data instances every day. The company is mining all of this data in an attempt to make its Madden and NCAA Football games better every time you play them, but short of John Madden himself showing up at your door to explain what you're doing wrong, look for Favre to keep adding to the INT column.

Gallery: EA Sports Opener

EA Sports mines your football data, and makes example out of Favre originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports supports 'Project Ten Dollar,' out to 'digitize' Madden consumers

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST

Watch out, Madden consumer, 'cause Peter Moore is coming -- and he's gonna digitize you. In a speech at the Morgan Stanley Technology Conference yesterday, the EA Sports prez said, "I think we need to move much quicker, in particular with Madden, through a digital world ... you're going to see more announcements there how we digitize our Madden consumer." He was likely referring to the currently "burning" business model that revolves around disc-based media, a topic Moore has remained outspoken about for some time now.

In his eyes, rather than focusing on moving more units which each year's release, EA Sports should instead be looking at "How do I get an extra $4 or $5 dollars?" from the already existing 6 million person-strong install base. He insisted that, in line with the company's "Project Ten Dollar" aspirations, digital content keeps gamers from trading in their titles. "It keeps the disc in the drive longer, it stalls trading the game in, it allows me to be able to take further advantage of that consumer over a longer period of time." We'd like to remind you that Moore was speaking to a group of financial analysts, so when he talked about being able to "further take advantage" of you, he meant it in the nicest way possible. Promise.

He finished up by promising that future EA Sports titles will have new business models that allow for a customer to trade in their annualized sports games while simultaneously granting EA the ability to earn money from that customer -- a "best of both worlds" take on the transition from retail to digital, if you will. We'll see what happens in the not-too-distant future, as Moore also promised "We're [EA] certainly going to do a lot of that this year."

EA Sports supports 'Project Ten Dollar,' out to 'digitize' Madden consumers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports honors 'Game Changers' in its online communities

Mike Schramm — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST

Over the weekend, EA Sports announced a new community influencers program that it's calling "Game Changers" -- the idea is that the publisher will choose big EA sports fans who use their online community know-how "to improve the experience and overall growth of the EA SPORTS Community." Presumably, you have to yell "EA Sports" whenever you say it, which would be why the name is in all caps. The chosen few will get early access to EA games, as well as represent the community while giving feedback on future releases.

They've picked nine guys (no girls) so far, all of whom are active in the various EA communities and forums. They've also posted a video of the program's kickoff, and while we were totally going to make fun of it for sounding like a cliched sports team ("It's the dream of a lifetime, we just go out there to do our best" and so on), that Anton B dude actually gets a little choked up at the end after being honored with Game Changer of the Month. So all right, Anton, we get it. This Game Changers thing may not mean too much to the rest of us (just like the Xbox Ambassador program, it's just a way for the company to connect directly with their community), but everybody's got to have their thing, and this is yours. Rock on for that.

EA Sports honors 'Game Changers' in its online communities originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You can choose the Madden 11 cover athlete

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST

Another year, another Madden cover announcement. But wait, this year has a twist! EA and Doritos have teamed up with a unique promotion, allowing fans to vote on who they want to grace the cover of this year's annual gridiron update. The three candidates for this year's cover include Vikings' defensive end Jared Allen, Saints quarterback Drew Brees, and Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne.

It may be tempting to choose your favorite athlete out of the bunch, but we urge you to play it smart. Instead, think about this as a strategic opportunity to inflict the Madden Curse on your most hated team! Best of all, you can vote every day to inflict as much negative karma as possible.

In addition to being able to decide who lands the cover of Madden 11, the Doritos-sponsored promotion also offers entry into a contest. Most notably, the weekly grand prize is a trip for two to see the NFL Draft in New York City this April. Considering you don't have to buy a single bag of Doritos to participate, this promo seems like a must for any NFL fan.

