*Only review you need*
Is it really that hard to call plays? Why do I need the computer to call my plays for me? I like to think of Madden as being my generation's game of chess. It's a strategy game where you try to outthink your opponent and then execute that thinking. All that is slowly being eroded. This is becoming less of sim, strategy game and more of an arcade "blitz" style game.
The developers said they wanted a game that was accessible for players of all skill levels. It's this "everyone deserves a trophy" mentality that is destroying gaming. Why can't the less skilled players just practice to get better? Or have a better match making system online to pit one less skilled against another.
This year all I wanted was improved AI, and a deeper more realistic on and offline franchise mode. Both of which were untouched. I like the 45 minute madden games; if I wanted it to be shorter I could just change the time from 5 minute to 3 minute quarters.
The team play feature online is a good idea but the reason for it is not. The developers said they wanted players who were unskilled to be able to go online and still have fun and possibly win. Yeah that's exactly what we wanted, some horrible player on our team to make us lose.
I am not a hardcore madden guy, I would say I prob an above average player. I got that way by practice, practice and more practice. The idea that they want everyone to be equal is just insane. Remember 2 years ago when the developers decided it would be a good idea to have the constant reminder on screen that you have to hit the "A" button to hike the ball? lol this game is just like that idea. In life there are inevitably going to be winners and losers, and madden 11 is def one of the losers.