As John Madden says - "It's Good!"
Written By Wrecker & Predat0r
The long standing ‘Madden NFL’ gridiron series was first released way back in 1989 on Apple computers and every year since has seen a new version released. Although now retired the man behind the games name, John Madden, is a revered figure in American Pro Football circles, and along with his successful playing and coaching achievements, is perhaps best known here for his knowledgeable special comments and iconic (over) use of the telestrator during television coverage of NFL games. With such longevity it’s little wonder that the ‘Madden’ is the highest revenue generating video game series in North American history. 2009 is no different, as EA celebrates the 21st incarnation (and fourth on the Nintendo Wii), with the release of Madden NFL 10.
Unlike previous versions, which were basically PS2 ports, this latest instalment was designed from the ground up specifically for the Wii. This can be noted almost immediately with the games interface now controlled totally via the Wii Remote’s pointer. The game menus look great and are presented in an animated style featuring large, clear, easy to navigate displays, which are a hallmark of most EA sports titles.
As well as the user interface, the in-game graphics have been given an overhaul from previous incarnations with both the players and stadiums taking on a rather distinct cartoonish look. Instead of retaining the realistic look of the other console versions of
Madden NFL 10, the developer’s style seems geared towards the more typical Wii audience. Although generally much simpler looking, this new make-over works quite well and is definitely suited to the Nintendo console.
The characters in Madden NFL 10 have exaggerated muscles and their builds resemble that of a superhero (which of course to some they are!). They are also distinctly stylised to the positions they play, with wide receivers being tall, lanky and free-flowing whilst defensive linesmen are beefy, awkward-moving units. The animation is smooth though not overly complex and the graphics as a whole are not all that detailed, with the exception being the close-up ‘Spotlight Moments’. The ‘Spotlight Moments’ are the eye candy in the game and play will zoom-in in slow-mo giving these pivotal game moments a dramatic presence.
All of the games stadiums include accentuated real-life features and as such are also somewhat exaggerated. On field the ‘down line’ is displayed clearly along with a graphic of the team in possession. After scoring a touchdown players can execute a celebration manoeuvre, however they’re not as extravagant as one would expect and could have been more animated and imaginative. The replay system present in the game contains excellent camera control and movement resulting in the ability to capture the action from just about every angle possible.
If you’re unfamiliar with American Football or have not experienced a ‘Madden’ title before, fear not, as the ‘All Play’ play call setting narrows the games depth allowing simplified gameplay for the newcomer or casual gamer. If you have the need for greater control over play there is an ‘Intermediate’ and ‘Advanced’ option that have increasing complexity. Deciphering exactly what the formations of plays means does require a bit of an understanding of gridiron, so thankfully if you still have no idea what you’re doing you have the option of allowing John Madden himself to choose a play for you.
If you want to jump straight in and get a taste of the action the ‘Play Now’ mode is the place to go. Up to four players can participate in either a 5-on-5 or 11-on-11 per side match and this is a good place for the uninitiated to learn the basics and get a feel for the game. The 5-on-5 match not only has a smaller playing area, but keeps gameplay options to a minimum, thus simplifying the game even further.
A new mode called ‘Madden Showdown’ allows four players to compete against each other in what is essentially a mini multiplayer tournament. Accumulating the most points during play for successful passes and tackles etc., will see you crowned the champ. Not only can you play with traditional NFL rules but there is the option to spice things up by adding some crazy rules. Called ‘Game Changers’, a couple of the notable ones include ‘Fumblitis’, where everyone gets a bad case of butterfingers, constantly fumbling the ball, and ‘It’s Alive’, where the ball is always deemed to be in play, including incomplete passes being called ‘play on’. These variations on play are great for a few laughs with friends and as such provide a more laid-back form of the game.
It doesn’t end there in ‘Madden Showdown’, with a prediction/betting system adding another dimension to gameplay. Players can bet their points on the outcome of plays, such as the first team to score or who will have the most rushing yards. The more predictions you get correct the more points you’ll gain. And although you may lose the game on the scoreboard at the end of the match the winner is declared as the one with the most points. This novel feature combined with the ‘game changers’, allows those less skilled who are languishing behind a chance to stay in contention.
Another new game mode in
Madden NFL 10 is ‘Road To The Superbowl’ where up to four players cooperate in the challenge of taking their team to the ultimate goal. You have the option of partaking in a full or half season, or you can even commence from the playoffs themselves. Although collectively working as a team, players still retain an individual competitive element as gamers have individual points that accumulate throughout the games. If you’re letting the team down and your performance is not up to scratch then you run the risk of being benched, and getting back on the field remains in your teammates’ hands. Teammates can use their own points to reinstate you, however they may not be so willing, so it’s best not to muck around. Players can drop in and out of games as they please, even during the game, so you don’t have to have everyone there for every single minute of play. For a more immersed mode 5-on-5 is the way to go here as every player is more actively involved in each play.
