Madden NFL 20
- August 2, 2019
- EA Orlando
Madden NFL 20 doesn't reinvent the wheel, but the X-factor and Superstar system, combined with Face of the Franchise and a number of smart additions to Franchise and Ultimate Team make it a winner, despite its ongoing bugs and glitches.
Madden NFL 20 is a football simulation game with a focus on realism and authenticity. The new "Face of the Franchise: QB1" mode allows players to become an NFL superstar, while the "Superstar X-Factor" feature showcases the unique abilities of real-life players. The game features good mechanics, pretty visuals and is available for single-player experience.
PC
Playstation 4
Playstation 5
Xbox One
Xbox Series X|S
Cloud
Ea Origin
NVIDIA GeForce NOW
PlayStation
Xbox
Reviews
- Madden 20 features improved gameplay with fluid controls and responsive mechanics, making it enjoyable to play.
- The graphics are vibrant and visually appealing, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- New features like the X-Factor abilities and Face of the Franchise mode add depth and variety to the game.
- Frequent patches have introduced new bugs and inconsistencies, making gameplay frustrating at times.
- Franchise mode has seen little innovation, feeling stale and similar to previous iterations.
- Some gameplay mechanics, such as AI behavior and defensive controls, can be inconsistent and lead to frustrating experiences.
- graphics18 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
Overall, the graphics in Madden 20 are praised for their fluidity and high framerate, particularly on the PS4 Pro, with many users noting significant improvements compared to previous versions. While some feel the graphics have plateaued since the PS4's launch, the consensus is that they remain impressive and contribute positively to the gaming experience. However, there are occasional glitches, particularly with specific in-game graphics during critical moments.
“The game is fluid with a great framerate on a PS4 Pro, with fantastic graphics.”
“I continue to be impressed as the graphics of the Madden games improve and improve.”
“This is the best Madden I’ve played in a long time since Madden 25, and that’s saying something. The QB1 mode is amazing; the graphics are awesome, hands down the best I’ve ever played.”
“Graphically, this game has been the same since PS4 came out.”
“Engine is a little faster, graphically it's smoother but not better.”
“Graphics are so-so.”
- gameplay17 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The gameplay in Madden 20 has received mixed reviews, with some players noting improvements in fluidity and AI, while others criticize inconsistencies in mechanics like pass blocking and overall smoothness. Many users feel that despite some enhancements, the core gameplay remains similar to previous versions, leading to a lack of significant innovation. Overall, while some aspects are praised, the gameplay experience can vary widely depending on individual preferences and recent patches.
“I want a game that is fun, with realistic gameplay, responsive controls, and fluid graphics/framerate.”
“Felt easier to run the ball than last year, but not too easy. The throwing felt crisp with good sound effects, and I love the pump fake mechanic now, which makes double moves more viable.”
“Gameplay is more fluid, AI improved, and is fun as ever!”
“The pass blocking is not normal; either it works perfectly or you will definitely be sacked even if you move in the pocket. I just switched back to Madden 18 and find the gameplay better after adjusting sliders.”
“I am reducing my rating of Madden 20 by 3 stars after the 18 patches and many hours of gameplay.”
“No real improvements; gameplay is goofy at points.”
- stability10 mentions
- 10 % positive mentions
- 10 % neutral mentions
- 80 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users reporting numerous glitches, particularly in tackling and commentary, which detract from the overall experience. While some players find the glitches entertaining and the game generally enjoyable, others express frustration with the frequency and impact of these bugs. Overall, the game appears to have significant stability issues that need addressing.
“Madden 20 works for me; good graphics, no glitches, nice and smooth. I've already got two wins, one from the Pro Bowl which started up the game, and the exhibition game works for me. Next time, put playoff mode in there.”
“Incredibly stupid things will happen that are obviously glitches.”
“Many glitches in this year's version.”
“Still a bunch of glitches in commentary, stats, and even finishing games properly. A lot of the upgrades are pretty minor.”
- story4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -25 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The story mode features a college football experience where players are forced to choose from a limited selection of schools before being drafted, resulting in a somewhat cheesy narrative reminiscent of previous modes but lacking depth. While it offers a fun take on career progression, the overall character development and storytelling feel underwhelming compared to earlier iterations.
“You play as a college team, and then you get drafted. It's got a cheesy story, kind of like the Longshot story modes, only with less character.”
“Story mode ditches Longshot for shades of past Superstar mode glory, while Ultimate Team gets a more guided UI experience, keeping players on target.”
“Face of the Franchise is a fun take on career mode, and the addition of X-Factor and Superstar abilities enhances the overall experience.”
“You play as a college team (well, you're forced to pick from 10 schools you may or may not even like), and then you get drafted. It's got a cheesy story, kind of like the Longshot story modes, only with less character.”
“The story mode ditches Longshot for shades of past Superstar mode glory, but it feels lacking in depth and engagement.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the calming, mindless nature of grinding in the game, often enjoying it as a background activity while multitasking. However, some find that the repetitive nature of grinding can become tedious over time, particularly in modes like franchise mode.
“I thought at least the franchise mode would renew my interest in the game, but honestly it became tedious after week 1.”
“Grinding feels more like a chore than an enjoyable part of the game.”
“The repetitive nature of grinding makes it hard to stay engaged with the game.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Many users feel that the game's replayability diminishes significantly after completing the first season, as there is a sense of finality that reduces the incentive to play again.
“But then it sinks in that once you've accomplished all of that in your first season, the replay value really drops.”
“After completing the main storyline, there's little incentive to go back and play again.”
“The lack of meaningful choices means that replaying the game feels more like a chore than an enjoyable experience.”
Critic Reviews
Madden NFL 20 Review – On the Shoulders of Giants
Madden NFL 20 doesn't reinvent the wheel, but the X-factor and Superstar system, combined with Face of the Franchise and a number of smart additions to Franchise and Ultimate Team make it a winner, despite its ongoing bugs and glitches.
80%Madden NFL 20 review
Madden NFL 20 is a great American Football game, and whilst it's better than last year, some of the mainstay modes could do with an overhaul.
80%Madden 20 review: “Like drafting a left tackle with the first overall pick”
Madden NFL 20 clears the roster and properly initiates the rebuilding phase for football’s first franchise.
80%
