EA Orlando·Released May 28, 2020·Single player
Go all out in Madden NFL 21 where a fearless new generation of rising NFL stars is poised to change the game. Packed with fresh new features and innovative gameplay enhancements, Madden NFL 21 delivers new levels of ingenuity and control developed to inspire creativity on and off the field.
Madden NFL 21 has all the same problems as its PS4 predecessor, because it's basically the same game. The presentation has taken a half-step forward owing to the increase of hardware power, but it's many yards behind the standard now set by FIFA 21 and NBA 2K21. The increased loading times improve the flow of modes like Ultimate Team, and the gameplay is marginally more authentic thanks to the implementation Next Gen Stats, but an ageing Franchise mode and some tired animations mean this is hardly the improvement fans anticipated.
Madden 21 introduces some exciting new ideas, but the rest of it feels stuck in the mud.
Madden NFL 21 is stagnant, and while football fans will find things to enjoy, it's not like there's an alternative option available. The Yard is a genuinely promising addition, and we're looking forward to seeing how it evolves over the course of this season – and future games. But an embarrassing story and an untouched Franchise mode mean that it's the only real reason to upgrade. And while Madden Ultimate Team continues to be a time sink, the stale state of the on-field simulation means that this year's game fails to find its intended receiver.
And a reminder of how much more we stand to lose
Incremental changes and a flashy new mode can’t hide a stagnant transition year.
Madden NFL 21 has an excellent new game mode that's great for short spurts, but the series staples don't move the needle.
Madden 21 is the series' most stylish entry ever thanks to The Yard and player customization, but these new features come without the substance required to contend for football glory.
Though the lack of meaningful new content is disappointing, Madden NFL 21 still brings a solid experience once you step onto the field.
