Madden NFL 25
- August 15, 2024
- Tiburon
- 20h median play time
"EA SPORTS™ Madden NFL 25 and Deluxe Edition offer enhanced football gameplay with FieldSENSE™ physics, a variety of bonuses and virtual currency options. Pre-order to receive early access, player items, and strategy items. In-game purchases for additional virtual content are available."
Reviews
- The game features one of the best soundtracks in Madden history, enhancing the overall experience.
- Gameplay improvements, including better tackling mechanics and smoother animations, make it more enjoyable than previous iterations.
- Franchise mode has seen some updates, making it more engaging for players who enjoy building and managing their teams.
- The game suffers from numerous bugs and crashes, making it unplayable for many users, especially in Superstar mode.
- Franchise mode lacks significant improvements and still feels shallow compared to other sports games.
- Controller support is inconsistent, with many players experiencing remapping issues and input lag.
- gameplay110 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 62 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The gameplay in the latest installment has received mixed reviews, with some praising improvements in mechanics, animations, and realism, while others criticize persistent glitches, sluggishness, and a lack of significant innovation compared to previous versions. Many players note that while certain aspects, like tackling and physics, have seen enhancements, core gameplay issues and AI problems remain frustratingly prevalent. Overall, the experience is described as a blend of minor advancements overshadowed by ongoing technical issues and a sense of stagnation in the franchise.
“Offensive and defensive schemes adapted more dynamically, adding realism to the gameplay.”
“The gameplay feels very responsive, realistic, and smooth. It doesn't feel cheesy; the run game feels great, and the passing game feels excellent. The new physics make tackling and hit-sticking much more satisfying.”
“The collisions feel really good, and the gameplay feels snappy.”
“Gameplay hasn't improved in 10 years.”
“But the glitches still in this game make it unplayable, getting tackled by air, with passing just as exploitable as ever... Frostbite engine is horrible, they can change the name but it's still the same craptastic gameplay.”
“The gameplay is sluggish (lags) and unresponsive when I hit the button on my Xbox controller, making it frustrating to control players during crucial moments.”
- stability71 mentions
- 4 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 96 % negative mentions
The game's stability is heavily criticized, with numerous reports of glitches, bugs, and crashes that significantly hinder gameplay. Many players express frustration over persistent issues that have plagued the series for years, including unresponsive controls and broken mechanics. While some users report a smoother experience, the overwhelming consensus is that the game feels unfinished and riddled with technical problems, making it difficult to enjoy.
“Plays good, runs pretty well, surprisingly no glitches or anything (that I've seen/encountered) with things like higher frame rates 200+.”
“Looks great, runs great, plays great.”
“Runs great in handheld on my ROG Ally and also shows great performance on desktop.”
“Game is extremely buggy and many features do not work as intended.”
“Unbelievably buggy and unstable.”
“Game constantly freezes or crashes in the middle of playing.”
- graphics57 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game have received mixed reviews, with many praising their quality and improvements over previous iterations, highlighting enhanced animations and overall presentation. However, some users have reported significant issues, including crashes and glitches, particularly when adjusting settings, which detracts from the experience. While the visuals are generally considered good, there are criticisms regarding the lack of innovation and the persistence of some outdated elements.
“The presentation is top-notch, with better menus and the best graphics we've seen in a football game.”
“I love this game... perfect graphics and great realism, nice tackling physics, great scoreboard, jumbotron, and commentary crews.”
“The graphics finally look like they should, the franchise mode is different enough and better than it has been in years.”
“Graphically subpar for a 2025 game.”
“The user interface looks like a direct lift from last year’s game, and the entire aesthetic lacks fresh ideas.”
“In 2024, it's frustrating that the crowd graphics still resemble something from a PS2.”
- optimization23 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 43 % neutral mentions
- 35 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users reporting significant performance issues, bugs, and frame rate drops, particularly on PC. While some players have experienced stable performance on mid-range setups, others have found the game poorly optimized overall, leading to immersion problems and gameplay frustrations. A few users noted improvements in menu navigation and franchise mode speeds, but the consensus leans towards dissatisfaction with the game's optimization.
“The animations are clean, and performance is good.”
“Stable game with good performance on a mid rig (1660 Super).”
“This year's Madden has been optimized, increasing speeds between menus and progressing through each week in franchise mode.”
“Horribly optimized for PC.”
“The big negative for this game, however, is the performance and bugs.”
“However, the game is poorly optimized and you will suffer from constant framerate issues, no matter how far above the recommended specs of your PC setup is.”
- music19 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising it as one of the best soundtracks in Madden history, featuring a diverse selection that includes rock music alongside rap. However, others criticize the overall music choice as lacking quality, with many songs feeling like "placeholder" tracks. Despite these differing opinions, the soundtrack is noted to enhance the game's presentation and atmosphere.
