A Review of PS3 Madden 07

With the launch of Sony’s PlayStation 3, or any new gaming console, there's always a first game that everyone has questions about. Madden Football is the ultimate football game for gaming consoles, and has been for several years. There is always much excitement over a new Madden release, and gamers always wonder what exactly has been improved. Madden 07 for the PS3 is only slightly different then the 360 version as it has a few minor graphic improvements as well as a few control improvements. So far the consensus of gamers is that Madden 07 is a much improved game over Madden 06.

One of the new control features in Madden 07 is leading blocking for both the PS3 and XBox 360 game versions. This feature allows you to use your own blocking know-how rather than relying on the computer. You can allow any available blocker on offense to throw a lead block. The game actually slows time down for a second and allows you to target your block.

Cooperative gaming is also improved in Madden 07 as one person can throw a block while the fellow player runs the ball. The computer is simply not able to block with the same accuracy as a human player. The best use of this improved feature comes with cooperative game play, but it can be used in the single player mode of Madden 07 as well.

Another game play improvement in Madden 07 is the highlight stick. The highlight stick is a cool new control that adds a totally different dimension to the running game. While running the ball, as you move the right analog stick in different directions, your ball carrier will execute a variety of moves. A stutter step is achieved by tapping the stick back. It takes a little practice to become proficient using this new stick, and at the same time you can still use the trigger buttons to juke. However, if you take the time to learn how to use the Madden 07 highlight stick well, you'll be a much better player then your competitors.

Another main improvement to Madden 07 is the new kicking meter. Unlike the previous game’s kick meter, the new one has just one bar. The accuracy of your kicks in Madden 07 is determined by the angle that you press up instead of the previous game’s method of filling up the second accuracy bar. Madden 07 has the most realistic simulation of kicking yet, and it is a lot better than the previous method of having to use a double power/accuracy bar setup.

The PlayStation3 version of Madden 07 also takes advantage of the PS3 Sixaxis controller's motion detector. By flicking the PS3 controller up, you can cause a fake snap on while on offense. Moving the PS3 controller up and down is yet another method to lead block while you are on offense. When you are on defense you can try to jump the snap by flicking the PS3 controller in the same motion. Moving the PS3 controller forward will cause your defensive player to big hit tackle.

The above example was just a single example of how PS3 controller movement will be integrated into all sports games in the future. The PS3 Sixaxis motion sensor control is a very welcome addition to the other various game improvements for Madden 07. Of course, you can still use the normal control buttons to perform these moves … so if you don’t have to use the PS3 Sixaxis motion sensor if you are not comfortable using it.

The overall game play in Madden 07 is very similar to Madden 06, with the major exception being the lead blocking and highlight stick features. The graphics are slightly improved, as well the crowd images. A major game mode addition to Madden 07 is the so-called “Superstar Mode.” This is kinda like a mini-RPG that Madden 07 introduced. You begin as a rookie player on any position, and you play through a whole career. You have to negotiate contracts, work on your stats, improve your play with practice, and you have to try to get into the Madden Hall of Fame.

Another subtle feature is that the manner in which interact with your teammates and the media shapes your personality, which becomes a huge factor in whether or not you make it to the Hall. You can either be a team player, or a self centered player. This mode in Madden 07 is extremely fun and definitely a welcome improvement to the game

The level of graphics in the PlayStation 3 version of Madden 07 is very similar to the Xbox 360. Even on a HD display it is hard to tell the difference between the two versions. There are slightly more details in the PS3 version's textures and model contours. Thankfully, most of the bugs in the 360 version have been eliminated in the PS3 version. Madden 07 for the PS3 is certainly a great. Click Here For More Articles About: Video Games!