Aug 2021
Ah, football season! The time of year when perfectly rational people throw snacks at the TV while shouting at millionaires dressed in spandex. And right in the thick of it is Madden NFL 22, bringing the excitement of the gridiron right into your living room... or your mom's basement, no judgment here. Featuring the likes of Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, this game promises all the tackling and touchdowning you can handle. But how does it hold up on the PS5? Let’s dive in!
Madden NFL 22 feels like a classic Madden title—if you’ve played one, you’ve basically played them all, right? EA Tiburon has pumped up their Franchise mode with features that are as detailed as your friend’s fantasy football lineup. You’ve got graphics showing complex skill trees and a staff management system that could rival the hierarchical structure of a major corporation (but with more helmets). The 'Home Field Advantage' feature brings a new twist to matches. Want to know what it feels like to be a home team on the brink of losing? Just play a game in an opposing team's stadium, and you’ll experience your players mysteriously losing stamina quicker than you can say 'who's winning the Super Bowl?'. Also, while 'Face of the Franchise' is supposed to be an immersive experience, it often ends up feeling more like ‘Face Full of Glitches’. Ah, the irony—football stars and buggy experiences, a true ‘classic’ combo. So whether you’re looking to build a dynasty or just a decently nice team, be prepared for some ups, some downs, and possibly some lefts and rights as you ninja your way through plays like a pro… or at least like a very enthusiastic fan.
Moving onto the graphics—Madden NFL 22 boasts visuals that are shinier than a quarterback's bling after a Super Bowl victory. With the power of the PS5 behind it, the stadiums come to life, and you’ll feel as though you could almost reach out and shake hands with the players. The crowds look pretty realistic, barring a few animations that seem to remind you that you’re in a video game and not a live broadcast. It's the kind of polish that makes you feel like your couch is the best seat in the house. However, the occasional hiccup and glitch might suddenly remind you, 'Oh right, this is a Madden game'. But we’ll forgive it; it’s not like we haven’t seen crazier glitches in our lives (like flashing back to your last date, am I right?).
In conclusion, Madden NFL 22 is like that solid pair of cleats you have—reliable but maybe not a game-changer. It brings improvements to Franchise mode that fans have asked for, while also dragging along some glitchy baggage like a clumsy offensive tackle. Despite a few setbacks, fans of American football will find plenty to enjoy, especially if you’ve got football snacks on hand (trust us, they enhance the experience). Overall, while it may not be MVP material, Madden NFL 22 still deserves a spot on your digital shelf. So grab your controller, fire up the game, and let's hope your team doesn’t fumble more than your buddies when you're trying to explain the offside rule. Touchdown, or just touch nothing—what will it be? Only you can decide!
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