If Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 8) is observed as a national holiday, then we can certainly set aside one day a year to celebrate, as a nation, the release of EA Sports’ Madden 08 video game. First of all, Christopher Columbus didn’t “discover” America. Secondly, there’s no need to distribute disease-ridden blankets here, EA wants to keep their fans/consumers healthy and alive. And isn’t this the reason terrorists hate us so much, they are jealous of our Madden way of life. Let’s rub their face in it. So, next year, I want to see the Tuesday that Madden is released on designated as a national holiday with much glorious red-white-and-blue-style grilling, flag-waving, and finger-mashing taking place across the country.
Horns fans should be pleased to see their man Vince Young on the cover and hopefully avoiding the Madden jinx. This year’s version should bring up the next-gen gameplay responsiveness to the level of last year’s awesome next-gen look. Having an extra year to tweak their game for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 should really do wonders. New features include Player Weapons where the most-skilled players on the field have capabilities lacking in their less-skilled counterparts. The Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson should be able to make plays that their No. 2 back can’t, just like in real life; so the defense will have to respond accordingly or get burned. Missing from last year’s next-gen version was Owner Mode, which is – thankfully – back this year and makes Madden just that much deeper of a title. So, tonight, starting at midnight, get your hands on a copy of Madden 08 and mash away your pain. It’s healthier than alcohol, and, in the long run, less expensive.
This article appears in August 10 • 2007.