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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

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 impresses with innovations like FieldSENSE upgrades and improved physics, enhancing player movement and realism, earning praise from critics. However, issues with player contact inconsistencies, a steep learning curve, and gameplay glitches hinder the experience, leaving room for improvement. While it marks progress for the franchise, it struggles to satisfy both new and veteran players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

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 generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several innovative features and improvements that enhance the overall experience. Reviewers from COGconnected and Forbes praised the game for retaining its fundamental mechanics while introducing the FieldSENSE upgrades and a revamped physics system, which adds fluidity and nuanced control to player actions. Critics like Game Informer and GGRecon noted the enhancements in player movement, defensive AI, and the tackling system, emphasizing the realism and depth these improvements bring to the gameplay. The introduction of new mechanics, such as pre-snap adjustments and a more robust passing system, has been celebrated for providing a more complete and authentic football experience, as noted by Forbes and Twinfinite. Despite the numerous improvements, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay of Madden NFL 25. Game Informer and IGN expressed concerns about inconsistencies in player contact outcomes and the overall handling of players, which can detract from the realism that the game aims to achieve. Some reviewers, such as GamesRadar+ and Push Square, mentioned a lack of fun factor compared to previous titles, like College Football 25, and criticized the learning curve for new players, indicating that the game may be more suited for veterans. Additionally, issues like gameplay glitches, AI behavior inconsistencies, and missing features were highlighted by critics like GamingTrend and Dot Esports, suggesting that while the game has made strides, it still has room for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Madden NFL 25 has made significant advancements in gameplay mechanics, particularly in areas like player movement, AI intelligence, and tackling systems. While many reviewers appreciate the depth and realism introduced by new features, they also acknowledge the game's uneven execution and some lingering issues that affect the overall experience. Critics like God is a Geek and GameSpot encapsulate this sentiment by noting both the impressive enhancements and the areas where the game falls short, suggesting that while Madden NFL 25 is a step forward for the franchise, it still has challenges to overcome to fully satisfy both new and veteran players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 shines with stunning graphics and lifelike designs, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for its player models and atmospheric details. However, critics note inconsistencies in facial renders and character accuracy, with some feeling the visuals lack style. While it’s a significant upgrade, there’s still room for improvement in realism and polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Madden NFL 25 have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly on the newer consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics such as COGconnected and Game Informer praised the game's impressive graphical fidelity, highlighting meticulously crafted player models, lifelike animations, and stunning stadium environments. The attention to detail in elements like weather effects, dynamic crowds, and field intricacies has been noted as making the game visually appealing. Forbes also recognized the improvements in visual fidelity with 4K visuals and enhanced player scans, while GGRecon emphasized the addition of signature animations that add personality to the gameplay. Overall, the consensus is that Madden NFL 25 delivers a gorgeous visual experience that significantly enhances the immersion for players. However, despite the positive remarks, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, while GameSpot acknowledged improved visuals, they also mentioned inconsistencies, such as poor facial renders and unnatural player proportions. Twinfinite criticized the presentation for feeling sterile and lacking style, while other critics like God is a Geek and IGN echoed concerns about character models not accurately resembling their real-life counterparts. Additionally, some reviews from the Xbox One version highlighted that while there were improvements, there was still work to be done, indicating that the graphics did not fully meet the expectations set by the advancements in technology. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Madden NFL 25 represents a significant visual upgrade, particularly on next-gen consoles, with improvements in player models, animations, and environmental details. While there are commendable advancements, such as the realistic stadiums and enhanced crowd dynamics noted by GamingTrend and ZTGD, persistent issues with character models and immersion detract from the overall experience. Critics like USgamer and X-ONE Magazine UK suggest that while the game is visually impressive, it still has room for improvement, particularly in achieving a higher level of realism and polish in player representations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25's sound design receives mixed reviews. Critics praise new commentary teams and improved crowd dynamics for enhancing immersion, but many find the commentary repetitive and lacking cohesion. Nostalgic tracks from previous games add charm, yet issues with unnatural delivery and absent voice acting in 'Storyline' scenes detract from the experience. Overall, while there are advancements, significant flaws remain, signaling the need for further improvements in future installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music in Madden NFL 25 have garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several positive aspects highlighted across various reviews. