Quote: We've come to a crossroads for Madden Wii. EA is going with All-Play as its Wii philosophy, which means you're going to see a casual focus for the new Wii users. The company is trying to keep the hardcore gamers in the loop, and all the customization options, advanced controls, refined online, and Call Your Shot mode is evidence of this (there's even a few upgrades based on the HD versions of the game, including the return of lead blocker mode and the new slide protect system). Still, things like All-Play controls, Mii referees, fair play modes, the main party mode, and visual tuning shows that EA is also putting a heavy emphasis on the casuals, and with only so much time each year to add and refine, that means you'll never get a fully-hardcore leap so long as All-Play is around. Madden 09 has done a great job of giving every type of player a little to love, but for the Wii-only hardcore out there, you're going to need to realize that times are changing, and Nintendo is synonymous with "everybody" now.
For the casual football fan out there, Madden 09 All-Play is one of the best experiences you can have on Wii. It's easy to use, inviting, and the default play schemes will have you enjoying a game of football in very short time; usually without learning anything about the game, and just doing the motion that most makes sense. For the hardcore, you can choose to pick up Madden 09 All-Play and love it for its new advancements on the core front (there are many, and it's a great, great game), or you can bite the bullet, pick up a 360 or PS3, and dive into what looks to be the most robust and impressive Madden thus far on the HD front. EA has done an amazing job in creating a truly different experience based on what system you select, so much so that multi-console users may want to pick up All-Play, as well as an HD version this year. Bottom line, EA is showing a serious investment on Wii, and Madden NFL 09 All-Play truly delivers. Whether you're a gaming rookie or seasoned veteran, there's something here for everyone, and that's what All-Play is all about.