Even though the release of Madden NFL is an annual event, the team at EA Sports is always looking to improve upon the previous versions with better graphics and tighter controls. How successful they are is almost constantly up for debate, but with last year’s game being one of the best versions of Madden in recent memory, all eyes are on Madden 21 and its August 28th release.
This year, Madden 21’s goal is “to deliver complete control to players on both sides of the ball.” How exactly will this be done? We’re glad you asked.
New Pass Rush Control
Madden 21’s changes begin at the line of scrimmage, coming with a major focus on the defensive line and pass-rushing positions. Pass rusher controls will use the right control stick and triggers to allow players to dynamically control the moves they wish their players to make at the precise moment. An on-screen trainer will show which moves are being executed and whether or not they are successful, as well as indicating if they were executed on time, late, or early.
The hope with the new pass rush control is that it will allow an added layer of skill and strategy, making playing as a pass rusher fun and challenging enough for all players, rather than just being a great position for newcomers to the game.
Ball Carrier Skill Stick
Control on the offensive side of the ball is also receiving an “overhaul” with the right control stick being the primary tool for ball carriers to use to outmaneuver defenders. Jukes, spins, and stutter-steps appear to highlight the moves available to players when avoiding defenders in the open fields, all of which can be linked together to create highlight reel-type of runs. New dead leg and side hurdle moves have also been included this year, adding to each runners’ repertoire.
That said, don’t think that runners will have open reign of the field.
Realistic Open Field Tackling
New animations will allow defenders to position themselves better for stopping the run this year. Unlike years past, in which defenders would launch themselves at full-speed for a tackle at a terrible angle, defenders will now prepare for impact, allowing for a more realistic feel when coverage breaks down and giving defenders a better chance at stopping the ball carrier while preventing broken tackles. Of course, timing is everything, so a poorly timed tackle (or mismatched player) will still give ball carriers a leg up in breaking free of the tackle.
Authenticity Improvements
A more realistic presentation of overall gameplay will make its way in Madden 21 making gameplay feel more immersive and realistic. Extra effort first downs and momentum when being pushed out of bounds are just a couple of small enhancements that should be highly impactful in terms of true-to-life in-game action.
Quarterback play will also be impacted by these improvements, featuring new animations that are dictated by how the defense is affecting the quarterback, especially while under pressure. Basically, the positioning of the defender will impact the positioning of the quarterback’s body and arm/throwing position, all of which will affect the result of the throw.
Additionally, players will have the ability to celebrate or react to the previous play, which will no doubt be utilized in excess by the online community.
The changes sound pretty similar to updates made in previous games, but Madden 21 will likely have fine-tuned many of the in-game mechanics to make it feel new enough. Not to mention, the game will no doubt look crisper and play even better when it releases on the next generation of consoles.
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