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and GGRecon, appreciated the addition of new commentary teams, noting that this change enhances the overall audio experience by breaking up the soundscape and reducing repetition. Critics like God is a Geek and GameSpot praised the dynamic crowd responses and team-specific chants, which contribute to a more immersive atmosphere during gameplay. The inclusion of classic tracks from previous Madden games, as mentioned by GamesRadar+, also adds a nostalgic layer that resonates well with long-time fans of the series. Overall, the improvements in crowd reactions and the contextual relevancy of commentary have been positively received, suggesting that the developers have made strides in enhancing the auditory experience. However, despite these positives, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and commentary in Madden NFL 25. Several critics, including Dot Esports and GameCritics, pointed out issues with the new commentary teams, describing them as lacking cohesion and often feeling unnatural. The commentary has been described as repetitive, with some reviewers, like ZTGD, expressing disappointment over the lack of original comments and the overall lackluster nature of the audio offerings. Furthermore, the absence of voice acting in 'Storyline' scenes, as noted by Twinfinite, detracts from the immersive experience that the game aims to provide. Critics like Push Square also mentioned that out-of-place commentary and reused animations negatively impact the overall immersion, indicating that while some elements have improved, significant issues remain. The overall consensus among critics regarding the sound design and music of Madden NFL 25 is mixed. While there are commendable advancements, particularly in crowd dynamics and the introduction of new commentary teams, many reviewers express dissatisfaction with the execution and quality of the commentary itself. Critics such as COGconnected and GameSpot highlight that while the contextual relevance of the commentary has improved, the delivery often feels robotic and uninspired. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers who note that the new teams do not quite measure up to the established ones, leading to a fragmented audio experience. Ultimately, while Madden NFL 25 shows promise in its sound design and music, the mixed reviews indicate that there is still considerable room for improvement in creating a fully immersive auditory 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 shows some technical improvements across platforms, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but is plagued by significant issues. PS5 and PS4 versions struggle with server instability and poor graphics, while Xbox One and Series X face animation glitches and lack of polish. Overall, progress is overshadowed by persistent flaws, leaving players hoping for future fixes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Madden NFL 25 across various gaming platforms, there are some positives worth noting. On the PS5, COGconnected highlights improvements in gameplay mechanics, suggesting that while there are technical hiccups, the core experience has seen some enhancements. Similarly, NZGamer reports that on the Xbox One, the game retains modes from previous versions without major technical issues, which is a significant plus for players transitioning from earlier iterations. Additionally, the Xbox Series X version, while facing some criticism, benefits from improved loading times and smoother menu navigation, as mentioned by NZGamer, which suggests that the game has made strides in certain areas of performance. However, the negatives are quite pronounced across all platforms. Critics have pointed out various technical issues that detract from the overall experience. For the PS5, both COGconnected and Game Informer report serious concerns such as server instability, broken graphics, and awkward animations that disrupt immersion. On the PS4, Game Informer and Push Square echo these sentiments, noting problems with AI behavior, slow loading times, and server issues that affect online play. On the Xbox One, while God is a Geek reports no major issues, IGN points out occasional animation problems that can disrupt gameplay timing. The Xbox Series X version also suffers from a lack of polish, with Dot Esports mentioning issues with animations and missing features that indicate a need for greater attention to detail. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Madden NFL 25 has made some progress in technical performance, significant issues remain across all platforms. The PS5 and PS4 versions are particularly criticized for their stability and graphical fidelity, with multiple reviewers like COGconnected and Game Informer highlighting these concerns. Meanwhile, the Xbox One and Series X versions, while experiencing fewer major issues, still face criticism for animation problems and a lack of polish, as noted by IGN and Dot Esports. Ultimately, while there are some improvements and positives, the technical performance of Madden NFL 25 appears to be a mixed bag, leaving many players hoping for future patches to address these shortcomings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 has a mixed reception; it's praised for customization and engaging modes like Ultimate Team, but criticized for a dull franchise mode and predatory monetization. While it offers depth and a solid foundation, many features lack innovation, hurting long-term replay value. Hardcore fans may enjoy it, but the game's shortcomings could alienate broader players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Madden NFL 25 is mixed, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers, such as Forbes and GGRecon, praised the game for its enhanced customization options, deep franchise mode, and improved stat-tracking, which collectively add layers of replay value. Forbes specifically noted that Madden 25 is the most complete version of the series in over a decade, suggesting that the various modes, including Ultimate Team and Superstar mode, offer satisfying experiences for players. Additionally, GameSpot pointed out that the Connected Franchise and Madden Ultimate Team modes provide depth and complexity, encouraging long-term engagement through features like fantasy football integration and weekly incentives. However, the criticisms surrounding the replay value of Madden NFL 25 are significant. Critics like COGconnected and Game Informer expressed disappointment with the franchise mode, describing it as lacking excitement and missing key features, such as contract negotiations. Game Informer also noted that limited choices in franchise mode could detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, Twinfinite highlighted concerns regarding the monetization practices in Ultimate Team mode, which some players may find predatory, potentially overshadowing the enjoyment of the game. The sentiment is echoed by ZTGD, who mentioned that many modes feel like they were copy-pasted from previous entries, lacking significant innovation. In summary, while Madden NFL 25 offers a solid foundation with various engaging modes and customization options, the criticisms regarding its repetitiveness and lack of significant improvements cannot be overlooked. Critics like GameSpot and God is a Geek acknowledged the depth of gameplay available, but many others, including Game Informer and Dot Esports, pointed out the shortcomings that could hinder replayability. The consensus indicates that while the game may appeal to hardcore fans seeking a more realistic experience, the overall replay value is hampered by missing features and a reliance on monetization strategies that may alienate some players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

