Summary

I've been playing Madden since 1996 and there has never been a better release. I don't understand the low review scores, but this installment is the most exciting and rewarding release of this franchise to date. Take the time to learn the many features which make this game stand out from the rest, and you will be rewarded with a realistic sports gaming experience second to none!

Sound

Madden actually says some original things in this years game thank goodness. If I heard him say, "He did the right thing, concentrated and caught the ball" on a fair catch one more time as with 2002 and 2003, I was going to wretch. Al Michaels is a bit monotone, and doesn't get real excited over, well, anything, but again, I can overlook it, as I'm a little immersed in what I'm going to call on my next play anyway. When the referee talks on a penalty, or a challenge you can't hear him, something with needs improvement as I would like to know if my 45 yard gain was reversed or not. I do hope next years commentary is improved, but the other features of this game make up for an average performance in the booth.

Gameplay

Yes, this game is more difficult to play than any previous Madden. There are more interceptions, but only if you throw into a crowd. A little practice on the many game play features are extremely rewarding. The blocking hot routes and being able to change a play on the fly are extremely realistic and more importantly functional. The running backs finally turn on a dime opposed to the slow reaction of previous releases, the passing and running games are more challenging, which I guess frustrates some gamers. You won’t complete every pass, or gain 8 on every run. Do they in the NFL? The main complaint I don't understand is the "Lack of plays in your play book." There are more than ever in this years Madden. More offensive and defensive alignments and blitzes, and the "Playmaker" function adds much more flexibility even after the play is called. Not enough plays still? Check out the "Create your own play" feature, and get creative. I personally don't want to cycle through endless plays while the play clock clicks down. There are ample plays for the most advanced gamer. Another improvement is you can no longer call the same plays over and over. The AI is much improved. The defense line will shift as it sniffs out your play calling tendencies which forces you to be more creative with each offensive drive, and don’t call same defense too many times either. The AI will take advantage of what you give it and light you up. I love that! The controls are simple, not easy, and react as quickly as you summon your command. Is the game perfect? Not a chance. It's a video game after all; but if you want to get as close to being an NFL coach as you can get, Madden 2004 is quite an adrenaline rush. Be creative, mix your plays, don't throw into crowds, and have a blast!

Summary

I got this game for christmas. It's an awsome game, however if you're coming off of the 2k3 series then it will take some time to get used to. This game is very realistic. It is better than ESPN NFL 2k4. 2k4 is too easy, such as the running game. Also, when you create a player, you create EVERY aspect of him. You can edit everything from his tattoos and haircut to how muscular he is. You can have him very weak but still look like he's jacked on steroids. Also, you create every attribute about him. Example, when creating a qb, it lets you decide how he can block, catch the ball and such. However, they do not affect his overall rating.

Sound

Great, except when the ref is anouncing a penalty you can't hear him.

Gameplay

Great, very realistic. It should be live, but it's not.