The annual release of the latest Madden NFL American Football game is a major event in the United States. While its UK release is greeted with a more restrained reception, it is still a major event for fans of the genre. Madden is simply the world's most highly regarded pigskin simulation. Along with Tiger Woods PGA Tour, this is one of Electronic Arts longest running franchises, and in part is responsible for the "sports-sequels" criticisms that have been leveled against the company. EA has ... more >>

The annual release of the latest Madden NFL American Football game is a major event in the United States. While its UK release is greeted with a more restrained reception, it is still a major event for fans of the genre. Madden is simply the world's most highly regarded pigskin simulation. Along with Tiger Woods PGA Tour, this is one of Electronic Arts longest running franchises, and in part is responsible for the "sports-sequels" criticisms that have been leveled against the company. EA has shown its commitment to new and innovative gaming, but the fans keep coming back in droves to these big sports franchises. The reason for this is that year after year, EA finds something to take the series forward. Tweaks to the gameplay, new network features, better graphics and improved controls are all rolled out year after year, as well as the obvious player line-up changes that an official franchise like this entails.

The Wii version, of course, has been given its own take on pigskin throwing. The look of Madden NFL 10 on the Wii has been tailored to the systems specific strengths – fun, straightforward and accessible play. The look has been streamlined this year – gone is the attempts at realism seen in previous years in favour of a more cartoony look. Similarly, the control scheme has been simplified, so you won't have to learn 27 gestures this time round.

Central to the game are the multiplayer modes. You can either play in two-player co-op in Road to the Super Bowl, or get stuck in with up to three mates in Madden Showdown. In Showdown, you can play classic 11-on-11 football, or try out a set up familiar to soccer players – five a side. Showdown includes 'Game Changers', which enables you to change up the rules or conditions on a whim and 'Spotlight Moments', in which crucial moments see the play slowed down so you can try your hand at a micro game and pull off an amazing move. << less