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 generally positive, highlighting several key improvements and attributes that enhance the gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Forbes, commend the game for its impressive visuals and gameplay mechanics, noting that it stands out as one of the most complete entries in the series in over a decade. Critics like God is a Geek also emphasize the engaging gameplay and visual fidelity, suggesting that the game builds upon its predecessors effectively. Additionally, improvements in customization and depth across modes have been highlighted, with GameSpot and NZGamer noting that these enhancements provide a satisfying experience for dedicated fans of the franchise. However, despite these positives, several critics point out significant shortcomings that prevent Madden NFL 25 from achieving greatness. Game Informer and Giant Bomb express concerns about the lack of ambition in innovation, suggesting that while the game is solid, it does not introduce substantial changes that would warrant a must-have status for new console owners. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Dot Esports also note that the game faces tough competition from titles like College Football 25, which may offer a more enjoyable experience. Moreover, issues such as AI problems, server issues, and repetitive gameplay have been raised by critics like Push Square and ZTGD, indicating that while the game is enjoyable, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Madden NFL 25 is a step in the right direction for the franchise, with many acknowledging its potential for future installments. While it boasts impressive graphics and gameplay improvements, the lack of significant innovation and persistent issues in certain areas keep it from being a standout title. Critics like GameCritics and GamingTrend express cautious optimism, suggesting that while Madden NFL 25 is worth playing, there is still room for growth and enhancement in future releases. The general sentiment leans towards a recommendation for fans of the series, albeit with the understanding that they may want to wait for further improvements in subsequent titles.

TL;DR

Madden NFL 25 impresses with stunning visuals and gameplay, earning praise as one of the best entries in years. Critics note solid improvements and deeper customization, appealing to devoted fans. However, it's held back by a lack of ambitious innovation, AI issues, and competition from rivals. While generally positive, the game isn't a must-have for new console owners and has room for growth. Overall, it's a worthwhile play for fans, but many recommend waiting for future enhancements.

MONSTER

Reviews

74 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.

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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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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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

PlayStation 4

Nov 19, 2013

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

Madden NFL 25 shows potential with improvements in tackles and physics model, but inconsistencies and missing features in franchise mode hold it back. Next-gen debut is better but still needs work overall.

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