| Every year EA Sports releases the latest update in the Madden Franchise. This year obviously the update being Madden NFL 2005. In just a year though the game has come great lengths. I don't care what anyone else says, Madden NFL 2005, is the cream of the crop when it comes to NFL gameplay.
A few changes this year include the new "Create-a-Fan" mode. Madden NFL has offered the opp to create your own team or individual player for quite some time, but now you even have the ability to create "super fans" to motivate your players. These fans go to the extreme with body painting from head to toe, they will stop at nothing to support their favorite team. My favorite aspect of Madden NFL 2005 is the Franchise mode. This was in last years update, but has been expanded even further this year. Now you have "Storyline Central" which keeps you updated on what the latest newspapers are saying about you and your team, as well as what is happening with other teams and players around the league. This can be a tremendous help in a variety of ways. I must say I found it quite entertaining when I moved my Chicago Bears to Los Angeles. The newspapers weren't too happy with my decision. Plus, you now receive emails from your staff, players, their agents, and others around the league - when they're not happy you hear about it! EA Sports Radio, which is hosted by Tony Bruno, adds a new element to the game. From the Sports Radio you can get caught up on all the latest happenings in the league while managing your team.
Madden NFL has really improved this year's graphics as well. The players look real and their movements are even more realistic. One of the most hyped additions to the game is the "Hit Stick" which gives you the ability to slam the ball carrier. This "Hit Stick" can be really great if used at the right time, otherwise it can lose you the game. If you don't time it correctly then your player will hit the ground and you will have no chance at catching the carrier. However, if you do get the timing right then you can sometimes cause a fumble. I typically only use this option if I really want to injury a player or if I'm losing and absolutely need the fumble. I definitely feel the "Hit Stick" is a great addition to the game though. It makes it feel like you are in the game and that you have complete control.
Overall, I feel that Madden NFL 2005 is again the best for NFL gameplay. Each year it is becoming more and more realistic. If you are new to the Madden franchise you will have no problem jumping right in and getting the hang of it. With Madden 101 you can learn all the best plays and Madden will even give you pointers on how to get them perfect. This is my favorite among all the sports games out so far this year.
- Chad Kennedy, Editor-in-Chief
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