On special teams, the changes are less impactful. Last year, Madden introduced an easier way to Buy Madden 18 Coins block punts and field goals. That feature returns, but pulling it off is still rather rare in exhibition contests.

All told, the heightened realism takes some time to get used to (do the Skills Training exercises), but the experience is consistent, and excels at teaching you how and how not to play the game through trial and error. For players who want a less mechanically extensive experience, Madden 18 has a breezy, fast-paced arcade mode, which gives you the same beautiful visuals but with less of an emphasis on the logical restraints of even the most gifted of athletes. However, we recommend you stick with it and adapt to the new changes.

Once you get the hang of things, Madden 18 feels closer to true NFL play than any other video game. Weaving in and out of tacklers, and racing down the sideline for a touchdown has never been this exhilarating.