Well, I've waited, bought and played Madden 2005 collector's edition. Unfortunately, I'm not too impressed with it's output this season. Graphically, the game looks pretty good. The players are relatively detailed, but the fields aren't as sharp as I'm accustomed to. I tend to love ESPN's graphics a lot more, but in reality, I like good playability over everything else. The offense isn't supposed to be too overpowering this season, though I'm putting up almost 38 points a game with a lackluster Ravens offense. Pass deep, lead the reciever, and it's a TD. The running game gets stuffed a lot easier this year, as the defenses are pretty nasty on the line, it's just unfortunate that the secondaries are garbage. The defense has been tuned up nicely, and hitting a running back three yards behind scrimmage is a blast. The hits are pretty serious. Again, the deep passing game is still a joke, as most d's get burned. I haven't gone online yet, as I'm just not impressed with the game overall, so I really haven't bothered too much with it. I'm sure the online capabilities are just as good as always, but I cannot be sure. The presentation of the games is pretty weak. It has no television feel, and it's the same Michaels/Madden dribble from the last three or four years, so if you've heard maddenisms in the past, be sure to have them repeated over and over and over again. The replays throughout the game happen during the play selection, which means you can watch them, but your play clock ticks away. If you choose a play, the replay ends. Like I said, no television feel. Overall, Im pretty un-impressed with the gameplay, and will definitely be trying ESPN's foray into the 2005 season, as I've always been very impressed with their graphics, sound and playability. If you're a diehard Madden owner, this game will probably satisfy you. Unfortunately, the franchise has not gotten better over the past few years, and this attempt shows it.
I've played a number of the other Madden games over the past years, and despite their bells and whistles that come and go each year, this one is always the best. You have an actual defense in this version. One tha... Read Full Review
It is MAdden time again. Some of you may be hyped up and ready but some may be the same. But Madden 05 is something to check out. With new features,a updated roster, and more MAdden Cards this game you will leave you wn... Read Full Review
