Madden NFL 17
- August 23, 2016
- EA Sports
The best (and only!) football game for consoles returns, maintaining all the on-field excitement, and offering enough improvements, to please the most seasoned veteran.
Madden NFL 17 is a football video game that offers a complete NFL experience with its balanced gameplay, deepest commentary, and various modes such as Franchise, Ultimate Team, and Draft Champions. The game introduces the Ball-Carrier Feedback System, which provides new prompts and path assist to help identify defensive threats and execute special moves. The Pass & Rush Counters simplify play-calling on defense, allowing players to make strategic decisions and rely on realistic defensive AI to stop the offense.
Playstation 4
Playstation 5
Xbox One
Xbox Series X|S
PlayStation
Xbox
Reviews
- Madden NFL 17 features improved gameplay mechanics, particularly in the running game, making it more balanced and enjoyable compared to previous iterations.
- The new commentary team adds freshness and variety, enhancing the overall presentation and immersion of the game.
- Franchise mode has seen significant improvements, including better player progression and training systems, making it more engaging for players.
- Despite some improvements, many players feel that Madden NFL 17 does not offer enough innovation compared to its predecessor, feeling more like an incremental update.
- The game suffers from various bugs and glitches, particularly in Franchise mode, which can disrupt gameplay and lead to frustrating experiences.
- Some players have reported issues with the kicking mechanics and AI behavior, which can detract from the overall realism and enjoyment of the game.
- gameplay47 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The gameplay in this year's Madden NFL has seen significant improvements, particularly in running and blocking mechanics, making it feel more authentic and engaging than previous versions. While there are still some programming glitches and issues with certain gameplay elements, the overall experience is enhanced by new features, better graphics, and a variety of modes that cater to both new and veteran players. The game maintains its classic feel while evolving to provide a more satisfying and realistic football experience.
“The gameplay feels a little better to me; they've added some things like close-ups when the receiver catches it and some more realistic defense plays, but they could add some new offensive plays for once!”
“There has been a lot of changes and updates over the years, and the gameplay this year is fantastic, as well as the graphics which can't be beat.”
“Once again, Madden NFL 17 has maintained the classic Madden gameplay while also evolving it and making games feel more open and exciting.”
“My issues are with the clunky gameplay, the strange glitches, and the constant injuries and penalties in franchise mode.”
“Fresh coat of paint on the same old broken gameplay.”
“The connected franchise mode gameplay is horrible.”
- graphics28 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The graphics in the latest installment show noticeable improvements over previous versions, with many users praising their sharpness and detail. However, some players feel that the updates are not significant enough to distinguish it from last year's game, citing issues with player likenesses and overall realism. While the visuals are generally well-received, there are still legacy concerns that detract from the overall experience.
“The graphics are sharp and look really good.”
“The graphics are crisp and the gameplay is smooth.”
“The graphics are amazing (obviously), and the physics engine is phenomenal.”
“First, Madden 17 graphics look almost identical to last year's version, Madden 16. This isn’t growth in this system, when you still have player faces that look terrible, character body types that aren't realistic to their human counterparts, and arenas and domes that still don't look or give off that realistic feel of an actual NFL game.”
“The graphics and animation are a slight improvement over last year's game, but aren't very noticeable unless you play this version right after playing last year's version.”
“It has flashy, eye-catching visuals at times, but the shimmer fades rather quickly and soon you are left with the same old game you probably already have collecting dust on a shelf from 4 years ago.”
- music13 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 31 % neutral mentions
- 54 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received largely negative feedback, with many users describing the soundtrack as inconsistent, grating, and generally unappealing. While some appreciate the fresh commentary updates, the overall sentiment is that the music detracts from the experience, leading players to lower the volume or seek ways to mute it entirely.
“Update 2.0: pros - the commentary is fresh, and I believe that they will continue to update it throughout the season (along with the music).”
“Awesome soundtrack.”
“Also, the soundtrack is a dumpster fire, if you care about that.”
“Negatives: steep learning curve (I have owned every Madden game from 1992-2015), occasional franchise frozen loading screen, the music is terrible.”
“Unfortunately, the menu soundtrack is grating in the extreme.”
- stability9 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Overall, the stability of the latest Madden game shows improvement over its predecessor, with many users noting a reduction in glitches. However, some players still experience issues such as freezing during tutorials and various gameplay bugs, leading to mixed reviews regarding its overall stability. While there are enhancements in gameplay options, persistent glitches and clunky mechanics remain a concern for many users.
“Decreased to 2 stars as the game continuously freezes on the MUT tutorial loading screen.”
“At this time I am only giving it 3 stars because I have seen quite a few glitches in it that need to be fixed.”
“As mentioned in a previous review, Madden 17 is buggy.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by its entertaining "ant mode" in the gauntlet, as well as the amusingly poor post-play collision detection, which adds a comedic element to the gameplay experience.
“There's no lag online, and I love the gauntlet, which has a hilarious 'ant mode'.”
“[Hilariously poor post-play collision detection.]”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the franchise is criticized for its reliance on microtransactions, particularly in the Ultimate Team mode, which many players view as a cash grab. While the game includes advertised features like full editing and the ability to play or skip key moments, the overall experience is marred by a lack of realism in player models and subpar commentary.
“The franchise has all the features that they have been advertising, like full editing, playing (or skipping) key moments, or playing only offense/defense.”
“Player models still lack realism between plays, the commentary team is lackluster, and Ultimate Team still feels like a blatant cash grab.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight that the revamped gameplay and enhancements to franchise mode significantly boost replayability, while the diverse movesets and improved mechanics provide players with a well-rounded experience. Additionally, minor changes and an impressive presentation contribute to a lasting appeal, making players feel engaged and valued throughout their playtime.
“The revamped rushing game is much more fun, and the additions to franchise mode greatly increase replayability.”
“Little changes go a long way toward enhancing replay value.”
“Fully loaded movesets offer the opportunity to be a well-rounded player, and improvements to defensive running complement the established passing game.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its impressive visuals and immersive environment, particularly in the improved franchise mode. Additionally, the depth added to the running game enhances the overall experience, contributing to a more engaging atmosphere.
“The game has a great look and atmosphere that truly immerses you in the experience.”
“The atmosphere in the game is captivating, making every moment feel alive and engaging.”
“The improved franchise mode adds to the overall atmosphere, enhancing the depth of gameplay.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find that grinding in solo challenges for Ultimate Team is hindered by excessively long loading times, which can detract from the overall experience.
“Interface loading still takes too long, especially when you're grinding solo challenges in Ultimate Team.”
Critic Reviews
Cruise control initiated: Madden NFL 17 review
Madden NFL 17 boasts some changes that players may not find entirely intriguing. The practice system with franchise has been bumped up, but it still remains a tireless slog that should be avoided. The new commentary duo is breath of fresh air and one that should stick around for years to come. While making the special teams useful again was nice, the on-field action has changed very little. Madden NFL 17 feels like more Madden NFL 16, which isn't always a bad thing.
80%Madden NFL 17 PS4 Review
Whether a seasoned pro or a first time player, Madden will guide you in the right direction to fun.
80%Madden NFL 17 Review
New running features makes this the most balanced and enjoyable Madden yet, but a few awkward sights and sounds will remind you that it’s just a game.
80%
