EA returns PSP Madden fumble

The Madden franchise made its first outing on the Sony PSP in September, but it hasn't exactly been a problem-free debut. Hardened fans of the popular series experienced problems with the game's franchise mode, which caused a "shutdown issue" that forced the PSP to power down.

Electronic Arts discovered a work-around solution for the problem in October, but that entailed navigating through the game's menus in a roundabout way. Today, the publisher decided on a longer-term solution--just send the old disc in, and they'll send out a replacement.

The replacement disc has "revised software" that reportedly solves all the problems with the franchise mode. For the inconvenience, EA will also give customers two coupons. One is a $15 voucher for the online EA Store, and the other is for complimentary shipping on a future order from EA.

To get a problem-free UMD of Madden NFL 06, gamers should send their old disc, along with a note containing their name, address, e-mail address, and phone number, to:

EA Customer Warranty
Attn: Madden PSP
209 Redwood Shores Parkway
Redwood City, CA 94065

The disc may take up to 10 business days to be delivered. For more information, head over to the Madden NFL 06 PSP Web site.