

Madden 21 also promises opponents will better react if things get too predictable via repetition, though it's something that clearly varies based on the difficulty level.Īrguably more important is how the measured, realistic gameplay changes based on the attention to detail near the end of and between plays too.
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And in an area that seriously needed addressing, A.I.-controlled defenders finally have better awareness when a ball-carrier is close to them and they actively try to break free from blocks and gang tackles. The location of the tackle (high or low) and style (big hit, wrap up, etc.) plays a role in how plays and drives go. The player now doesn't feel helpless on the defensive side of the ball. Player fatigue also seems to play a slightly bigger role, which makes the game a bit more strategic. It's a much-needed similar story on cross-body throws and throwing on the run in general.

A deep throw accuracy cutoff in the ratings eliminates some of those arcade-y lobs that are really only exclusive to Patrick Mahomes in real life. After getting realistic throwing motions for passers in the game last year, quarterbacks can now attempt a pass while taking a sack. Other factors in the smoothed-out gameplay generally feel rather balanced. It also trends toward being a little overpowered on easier difficulties, but it's hard to perfectly stress just what a welcome addition it is. Employing the correct pass-rushing move off the edge or inside based on the opposing offensive line and offense does feel amazing. It's the same story on the defensive side of the ball. It's the sort of feature that is not only fun for pick-up-and-play purposes, it's also clearly going to be a decisive factor on the competitive scene.

It leaves you wondering "why wasn't this in the game already?" Accurately pulling off jukes and stutter steps to breeze through defenders is a blast as it feels better than the previous editions. The Skill Stick allows for far more fluidity and natural movement when busting out moves as a ball-carrier or pass-rusher without taking your thumb off the stick. Prominent among them is the Skill Stick feature, an enhanced version of the right analog stick control from previous games. Madden 21 feels a little slower, though in the best way possible.Ī variety of details go into the feel. Better line play improved the general feel for the better, too.ĭeliberate might be the best word for the new feel to the gameplay. Last year made some strides in the realism department as ratings were parsed down and superstars' X-factors made the best of the best really stand out.