“Offers great graphics and voice detail with the announcers, and great music as always!”
“When you start the game it truly feels as if you're stepping into an official presentation of the national football league, even the music matches.”
“Bonus points: the soundtrack is also 🔥”
“The music, as always, is horrendous at best.”
“The overall music choice is awful and almost every song is just rap.”
“Even simple things like the music in a lot of spots felt like placeholder music.”
- monetization18 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy in the latest Madden game has drawn significant criticism, with many players feeling that the focus on microtransactions, particularly in modes like Ultimate Team and Superstar, detracts from the overall experience. Users describe the game as a "cash grab," highlighting the prevalence of in-game ads and multiple currencies that push players towards spending more money, often at the expense of gameplay quality and single-player content. Overall, the heavy reliance on pay-to-win mechanics and the lack of meaningful updates have left many feeling frustrated and disillusioned.
“Ultimate Team remains heavily focused on microtransactions, which could be a turnoff if you dislike pay-to-win elements or the grind of earning top players without spending extra money.”
“EA cares about in-game purchases, not the core game.”
“It's no longer about the single-player experience; it's all about microtransactions and gambling.”
“The last time I bought a Madden game it was Madden 22, and I decided that I wouldn't be buying them every year anymore because it is clear that EA just treats this game as a cash grab, and won't update anything that doesn't directly make them money from microtransactions.”
“It's no longer about the single player experience and it's all about microtransactions & gambling.”
“Pop-up ads are constantly in your face, pushing towards online 'pay to win' game modes like Madden Ultimate Team and Superstar Showdown.”
- story13 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game has received largely negative feedback, with players expressing disappointment over the lack of engaging narratives and the repetitive nature of the storyline. Many feel that the game has strayed from previous iterations that offered more compelling storylines, and current features, such as player storylines and commentary, are criticized for being poorly executed or non-existent. Overall, players are frustrated with the missed potential for a richer storytelling experience in the game.
“This year's Madden has a different story.”
“One year had a storyline that was fun and enjoyable, but they have moved away from that in the last few Maddens.”
“For instance, if I don't sit my rookie QB, there should be a story that follows that, like the development points for him if he does sit.”
“Same old story, same old Madden.”
“The commentary is awful; sometimes only one person on the team is talking to themselves, and player storylines are just about non-existent or completely missing.”
“I swear I can create a better storyline in my head than the one that is being forced on me.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is often derived from its frustrating mechanics, such as frequent crashes and a pay-to-win model, which some players find amusing if they can maintain a lighthearted perspective. While the game aims for a serious simulation experience, its shortcomings can lead to unintentional comedy, appealing to those with a sense of humor about its flaws.
“You just might find yourself occasionally chuckling at a system that needs another year or two in the oven.”
“This could be a pro if you have a sense of humor about it like I do, but I put it here since the game is intended as a simulation.”
“The game is so pay to win it's funny.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find that while grinding is necessary to achieve success and acquire top players, it can be time-consuming and somewhat hindered by laggy menus and server issues. Additionally, there is a perception of a pay-to-win element, although dedicated players can still progress through effort and persistence.
“All of the modes are great, but it is a little pay-to-win. Still, it is possible to get good; it just takes a lot of time and grinding.”
“The menus lag on every action, making navigation tedious.”
“Thanks to a lot of luck and a lot of grinding, I have been able to accumulate all the best cornerbacks you can currently have in the game (Joey Porter Jr., Charles Woodson, Nate Wiggins, Night Train Lane).”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its immersive qualities, with realistic crowd sounds and updated broadcast presentations that enhance the overall experience. Players feel a strong sense of presence in the stadiums, and recent improvements have further enriched the unique atmosphere of each venue.
“The atmosphere of the game has always been superb; when you play, and you hear the crowd and the commentators, it really feels like you're actually there.”
“The game features updated broadcast teams and a fresh presentation, which adds a new layer of immersion.”
“Two years ago I asked EA to improve the quality of the stadiums, and above all the atmosphere specific to each stadium.”
“If you care about the atmosphere of the game, these enhancements could make a difference in your experience.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
Users express frustration with the game's replayability, citing concerns about the developers' commitment to quality and playability. However, some note that the game feels more realistic and playable compared to previous iterations, suggesting potential for a more engaging experience. Overall, opinions on replayability are mixed, with some players finding improvements while others remain skeptical.
“The replayability in this game is fantastic; every playthrough feels fresh and engaging.”
“I love how the game offers different paths and choices, making each run unique and exciting.”
“With so many unlockable features and challenges, I find myself coming back for more every time.”
“Stay away from EA as they obviously don't care if their games and code are playable or not.”
“The lack of meaningful content updates makes it hard to find reasons to replay the game.”
“Once you've completed the main story, there's little incentive to dive back in.”