Madden NFL 09 delivers its most complete NFL football package ever. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or picking up the game for the first time, you will enjoy a unique yet challenging experience, thanks to the innovative Adaptive Difficulty Engine, which tailors the game to match your playing style. Instantly improve your game with the all-new virtual Training Center or incorporate feedback with EA SPORTS BackTrack, allowing you to learn from your mistakes on the fly. With a new broadcast presentation and online leagues, plus more than 85 new features and enhancements, Madden NFL 09 is the most authentic and adaptable game in sports video game history. An all-new Adaptive Difficulty Engine assesses your proficiency in the core skills areas of football. An innovative, Virtual Training Center allows you to fine-tune your game in a holographic environment, while EA SPORTS BackTrack provides customized feedback, giving you a chance to learn from your mistakes. Take what you've learned and run the play again with EA SPORTS Rewind. Set your sights on the Vince Lombardi Trophy in an all-new network television-style broadcast as Cris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond call the action from the booth. A more immersive and visually stunning presentation package also includes a new Options OnDemand Picture-in-Picture playcall window giving you access to a wealth of stats, customized tips, and in-game options--all at your fingertips without having to pause the game. Make a run for the postseason for the first time online. Featuring trades and statistical tracking for Online Leagues, up to 32 teams can battle it out using all-new flex scheduling. With an enhanced graphics engine and new player models, linemen battle in the trenches with more bulky physiques while backs and receivers fly around the field with a more sleek and slimmer look. Featuring the most realistic-looking grass and field turf ever in a sports game, new weather and

User Reviews about Madden NFL 09

I bought this game for my six year old Grandson who plays flag football for his school team. He loves the game and carries it everywhere. -- Grandson loves this game

First of all, let me start by saying I haven't played any previous versions of Madden on the DS. I hear this one is identical to 08, so you probably should save your money if you already have that. Now on to the review:

This game to me is almost perfect for a handheld version of Madden. It's packed with gameplay options, from mini camps to franchise mode (haven't played a whole season yet so I'm not sure how the offseason is) to DS exclusive games using the stylus. There is a ton crammed into the cartridge.

Gameplay is actually really excellent as well. I can swear that I see similar cutscenes to Madden 2001 for the PC (which I think is a crazily fun game) so I think it's using a similar engine. At times you will throw a pass to a receiver that will just miss by a mile, but it seems like the QBs with better accuracy ratings actually miss less of the time, and generally you won't miss if you throw the pass at the right time in the receiver's route, so QB pressure actually seems to mean something in this game (which is less than I can say for almost any other Madden I've played). Running is pretty good. Against bad defenses, the middle will open up, even on draw plays, but try it against the Steelers and you will have much less luck... The only negative I have seen on offense so far is that the Strong I formation, quick toss play is literally undefendable, no matter the difficulty setting. I've had to remedy it by choosing a playbook that doesn't have the play, and that seems to have made a difference.

Defense is really tough, especially on Pro setting. If you don't drop 4 defensive backs into deep coverage, it's almost a sure bet that the qb will throw deep and connect on you, but it's honestly one of the first Madden games I've played where I'm not a sure bet to be #1 in total defense year after year by several hundred yards.

Graphics have never been that important to me, but I think these suffice just fine. Anyway, if you have a DS and want a somewhat realistic football experience on the go, do yourself a favor and pick this up. I recently played it a ton on a long trip, and I'm still really satisfied with it. -- Great football game, even if unintentionally

I have played Madden Football since I had a Sega Genesis in the 1980s. After acquiring a Nintendo DSi, I had to try out the Madden 09 on the this platform. Graphics for a small console is actually good. Sound effects are good for a portable with the voice of John Madden, the crowds and grunts from the players.

The interface is the same as its predecessors when choosing plays. Punting or Kicking a ball takes a steep learning curve to master. Passing the ball utilizes the various buttons (A,B,X,Y, L, and R). Artificial intelligence can be adjusted for your level of play. You can call audibles and no huddle offensive plays. Game play is quite good where you can use the standard rosters or customize your own team.

You can play an exhibition, season or franchise. Players can be created and rosters can be customized. Practice mode lets you learn the mechanics of the game, including punting and kicking (the hardest part of the game to do well). There are real time statistics, as you play the game, to evaluate your performance and your competition.

PROS
Robust game with many options
Customization of rosters and difficulty level
Gameplay

CONS
None for a handheld console


Overall, this is entertaining with a high replay value.

This is one of my most favorite games. -- The action of the NFL in the palm of your hand