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The Madden Series has always been
great, but it comes back even better than ever in the 2005 edition.
Included in this year's edition is many new features including a "Hit Stick" ,
deeper playmaker control, a deeper franchise mode, with a storyline center, and
improved online play. There are not a lot of new additions from the 2004
edition, but the few additions definitely approve the game
play a lot.
The Hit Stick
is probably the biggest addition to Madden this year, yet there is some room to
improve it next year. Basically what the hit stick is, is the use of the
right analog stick (for PS2) to absolutely destroy your opponent. It is
almost like a turbo button, as it gives the player your controlling a burst of
energy right before you make a tackle. This allows for you to force a lot
more fumbles, and hard hits. However, there is a downside to the hit
stick. It is very hard to execute a huge hit. You have to time it
exactly right, and if you are playing someone else, all they have to do is juke,
or spin, and they can get around you. My suggestion, use it on occasion
against the computer, but don't use it against other players as much, because
you will see a 5 yard run by Priest Holmes, turn into a 95 yard touchdown run,
after a missed tackle on the 10.
Also, included in this year's
edition, is a deeper playmaker control, included playmaker controls. This
is very helpful, as you can change your coverage, double team the star receiver,
or drop into a prevent defense if you see the Hail Mary coming. The
playmaker controls on defense are a huge help in fine tuning your defense, and
its much more useful then the offense playmaker in my opinion.
Additionally, Madden 2005
includes a deeper franchise mode, with a storyline mode. This is a fun
add-on but I have to admit that the Tony Bruno radio show (which plays instead
of music, in franchise mode) definitely has to go. The storyline mode is
very similar to that of MVP Baseball 2004. It includes weekly emails from
various people, including your players, telling you if they are angry for being
benched, or would like to renegotiate their contract. This is a very fun
feature, and an excellent addition.
Finally, the online play in Madden
2005 is greatly improved. You can now challenge someone in the minicamp
drills, such as rushing attack. The regular games also have a smoother and
faster connection. Overall,
this game is an excellent game with virtually no flaws. I would
highly recommend buying it. I give it 9.5/10 stars!
Want to contact the writer of this review?
Send an email to Tom, at
webmaster@targetgamer.com. |
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