Sega Genesis
Released in 1993 by EA Sports
Grade: C+
This game has a simple, goofy charm, but unfortunately it also has passing windows.
Where it falls in the series
It’s the fourth of eight Maddens on Genesis, and the last one with passing windows. Unlike the earlier versions, this game moves very quickly between plays, which is a key improvement. The next installment, Madden 95, is my favorite from the Genesis days.
Praises and gripes
The gameplay has a funny look to it. Players often appear to be spinning their wheels before they get moving. It can be frustrating at first, but you get used to it. Every play has a lifelike chaos to it, never developing quite the same way twice. The controls are intuitive, and calling plays is a breeze.
Unfortunately, the passing windows at the top of screen make passing harder, not easier. They cover the area of the field where your receivers are. I learned that the best method is to memorize the play diagram, let the play develop, decide where to throw, and then pull up the passing window and throw with two quick button presses.
Receivers hardly ever run the route like it’s shown on the play diagram, however, making passing even more of a mess. And don’t forget, you have to deal with the passing windows when you’re on defense as well, so you’ll temporarily lose sight of your defensive backs.
Despite all that, this game can be really fun to play. The quick playcall interface is a vast improvement from earlier versions. The CPU opponent is more competent than before. The revamped engine has its charm, with funky running physics and passes that soar high in the air.