EA continues to raise the competitive bar with its latest addition to the Madden series. Improvements in its excellent graphics and superb gameplay include realistically proportioned players, nets behind the goalpost for kicks, TV-style first down markers and sideline shots of players cheering, along with a faster pace, comparable to real life. The game's greatest new feature may be the Madden Challenge, where gamers are awarded bonus points for meeting certain objectives . Complete a pass for 30 yards or more and collect points, or answer a trivia question posted between quarters. Rack up enough points and get secret codes to unlock hidden teams, stadiums and modes.
Players can act as offensive coordinators by using the play editor, too.
Madden is tops on its home turf and the best option for those not opting to jump to the Dreamcast league. In a world filled with rules and regulations, Blitz is a breath of fresh air. Gone are rules, penalties and everything that is normal. Midway's sophomore edition of Blitz is perhaps better than the first. All team rosters have been updated, including the Cleveland Browns' expansion team.