As predictable as the sun sets in the west, every fall we get a “new” version of Madden NFL. For most people, the game is really a roster update. However, for this year’s version, EA Sports has attempted to overhaul the experience and make Madden 13 a unique experience worth $60.

I have been playing Madden 13 for Xbox 360 since last Tuesday, when the game was released. My overall impression with Madden 13 is pretty poor. Unfortunately it is the only Pro Football game around, so if you want to play football, this is your option. Like it or hate it.

Graphics: Average

The graphics for Madden 13 are a mixed bag. Players still move even more like robots now with the Infinity Engine driving the gameplay. There was times where I was literally laughing at some of the player models and how they reacted after a play. Some looked like they were disco dancing after the play was over. The game still feels lifeless; stadium noise is muted, sidelines look stiff, and the stadium models look average at best. The new Nike jersey’s are definitely a nice addition, but the numbers are not scaled correctly so this game reminds me more of MLB 2K rather than MLB The Show, and that is not a good thing.

Gameplay: Poor

The new Infinity Engine was brought in to make the tackles and hits more lifelike; what is has really done is added a comedic spin to a game that was not needing it. The tackles look fake, the player’s move more like robots, and the reaction to players flopping on the ground like a fish out of water is laughable. I am thoroughly convinced that at this point, the Quality Assurance department at EA is either on drugs or suffers from narcolepsy. This is horrible.

The usual problems surrounding Madden games still exists; Cornerbacks magically catch balls that they shouldn’t (jumping 14 feet in the air), running backs magnetically adhere to their own lineman, and defenses lack any ability to stop the offense.

My frustration with the gameplay for Madden continues. Why EA can’t spend their time on improving the existing gameplay is beyond me. Rather, EA feels the need to add little tweaks to “justify” the upgrade; I am thinking of “Weapons” and the “Passing Cone” which were both added and then deleted after people complained.

Sound: Average

EA should really look to how the commentating on their NHL series works and compare it to Madden. Hearing Phil Simms make the same comment over and over makes me want to hit the mute button. The stadium sound is better than in previous additions, but still lacks a genuine excitement that should be there.

Gameplay Modes: Extremely Poor

The lack of Franchise Mode is simply unforgiveable. EA claims that Connected Careers is the new Franchise Mode and a better one at that. This is about as convincing as the NFL claiming the Replacement Refs are just as good as the regular refs. Connected Careers is like a poor man’s version of the Franchise Mode; lacks all the necessary details, is hard to navigate, and is quick to frustrate.  Again, Madden will probably bring back the Franchise mode next year due to all the complaints this year, but again, why take it away in the first place? Pure Stupidity.

Overall: 5 out of 10

I give Madden a 5 out of 10; in school grading scale, this would be an F. I was on the fence about getting the game this year, but I truly wanted to see some of the improvements that were hyped for months. The bottom line is that this will be the last Madden game I purchase. I really wish that the NFL would consider brining in another development company to help bring a competitive alternative much like SCEA and MLB The Show.

The thought of EA maintaining this franchise for the foreseeable future makes me sick.