The controls in Madden NFL 10 are quite intuitive and generally respond well. On offence, to attempt a pass you can either use the traditional D-pad or the new ‘Point And Pass’ system, where you click on a receiver with the pointer and simply push the ‘A’ button to throw. Different speeds of pass can be executed depending on the degree to which you hold the button, a light push for a lob or hold down for a faster flatter one. Conversely the harder you swing on the remote the further you will kick down field or at goal, but not much can go wrong here as it’s extremely easy. When in possession of the ball fending off or baulking defenders is controlled via the buttons or a shake of the Wii Remote. Shaking the nunchuk also buys your quarterback time if he’s being rushed by defenders - that is, if you notice them and your attention is not solely occupied downfield looking for an open receiver. The game requires quick decisions which are symptomatic of the game of gridiron.
Tackling takes some time to get used to and often your computer controlled teammates will beat you to it. Whilst defending in ‘All Play’ mode players can now point and click on an attacker they want covered whom the defenders will hone in on. The game informs you of when you’ve made a good tackle and that is encouraging. At times it can be a little difficult keeping track of who has the ball, especially when you are defending, but you’ll just have to keep an eye out for the ‘highlighted’ ball carrier. It is good that the controls allow your playcalling to be concealed from fellow players, unlike some other sports games.
The point and click system is also utilised in other areas of play such as pre play adjustments, ‘Call Your Shots’ and is generally more refined. Although not 100% precise, ‘Point and Pass’ is overall a welcome addition. The controls as a whole definitely have more of a pick up and play feel than previous versions of Madden and as a result make the game more accessible.
As we’ve come to expect from EA titles, Madden NFL 10 contains an awesome licensed soundtrack. It features a mix of rap/hip-hop tracks from artists including ‘2Pac’, ‘The Beastie Boys’ and the legendary ‘Public Enemy’, as well as heavy metal tunes from the likes of ‘Slipknot’, ‘System Of A Down’ and classic acts such as Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden. Other well known respected bands, such a ‘Nirvana’ and ‘Rage Against The Machine’ are included too and it’s good to see Aussie band ‘Airborne’ getting a gig also. The music suits the game perfectly and even has the effect of getting you fired up to play.
The game’s sound effects are OK but at times sound a little ‘put on’ as if they were obviously recorded in a studio and don’t have that on-field realism. Pre-game intros have speech and the in-game commentary is pretty good. Comments relate well to the actual plays taking place and there are some quite humorous lines, although there are some pauses with a bit more enthusiasm needed at times. It’s just a pity that John Madden isn’t part of the commentary team.
Online co-op is available in Madden NFL 10 and you can challenge friends as well as strangers to a game. It runs well and we experienced no issues in the few games we attempted. The game does not cater for the new MotionPlus add-on however which is rather perplexing considering other recently released EA sports titles do. Nonetheless this ‘Madden’ title offers a wide range of variety that we’ve come to expect.
The Final Verdict
Madden NFL 10 has a distinct new look and feel that makes it more approachable by a wider audience. It still retains that authentic ‘Madden’ feel, just with an added injection of fun. Putting more emphasis on this fun side, rather than going with the tried and trusted realistic side works just fine on the Wii and gives this version a much easier pick up and play style than ever before. With various new multiplayer game modes and refined controls and play options there is undoubtedly some good gaming to be had here. Those faithful to the series may question the new direction the game has taken but must remember that this is what the Wii is all about. For the die-hard ‘Madden’ fans out there the other consoles may offer a more authentic experience. But give it a go on the Wii, you may find that you’ll actually enjoy it - it is well worth a look for any sports fan. Now if only EA would take on an AFL game.
Gameplay
7.5/10
Entertaining new multiplayer game modes and a more user friendly approach makes this edition of ‘Madden’ more accessible to a wider audience. Refined controls with a new ‘Point And Pass’ system. Traditional ‘Madden’ modes are unaltered from last year.
Graphics
7.5/10
Fresh new cartoon style characters and stadiums and a simpler looking interface works well on the Wii.
Sound
8.0/10
Excellent licensed hip-hop/metal soundtrack, adequate sound effects and some worthy commentary, although would have preferred John Madden doing special comments.
Value
8.5/10
‘Madden’ games are always in-depth. This version contains new Wii specific multiplayer game modes. Traditional modes require unlocking and are not updated. Online co-op but no MotionPlus capability.
Overall
7.9/10
Madden NFL 10 opens the series to the Wii audience in a more convenient manner, with gameplay and visuals that are more appealing than those that ‘Madden’ typically offers.
Contains both the competitive multiplayer component as well as the deeper single player modes. This ‘party take’ on the series is best played with others and should appeal to those looking for a less serious approach.