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MONSTER

Madden NFL 25

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Madden NFL 25
Item: Madden NFL 25
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresThird Person Perspective, Sports, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 16, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X

DeveloperEA Tiburon

Overview

Madden NFL 25 celebrates 25 years of Madden NFL Football action with Physics You Can Feel from the most authentic NFL game franchise on Earth. EA Sports - It's In The Game.

Elsewhere

7.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

story and narrative

Description unavailable

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 impresses with innovative gameplay improvements like FieldSENSE upgrades, fluid movement, and enhanced physics, earning praise for realism and depth. However, critics note drawbacks such as inconsistent player handling, a steep learning curve for newcomers, and unbalanced gameplay elements that may frustrate less experienced players. Overall, while it's a significant upgrade for seasoned gamers, it risks alienating newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Madden NFL 25 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting several innovative features and improvements that enhance the overall experience. COGconnected praises the introduction of FieldSENSE upgrades and a revamped player movement system, which adds fluidity and nuanced control to gameplay. Forbes echoes this sentiment, noting the comprehensive virtual football experience with new pre-snap adjustments and improved defensive and offensive line play. Critics like GGRecon and God is a Geek emphasize the impressive physics-based tackling and the new hit-stick mechanic, which add depth and realism to the game. Additionally, Twinfinite appreciates the enhanced physics and smarter AI, while GameSpot highlights the mix of run plays and long passes, empowering the offense and making the gameplay more engaging. Despite these positives, several critics point out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall enjoyment of Madden NFL 25. GamesRadar+ mentions a lack of fun factor compared to College Football 25, suggesting that while the mechanics have improved, the enjoyment may not be as high. Game Informer and IGN express mixed feelings about inconsistencies in player contact outcomes and player handling, indicating that some gameplay changes might not resonate well with all players. Furthermore, Push Square criticizes the game for being geared towards experienced players, which could alienate newcomers due to frustrating controls and AI issues. Critics like Dot Esports and GamingTrend also note unbalanced aspects of the running game and gameplay glitches, which can disrupt the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Madden NFL 25 presents a significant upgrade in gameplay mechanics and realism, particularly with its new physics systems and improved AI. However, the mixed reviews regarding player handling, inconsistencies, and the learning curve for new players suggest that there is room for improvement. Critics like GameSpot and NZGamer appreciate the depth added to the gameplay experience, while others caution that some changes may feel excessive or unbalanced. The game seems to cater well to seasoned players who appreciate its simulation aspects, but it may pose challenges for newcomers, highlighting a divide in player experience that developers may need to address in future iterations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 impresses with stunning graphics and lifelike animations on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning high praise for its visual fidelity. Critics highlight significant advancements, but those on Xbox One and PS4 report inconsistencies in player models and animations, indicating room for improvement. Overall, while the game marks progress in visuals, it still falls short of the realism expected from a top-tier sports title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Madden NFL 25 is predominantly positive, particularly among critics who played on the PS5 and Xbox Series X. COGconnected highlighted the "impressive graphical fidelity" and "meticulously crafted player models," praising the lifelike animations and stunning stadium environments. Forbes and GamesRadar+ echoed this sentiment, noting the advancements in visual fidelity with 4K visuals, detailed player scans, and new catching animations. Critics like GGRecon and God is a Geek emphasized the improvements in player interactions and dynamic crowds, while Game Over Online celebrated the significant upgrades in player models and crowd animations, making the game visually appealing and immersive. However, despite the praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics, particularly from those who played on the Xbox One and PS4. Critics such as Game Informer and IGN pointed out inconsistencies in player models, with some noting that character animations and facial renders still require improvement. GameSpot and Giant Bomb echoed these concerns, mentioning issues with player proportions and the lack of realism in certain character models. USgamer was particularly critical, stating that while uniforms and helmets look better, the overall graphical experience does not impress, indicating that the visuals may not meet the expectations set by the current generation of consoles. In summary, while many critics laud the graphical improvements in Madden NFL 25, particularly on the newer consoles, there remains a consensus that there are still significant areas for improvement. The game showcases stunning visual elements, as noted by critics like GamingTrend and ZTGD, but persistent issues with player models and animations detract from the overall experience. The general agreement is that Madden NFL 25 is a step forward in terms of graphics, yet it falls short of achieving the level of realism and polish that players might expect from a flagship sports title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25's sound design and music receive mixed reviews; critics praise dynamic crowd responses and real-life commentary for immersion, but many find the new commentary teams robotic and repetitive, hindering engagement. While improvements are noted, significant shortcomings remain, suggesting more work is needed for a cohesive audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Madden NFL 25 have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting several noteworthy aspects that contribute to the overall gaming experience. Reviewers from sources like God is a Geek and GameSpot praised the dynamic crowd responses and team-specific chants, which significantly enhance the immersive atmosphere of the game. The inclusion of real-life commentators, such as Jim Nantz and Phil Simms, adds authenticity and context to the gameplay, with GameSpot noting how their commentary incorporates historical references and injury updates. Additionally, the introduction of new commentary teams and updated broadcast packages, as mentioned by GGRecon and GamesRadar+, helps to break up the soundscape, providing a refreshing auditory experience that keeps players engaged. On the flip side, many critics expressed concerns regarding the sound design and commentary quality, indicating a mixed reception. COGconnected pointed out that while the commentary is contextually relevant, it can feel robotic and lacks naturalness, particularly with the new teams. Dot Esports and GameCritics echoed this sentiment, criticizing the commentary for being unnatural and repetitive, which detracts from the immersion. Furthermore, Twinfinite highlighted the absence of voice acting in 'Storyline' scenes, which can impact the overall engagement level of the game. Critics like ZTGD also found the soundtrack to be forgettable, suggesting that the audio offerings do not fully meet the expectations of a franchise that has historically emphasized sound design. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided opinion on the sound design and music of Madden NFL 25. While there are commendable elements, such as improved crowd reactions and the introduction of new commentary teams, many reviewers noted significant shortcomings in the commentary's quality and variety. Critics like GameSpot and God is a Geek appreciated the immersive aspects of the sound design, but others like Dot Esports and ZTGD highlighted the repetitive nature of the commentary as a notable flaw. This mixed reception suggests that while Madden NFL 25 has made strides in its audio presentation, there remains room for improvement to achieve a more cohesive and engaging sound experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25's technical performance is a mixed bag. Xbox One enjoys a stable experience with improved menus and loading times, while Xbox Series X shows promise but has some shortcomings. In contrast, PS5 and PS4 versions suffer from serious issues like clipping, server connectivity problems, and slow loading times, leading to a frustrating gameplay experience. Critics agree that while there are advancements, significant technical flaws remain, particularly on PlayStation, necessitating further refinement to achieve a polished game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

