EA has a free trial weekend on Madden so decided to give it a go. I gotta say that this is the best feeling Madden in years. My favorite game of all time was NCAA football because it played so well. The animations were good and much better than Madden. Madden tried to get cute with their animations and it felt like you lost control of your player anytime they kicked in.

They changed the mechanics in 2024 and although it isn't perfect, it is much better! The secondary actually responds like real secondary would.

I'm not sure I'll buy it or just wait until college football comes out next summer but curious to hear others' opinions.

Have they improved franchise mode? I bought 23 last year to play franchise mode and was annoyed to find out your team's success when simming games was dependent on what your offensive playbook was. You could have the best team in the league but miss the playoffs if you didn't use like 1 of 3 playbooks.

Agree. Played a little on the free trial they're offering and picked classic mode or whatever its called as my play style. In game, its the best feeling Madden in a long time. Didn't try any other modes aside from a quick exhibition. Still wouldn't pick it up at full price, but when it comes down to $30 or $20 I'll probably pick it up.

Thanks for posting this. I think I'll try it as well. It usually goes down to $35 in late October or November so I'll get it then.