Madden NFL 13

Game review by Marc Saltzman, Common Sense Media
Madden NFL 13 Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 8+

Fun football sim gets facelift and expands ways to play.

Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360 2012
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Kids say

age 6+

Based on 14 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this game.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know Madden NFL 13 is a sports simulation game reflecting professional football. Kids will see the same hard hits and tackles as they would if they were watching a live football game on TV. Parents need to be aware of the option to talk online via headset microphone with others (even strangers) in the X360 and PS3 versions. Finally, there is some consumerism in this game, with ample ESPN and EA Sports branding, and familiar apparel company logos, too.

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What’s It About?

Another year, another Madden NFL video game from EA Sports. As with its many predecessors, MADDEN NFL 13 is a pro football simulation that allows gamers to play as or against their favorite teams in the NFL. They can also create and run a franchise. All players, teams, and stadiums have been digitally rendered for added authenticity, along with rules (which could be tweaked, if desired), realistic animations, and a host of single-player and head-to-head modes (including online play). This year’s game promises to add more emotion and feel thanks to an all-new Infinity Engine that delivers real-time physics; a new Connected Career mode played off the field, and features customizable scenarios, social integration, and unique storylines; overhauled graphics and sound (including all-new commentary) for unprecedented production values; and a redesigned user interface both on and off the field.

Is It Any Good?

While it sounds like EA Sports has added a lot to the franchise, the core game remains the same –- which might be disappointing to some expecting a fresh experience after all these years or a relief for others among those worried about the developers toying with what makes this series so sought after. Therefore, depending on which side of the gridiron fence you sit, you’ll either appreciate or dismiss Madden NFL 13.

That said, the all-new Connected Careers, played off the field, is an interesting addition. Better than the Franchise mode found in previous games, here you get to play out your franchise dreams any way you like, including the option to play, coach, or manage; create or join an offline or online league; choose from past NFL greats and current players; trade and draft new players –- all of which is accessible in the game via the web or on a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. The game also offers social network integration, allowing you to post info to Facebook and Twitter. But along with a fresh new coat of paint --- namely, updated graphics, smoother animation, and newly recorded commentary from Jim Nance and Phil Simms –- it’s virtually the same game. It’s good. Very good. But don’t expect a major leap forward. Note: Not all versions of the game are the same: Nintendo Wii doesn't have Connected Career, but does have social media integration; graphics are low resolution. A Nintendo Wii U version is coming. Also, Xbox 360 owners can use Kinect integration for calling plays for the offense and defense using your voice.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the integration of social media within games. Do players want to share all of their plays, stats, and other information with friends over Facebook and Twitter in a game like this? Does it add to the experience?

  • Would you rather play sports games by yourself or with others? Why?

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