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Another year, another Madden. With the upcoming release of Madden 2008, EA has talked to the press about the changes that can be found in this year’s version. Here is a summary of some of the more prominent features that EA has revealed:

• Completely new animation system. This “branching” animation technology allows players to automatically react to situations on the field in realistic ways. For example, You throw a pass to a receiver near the sideline. In previous Madden games, if the receiver caught the ball at a sprint near the sideline, the animation would always run the guy straight out of bounds. With the new “branching” technology, the receiver will automatically plant both his feet in-bounds and angle upfield to gain those extra yards.
• “Gang” tackling is now available on every system. It was first featured on the PS3, but now is making it’s way across all platforms. This system allows two or more defenders the ability to tackle a single player, increasing the chances of stopping the play. In addition, with the new “branching” animation system, the runner can spin out of holds and have defenders clash into each other, letting the runner escape.
• The AI has been significantly improved. “Money” plays of years past have been drastically reduced in effectiveness, with pass defense in general being enhanced. The new animation system allows defenders take out a guy’s legs and collide with him in mid-air, perhaps even jarring the ball loose in the process. This will make players think twice before throwing to star receivers out over the middle. There have also been improvements to AI on the offensive side of the ball, with the computer-controlled players reacting to situations based on their current Quarterback. For instance, Peyton Manning will have more accuracy under pressure than say, Rex Grossman.
• There are many other additions to Madden 08, including the return of some scrapped modes. These include co-op play, owner mode, laterals, and an upgraded fatigue system.

It seems that EA is trying to “get-back-to-basics” with this next version of the Madden series. It seems that all the enhancements that they have made will be welcome ones. But let’s be honest, they could do nothing but change the names of a few players and it will still sell a gazillion copies. The game is scheduled to be released on 08/14/2007.

[source: Gamespot]

Madden 2008, EA, Football