Madden 2005

EA has done a terrific job with the 2005 edition of Madden. The game features improved defensive strategy, tweaked graphics, tight controls and enough features to keep you playing until Madden 2006 arrives next year. Oops, was that a secret?

A nice touch includes the all new Tony Bruno's radio show. It does not add anything to the overall gameplay or anything but it is a nice diversion between games. The new hit stick option is an ok gimmick I guess. Apparently, mastering this new mode of tackling can increase the chance of a turnover. Seems hit and miss to me.

Madden lacks some of the polish found in Sega's ESPN 2K5 but if you like your football Madden style, this one is the best version ever.

The game looks and plays pretty much the same regardless of whether you are playing the game on XBOX, PlayStation 2 or Game Cube. If you want to go online then your choice is limited to XBOX and PlayStation 2.