Not Just a Game

Of all the words that come to mind when I think of Madden NFL video games RESPECT wouldn't normally be one. But after reading an interview with John Madden in The New York Time I have a greater respect for the game. The Madden NFL franchise has provided endless hours of gaming for millions of gamers since its introduction in 1988. The game has progressed with graphics, player profiles and overall realness over the past 23 years allowing it to be the 2nd highest selling sports game series of all time. The latest upgrade however, may be the most important in the franchises storied history. In the interview John Madden announced that players who have sustained a concussion during the game will not be able to return. In previous Madden games when a player is injured the gamer is given the option to let them play or take them out. This option wont be given to concussion victims in Madden NFL 2012. Helmet to helmet hits will also be removed as well as hits leading with the head. Even though James Harrison won't be rushing to his nearest game store in August I believe these new rules will be well received by Madden gamers. Madden says the motivation of these changes stemmed from the demographic of players; "It starts with young kids - they start in video games." The intention of the Madden franchise isn't to act as a social change project but they do take action to make a difference and I commend them greatly for these actions.


Another way Madden NFL is keeping up with the times is following the trend of user generated content and crowd-sourcing. The distinction of being the cover model for Madden 2012 will be decided by fan voting. The 12th Man has already been eliminated so my vote will be for the winner between Mike Vick and Andre Johnson! To cast your vote visit http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/feature/madden2012cover