As technology progresses along with the game, it is easy to see that the support crew behind the making of Madden continues to push the envelope with its crisp, clear graphics and life-like playability. The graphics are astounding; each player, each year becomes more and more streamlined and real looking to give you a feel closer to watching a game on Sunday, instead of playing one. Graphics of the stadiums, the elements around the game and in-game play graphics continue to improve. This will help any player become immersed in the action of the game. Sounds continue to radiate throughout the speakers on the TV as if you were in the stadium. I enjoy the short musical takes that each stadium plays to pump up the crowd. I appreciate the small subtleties that the designers try to incorporate into the game without any of it seeming overwhelming, and what makes this all more meaningful is when you are in a house of multiple Madden players and you can't participate in every game.

When it comes to Madden '06 gameplay, nothing has changed dramatically from the past seasons of play. Controls are still basically the same; extensive knowledge of the controller and great dexterity are needed to make all your plays run smoothly. Hit "X" instead of "Y" during a pass play, and watch the other team take it to the house for six. Players are easily maneuverable, and the flow of the game very believable. Part of the new controls to make the game more lifelike is the "quarterback view" when passing. Using the right thumbstick, each quarterback, when passing the ball, needs to place his viewing area over the intended receiver. This gives the game a life-like feel, since no-look passes are left for the NBA. Though I like the concept, it does take awhile for the below-average player to become accustomed to it. Computer intelligence is still progressing nicely, as well as the ability to learn the game to find weaknesses in a defense. If a player takes the time to learn and anticipate what the other coach is bringing at them, then they will have as much success as any up-and-coming offensive or defensive coordinator. Though there can be small improvements throughout the game, Madden '06 continues to be a benchmark of videogame football.

Giving the gamer the ability to act and play all the different roles of the NFL universe is what has made Madden such a popular video game series down through the decades. Real-life playbooks, coaches and players give the gamer the feel of the action without having to go through the grind (and multiple workouts) to get that ultimate experience. What is nice about this version is a couple of enhancements to the game that they did to widen the spectrum of sports video game playing. The EA Radio Show is mind-blowingly extraordinary each and every time I listen to it. Accurate accounts of the games, players, personnel and team situations lets a gamer get in to the action of real sports-talk radio. I am stunned that the quality of an option this involved, this good, can't be duplicated in the in-game commentary from the announcers. The "create a superstar" mode is another alternate way to get the most bang for your buck out of the Madden franchise. Develop a player at a particular position and take him from a selected draft choice to an all-pro. Schedule workouts, meetings with your agent, get calls from Terrell Davis to keep up your motivation, and live the life of a superstar. Earn extra cash by making appearances in movies and endorsing products, all while trying to help your team to an elusive Super Bowl title.

With the many options to choose from, Madden '06 will not disappoint the gamer in any facet of play. The continual upgrade of sound, controls, graphics and computer intelligence make the game worth getting … but if you have not purchased it yet, you might as well wait until the next version hits the stands. The new features will intrigue all new players of the game - whether these features will excite the gamer depends on if you are looking for something new, or if you just want to play football. The game will play for as long as you want it to, and with online capabilities to play many other people besides just the computer, your possibilities are endless. There are countless numbers of people who enjoy the game, and you will also, but Super Bowl 40 has already passed us by, so rent the game for now, buy it next year and see what the buzz is about.