Sports Illustrated recommends Madden on Wii
Monday, August 18th, 2008 at 12:50pm by BlakeFrom the 8.5/10 review, which also praised the game’s graphics:
As EA Sports continues to develop and fine-tune the “All-Play” concept on the Wii editions of its annual sports releases, hardcore gamers will continue to be disappointed by the perceived emphasis on drawing in novice fans. With advents like the “Call Your Shots” mode, it’s not like the developers completely ignored the veteran fan base, but the long-term direction of these Wii versions is evident. In the end, if you want the most realistic football sim on the market, maybe you should rethink your future with a Nintendo console obviously committed toward bringing together gamers of all ages and backgrounds. But if you’re looking an inclusive experience suitable for any level of player — and a perfectly enjoyable football game for the hardcore set — there’s no need to overthink it: Madden is still the one.
Any readers out there playing? Penny for your thoughts? Note: Infendo’s review is forthcoming.
August 18th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
Picked up the game for 35 bux yesterday at Gamestop. I really dig it so far, much better than 07′. My only gripe is no classic or gamecube controller support. Sometime I just want to relax w/o flailing my arms everywhere.
August 18th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I really, really hate the trend towards simplification for the sake of inclusion. I haven’t played 09 yet on the Wii, so hopefully that’s not what has taken place here, but I’m seeing it way too much in games in general. You don’t need to dumb something down to broaden its appeal, you need to make it more intuitive. Things can still have depth and complexity while maintaining a broad appeal. Take “The Dark Knight”, for example. Please don’t let the Mario Party effect seep into other games - skill should be rewarded, instead of encouraging a plunge into mediocrity.
August 18th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
@Richter
No worries, the “All Play” feature can be turned off. I think EA did a pretty decent job hitting both camps on this on.
August 18th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
I am one of the six people out there that have never played a Madden title in any platform. I’m just not into American football! But someone showcased the Wii version of ‘09 at work last week, and I must say: It made me consider getting this version, just because it looked like I can get into the game more easily than with the 360 version.
I was actually surprised by the graphics, too… not 360-quality, of course, but you won’t miss the HD.
August 18th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
The only football I am getting on the Wii, from EA, is Mutant League Football. Oi. Why is everyone buying the same game over and over is beyond me.
August 18th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
Madden 07 for PSP is meeting my needs. I would like to try the Wii version but I’m not going to put out the bucks for it.
August 18th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
Hey all, do what I did and try to spot a used copy. Then slap down this coupon and save 25% off.
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/?f=345
August 19th, 2008 at 12:35 am
I’m happy with my Madden ‘07. I did play this at Gamestop though and it looks and feels excellent. If you don’t already have Madden for the Wii, I’d say pick it up.
August 19th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
While I’m all for this kind of approach, personally I only ever liked football when it had the “Blitz” title on it. If THEY managed to do a “game for all” and keep it as crazy and fast-paced then I’d be all over it.