Madden NFL 07 [X360]

Look and Listen

In terms of graphics, the animation level is a significant upgrade over Madden 06, with players linking moves together, from spins to stiff arms, with a lot more fluidity, even throwing in distinct running styles of players like Tiki Braber and his no-fumble, goofy tuck. The game is still only moving at 30 frames per second, but even at that, it's a superior, more solid 30 frames than you saw in previous Tiburon titles, most recently NCAA Football 07.

The funny thing about the game is, the more real faces they add, the more the faces of your favorite players who they didn't add tend to stick out. Some of these dudes can get pretty ugly, too. I wonder how they like looking so rough in high-def.

Soundwise, I'm not a fan of the hometown radio announcer. There are too many dead spots where he just doesn't say anything after a big play, especially during replays. The crowd will fall silent and you end up watching an exciting play on mute, really taking away the authentic feeling from the game. Down on the field is where the real audio action takes place as you can hear players talking smack, the cleats hitting the grass as defenders chases you, and the grunts and groans of fierce tackles. There are also the real audible calls for over 20 NFL quarterbacks thanks to the sound files of NFL Films.

Closing Comments
The more I played Madden last year, the less I liked it. I've had the complete opposite feeling for Madden 07. Sure, there are still some flaws, but even if you just played Superstar mode, Madden is worth the money. This is the year EA Sports finally shows 360 owners what the series is all about, the trash talking, the head-to-head competition, the ability to create yourself and become a bigger star than the Seahawk on the box. Forget the curse, I'm headed to the Hall, one block, one IQ test, and two athletic parents at a time.

This is the Madden gamers have come to know and love.

Welcome back.

Only next time, remember to bring Owner mode.

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