Madden NFL 08 (Playstation 3, 2007)

The past couple next-gen versions of Madden have been basically the same game just with roster updates. This is not the case with Madden 08. Fantasy draft is back and trophy case has been added. But, a very noticeable difference from the Xbox 360 version of this game and the PS3 version is the FPS, or Frames Per Second. Madden 08 runs at 60 frames per second on the Xbox 360 and 30 frames per second on the PlayStation 3. There have been many complaints that the PS3 version and PS2 version are the exact same thing. The game is not as smooth as most would like on the PS3 but it is still a great game. Also, because of the new animation system, you are no longer locked into animations and you have more control over your players. Features of the new animation system include mid-air collisions, one-handed catches, hurdles, sideline catches and gang tackling. Season Mode and tournaments have also been added to online play. The Hit Stick 2.0 allows players to hit high or low by flicking the right analog stick up or down. In addition, the fatigue factor has been fixed in this year's game. No more scrambling around with your quarterback for 2 minutes without getting tired. Fatigue also plays a factor when cold-weather teams play in hot weather during the early months of the season. Co-op play has also been brought back so you and a friend can play on the same team at the same time.

The presentation in the game has improved, but they are not taking full advantage of the ESPN license they acquired awhile back. Look for them to take more advantage of this in later versions of Madden. Also, Marshall Faulk hosts a segment called "Marshall's Minute" where he discusses key star players and predicts the final score of the game. "Weapons" (certain star players have "weapons" which can enhance their performances and create game-changing plays) also get special introductions before games. John Madden and Al Michaels do not do the commentary as they are replaced by the same radio voice as last year. Lastly, you are able to take over the careers of select rookies from the 2007 NFL Draft. For example, you can import your player from Campus Legend mode in NCAA Football 08 and use him in Madden's Superstar Mode.

There have been complaints about the amount of fumbles and interceptions in this game making it unrealistic but here is a thought: if you throw the ball right to a defender, he should catch the ball in real life. Still, this makes the game interesting and gives people that like to play defense and are skilled at it a reason the control the defenders. This game is great but like anything else can improve. It is fun and has a lot of modes and features that will keep you interested and playing until Madden 09.