You can choose the Madden 11 cover athlete originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'PA Commentator' software beefs up commentary in sports games

Justin McElroy — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Commentary in sports video games has come a long way. It's a little known but relatively true fact that for the first few years, the only commentary in any game was John Madden saying "Boom! He's on his back!" (This was especially confusing in luge-centric titles.)

Phonetic Arts is promising to push the limit even further with its newly-announced PA Commentator, which it claims will greatly improve the fluidity and diversity in sports game commentary by combining existing words to form new lines that pertain to the onscreen play. The tech's officially being launched at Microsoft's GameFest Feb. 10 and 11, so hopefully we'll get to hear it in action soon.

'PA Commentator' software beefs up commentary in sports games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden predicts Saints win Super Bowl XLIV

James Ransom-Wiley — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:40:00 EST

If the "Madden Curse" is the unflapping revenge exacted by the fowl spirit of the Great Turducken, its devoured body unceremoniously carved up by the bare hands of John Madden on national television those many years ago (seriously, go wikipedia that joint), then the annual "Madden NFL Super Bowl Simulation" is just ... plain math.

In the latest case of crunching the numbers, Madden 10 has predicted the New Orleans Saints to be winners of this Sunday's Super Bowl XLIV over the Indianapolis Colts. It was a real nail biter, EA recalls: "with minutes left in the game the duo of Joseph Addai and Peyton Manning put the Colts back on top with a go-ahead touchdown pass. With the game hanging in the balance, Drew Brees hits David Thomas for an 11-yard touchdown and the game winning score." The final: 35-31.

But more intriguing than the projected outcome of a mere sporting event is EA Sports' coveted simulation formula, which has become scary good. Not only did it correctly predict the winners of the conference championship games a few Sundays ago within a three-point margin of error, according to EA Sports, the formula accurately played out last year's Super Bowl down to the final score and individual player stats, which begs the question: What can't it predict?

We'd like to put a request in to EA to simulate next week's retail showdown: BioShock 2 vs. Dante's Inferno. Place your bets now!

Gallery: Madden NFL 10 Super Bowl XLIV Simulation

Madden predicts Saints win Super Bowl XLIV originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA: Medal of Honor, Dead Space 2, Crysis 2 before March 2011

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:45:00 EST

During EA's half-hour investor callstravaganza yesterday, CEO John Riccitiello unleashed a flurry of game titles set to be released in the company's "FIscal 2011." For EA, that falls anywhere between April 1, 2010 and March 30, 2011 -- a window that now holds the release of "a great new version of Medal of Honor, a revitalized Need for Speed, Sims on console, FIFA in a World Cup year, an innovative and new take on Madden, Dead Space 2, Crysis at full margins, a new MMA game, and many others."

Considering this laundry list of games is getting little more than a 12-month window for release, we're taking the logical next step and throwing darts at images of the games on our cork-board calendar. According to our impeccable aim... everything is coming out in November. Not helpful!

[Via Eurogamer]

EA: Medal of Honor, Dead Space 2, Crysis 2 before March 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Madden Ultimate Team now available on Xbox 360 and PS3

David Hinkle — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST

If you've grown tired with tossing around the virtual pigskin for the last six months, then you may want to check out Madden NFL 10's free DLC, Madden Ultimate Team. Available as a free title update on the Xbox 360 and PS3, Madden Ultimate Team turns the football experience into a trading card game, allowing players to construct custom teams using collectible cards.

Upon initial start-up, you'll receive a starter pack with one coach, some players, an offensive and defensive playbook and home and away jerseys. You can then match your constructed team up against the CPU or take on a human opponent via online, where your performance will net you coins to purchase more cards.

You can check out a tutorial of the new mode above, but also feel free to get a closer glimpse at the cards and interface via the images in our gallery below. Or, you know, just boot up your copy of Madden NFL 10.

Gallery: Madden Ultimate Team mode

Madden Ultimate Team now available on Xbox 360 and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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