38%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Madden NFL 25 has garnered a mixed reception across various gaming platforms. On the Xbox One, critics like God is a Geek reported no major technical issues, highlighting the availability of game modes from previous versions, which suggests a stable experience for players. Additionally, NZGamer noted improvements in menu smoothness and loading times, alongside the introduction of an auto-save feature, indicating a positive step forward for the platform. On the Xbox Series X, while Dot Esports pointed out some shortcomings, the overall experience was still seen as a leap from previous iterations, suggesting that the next-gen capabilities are being utilized to some extent. However, the negatives are more pronounced, particularly on the PS5 and PS4. COGconnected expressed significant concerns about technical hiccups such as noticeable clipping, unreliable server connections, and game freezing, which detracted from the overall experience. Game Informer echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while Madden's next-gen debut on PS4 showed improvement over the last generation, it still required further refinement, particularly regarding AI behavior and physics model accuracy. On the PS4, Push Square also highlighted server issues affecting online play, alongside slow loading times and lag, which are critical for a seamless gaming experience. Meanwhile, on the Xbox One, IGN noted occasional issues with player animations speeding up, which can disrupt gameplay timing. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while there are some positive advancements in technical performance across platforms, significant issues remain that hinder the overall experience. The Xbox One appears to be the most stable platform, with fewer reported problems, while the PS4 and PS5 versions suffer from various technical issues that affect gameplay and online connectivity. Critics like COGconnected and Push Square have raised red flags regarding stability and performance, suggesting that while Madden NFL 25 has made strides, it still requires considerable work to reach a polished state across all platforms. The sentiment across the board reflects a cautious optimism tempered by the recognition of existing flaws that need addressing.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 offers improved customization, deep franchise modes, and engaging gameplay, but critics feel it lacks significant innovation and suffers from limitations in franchise mode and monetization practices. While it caters to dedicated fans, the game may not justify the investment for casual players, leaving many feeling it's on "cruise control." Overall, solid but not groundbreaking, with room for improvement in replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Madden NFL 25 reflect a mix of enhancements and engaging features that some critics appreciate. Notably, Forbes highlights the "enhanced customization options" and the "deep franchise mode," suggesting that these elements contribute significantly to the overall replay value. Critics like GGRecon and God is a Geek also emphasize the various game modes, including Ultimate Team and Superstar, which provide players with diverse gameplay experiences. The improvements in player scouting and stat tracking are seen as positive steps forward, with GameSpot noting that the Connected Franchise and Ultimate Team modes offer depth and complexity that can engage players over the long term. However, despite these positives, many critics express concerns about the limitations and shortcomings of the game. COGconnected mentions that while the franchise mode has been updated, it ultimately fails to create a compelling connection with players, as the promised storyline management feels lackluster. Game Informer and Dot Esports echo this sentiment, pointing out the limited choices and missing features in franchise mode, which could detract from replayability. Additionally, Twinfinite raises issues regarding the always-online requirement for certain modes and the predatory monetization practices associated with Ultimate Team, which may alienate some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Madden NFL 25 offers a solid foundation with some enjoyable features, it falls short of delivering a fully engaging experience. Critics like NZGamer and ZTGD note that the game may not justify the investment for casual players, as many modes feel recycled from previous entries. The improvements in gameplay mechanics and graphics are appreciated, but the lack of significant innovations leaves some players feeling that the game is on "cruise control." Thus, while there is potential for replay value, especially for dedicated fans, the overall reception indicates a need for more substantial improvements to enhance long-term engagement.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Madden NFL 25 from various critics is largely positive, with many praising the game for its strong visuals and gameplay improvements. COGconnected highlights the game as a "strong continuation of the series," noting its stellar visuals and on-field enhancements. Forbes echoes this sentiment, calling it the "most complete version of the series in over a decade," emphasizing the tight gameplay and significant customization options. Critics like God is a Geek also commend the game for being an "undeniably impressive step in the right direction," while Game Over Online describes it as a "must-have" for fans due to its stunning visuals and realistic gameplay. These opinions collectively suggest that Madden NFL 25 successfully builds upon its predecessors, offering a more engaging experience for players. However, despite the praise, several critics point out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. GamesRadar+ mentions that while the game is good, it is not great, particularly when compared to College Football 25, which offers a more enjoyable football experience. Twinfinite notes that while there are solid improvements in gameplay mechanics, many modes feel unchanged from previous entries, and the 'Storyline' scenes lack depth. Additionally, critics like Giant Bomb and Dot Esports express concerns about the game lacking innovation and feeling repetitive, with the former suggesting that it may not be a must-have for new console owners. These criticisms indicate that while improvements exist, the game still falls short in delivering a fresh and innovative experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that Madden NFL 25 is a step forward for the franchise, yet it remains a work in progress. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and NZGamer, agree that the game offers meaningful improvements and is enjoyable, but they also acknowledge that it is not without its flaws. The sentiment is that while Madden NFL 25 has made strides in gameplay and visuals, it still has room for growth, particularly in terms of innovation and depth across various modes. As noted by critics like ZTGD and GamingTrend, the lack of competition in the football game genre may impact the urgency for significant advancements, leaving fans hopeful for future installments that can build on the foundation laid by this release.

TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 impresses with stunning visuals and gameplay improvements, earning praise as a strong continuation of the series. Critics laud it as the most complete version in over a decade but point out significant drawbacks, including a lack of innovation and repetitive modes. While it’s a solid step forward, fans hope for deeper enhancements in future installments.

MONSTER

Reviews

73 reviews found

Game Over Online

PlayStation 4

Dec 20, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 on next-gen consoles is a significant improvement over the current-gen version, offering stunning visuals, realistic gameplay, and enhanced AI, making it a must-have for fans of the series or football enthusiasts.

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Forbes

PlayStation 5

Aug 20, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden 25 is praised as the most complete version of the series in over a decade, with tight gameplay, significant customization improvements, and depth in each mode, making it a highly recommended purchase for Madden fans.

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Cheat Code Central

PlayStation 4

Nov 18, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 on PS4 offers impressive visuals, solid gameplay, and enhanced features that make it the most satisfying Madden game yet, despite playing similarly to the PS3 version.

PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Nov 21, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 for the PlayStation 4 is highly recommended for football fans, offering a top-tier experience with its enhancements in various aspects of the game

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Aug 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 is an undeniably impressive step in the right direction for the franchise, offering a visually stunning and engaging gameplay experience that builds upon previous entries.

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NZGamer

Xbox One

Dec 2, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden 25 on Xbox One offers modest graphical upgrades, significant gameplay improvements, better technical performance, and enhanced replay value for dedicated fans of the series.

GameCritics

Xbox Series X

Oct 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 is worth the money with vast improvements, especially for those seeking an upgraded football experience. It may feel less unique compared to College Football 25, but it offers a professional atmosphere and revelation for fans waiting for enhancements.

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God is a Geek

Xbox One

Nov 29, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden NFL 25 is a good foundation for future titles, with some minor issues in player models and collision physics, but highly recommended for fans of the series

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Aug 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Madden 25 offers solid improvements in gameplay mechanics, particularly in the running and defensive game. However, the modes feel largely the same as previous entries, and the 'Storyline' scenes lack depth and immersion. The game is mechanically impressive but falls short in delivering substantial changes to each mode.

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Game Informer

Xbox One

Nov 19, 2013

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Improvements over last generation but still needs work, with noticeable inconsistencies and missing features

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