Madden Next-Gen Tips

Madden NFL 06 for Xbox 360™ is a beast all its own. It may share the name of its original Xbox® cousin, but there are striking differences in features, not just graphics. After sweating it out on the gridiron, we've put together these tips to help jumpstart your next-gen Madden experience.

Play Calling
There's a new playbook in town, and it's both deeper and easier to use than before. You can now select plays based on formation as per every other Madden you've ever known, but there are several other options this time around. A few things to consider:

• Ask Madden/Ask Coach: These are two separate categories, but both are equally useful, especially for new players. The Ask Madden category highlights appropriate plays for the situation in general, whereas Ask Coach is a bit more specific to your team's strengths and tendencies. Give both a try when you're struggling to find an identity.
• Play Type: We've all been caught desperately searching for that great play we used the other day as time dwindles down. If you can recall the general set up (e.g. you know it was a Zone Blitz), you can track down your desired play much more quickly here.
• Key Players: These are the best plays for your best players. When you're looking for a game breaking play, or just a sure option on third short, look here.
• Last Five Plays: More than anything, this is just good reference, and if you do want to rerun that half-back draw from a couple plays ago, you can find it quickly.

Good call. Just knock it down.

Follow your Blockers
This has always been stellar advice, but it's even more important in this version. Most people fail in the running game by getting too happy with the ball. Stay patient, and follow your lead blockers. A good rule of thumb is to follow your fullback when he's blocking for you. He'll lead you to the hole.

Got to take a better angle.

Strip It
Similar to blocking, stripping the ball seems to be a focus this year, and with the action moved to the A button, it's easier than ever. Make use of this often, especially when sacking the quarterback. It's easy to just dive at the legs of your opponent with the X button, or to try the hit-stick, but stay patient (specifically when you're tackling from behind) and try to knock the ball loose. You'll find yourself with more fumble recoveries than ever before.

Precision Reigns
The vision and precision passing highlighted in the original Xbox version of Madden NFL 06 still exists, but the vision element is turned off by default. However, precision passing is still in full effect from the get go, so make sure you don't forget to flick the D-Pad or Left Analog stick in the desired direction to properly lead your receiver. The standard rule of thumb here is always flick away from the defender: If Hines Ward is streaking out on a fly pattern, throw it long, if he's running a slant, throw it in front or ahead of him, etc.

Customized Controller Map
Madden owners are now treated to a rarity in console games. You can map the buttons on the controller to any function you desire for each category (e.g. pre-snap offense, passing, engaged defense). Play with this functionality, and you'll likely find a more fluid setup for your own personal tastes

Great call against the Raiders, man. Well done.

AI Coverage
As a rule, playing good defense in Madden requires a delicate balance between good play-calling, and knowing when to control the defender and when to let the AI get the job done. Typically speaking, you want to only switch over to the defender on a receiver when you're absolutely sure of what you want to do (e.g. catch up and tackle, attempt an interception), otherwise it's best to just let the AI defense the pass. One fraction of a mistake and you'll allow separation between the DB and receiver, and then it's just a foot race to the house.

Balance
With AI constantly evolving, it's becoming more difficult to stay set in your ways. If all you do is seven-foot drops and chuck it down the field, the defense is going to wise up quickly. Strike a balance in your play-calling. Use the run to set up play-action pass, take an occasional shot down the field to free up your running game, etc. Don't rely on any one thing. It just won't cut it anymore.

Article by Alex McLain