The first gameplay deep dive for Madden NFL 25, which took place on July 23, showcased some of the exciting changes coming in this year’s game.
EA Sports has worked on the FieldSENSE system since it was introduced two seasons ago. This year, the system will be accompanied by BOOM tech, which relies heavily on physics-based animation. Players will be able to enjoy new mechanics in both offensive and defensive areas of the game. Based on the gameplay deep dive trailer, the new system, combined with more steps to increase authenticity, could be great news for fans.
BOOM Tech will be changing Madden NFL 25’s offense and defense
A fundamental change in Madden NFL 25‘s defense will be how the tackles hit. With the introduction of BOOM tech, the Hit Sticks, Cut Sticks, and Dive Tackles will feel more authentic. This will be done in three simple steps:
- Pre-impact: Before the tackle actually hits, the defender evaluates all potential ways to bring down the offensive player. They take into account their own and the offensive player’s postures before trying to land a tackle. Similarly, the ball carriers brace for an impact and can make last-minute special moves to avoid the tackle.
- Moment of impact: In Madden NFL 25, the body strength of all the players will be fine-tuned for accuracy. This will create differences in their abilities and appearances within the game.
- Tackle resolution: BOOM Tech will decide the final tackle animations from a large pool of possible outcomes instead of going with a predetermined outcome. As a result, the outcomes and animations of a tackle will feel different even when all other factors are the same.
As I said, BOOM Tech will also have a deep impact on the offensive side of the game. A mistimed tackle or a glancing hit will allow the ball carrier to recover and continue on a run. However, a failed tackle could still influence the direction of the runner and will largely depend on the carrier’s foot position.
Naturally, the ability of a ball carrier to recover will again vary based on their ratings and abilities. A runner having good numbers in muscle-strength tuning might not be that easy to bring down compared to someone with a lighter and quicker build.
Madden NFL 25 will also refresh the Hit Stick system
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Hit Sticks, it’s getting a fresh update. In Madden NFL 25, Hit Sticks will be based on the timing of the hit and the angle of approach from the defender. A badly-timed tackle with a poor approach angle will have lesser hit power.
Similarly, a well-timed tackle will have the necessary power to bring down an opponent. A feedback system will also be in place, guiding you about how well-timed or mistimed your tackle was.
All things considered, BOOM Tech could bring the gameplay to a level that satisfies the community. More changes have also been announced, but it’s better to wait for a more detailed overview of them before making any judgment.
Madden NFL 25 is looking to improve the authenticity
EA Sports is looking to ensure that gamers enjoy the authentic taste that NFL fans expect from the franchise. In that regard, they’re taking the following steps with this year’s product:
- Making the ball carriers feel a lot more livelier, based on the Frostbite animation technology.
- Additional skill moves, including jukes, spins, and high-steps.
- Introduction of Setup State to break down opposition defenses.
- Over 200 new signature pre-play behaviors, which increases all the actions that happen before a play begins.
- Contextually appropriate animations that show in-game adjustments at the scrimmage based on real life.
- Innovation in catching and blocking to resemble what NFL stars do in real life.
- A new Playbook tool and a future supply of more plays to be added as updates.
- The NFL Hybrid Kickoff rules will be available on launch day.
So far, things look positive for Madden NFL 25, which goes live globally on August 16 (in early access).
