EA’s Madden franchise is an annualized powerhouse that fans look forward to year in, year out. The franchise returns this year with Madden NFL 25, which is not to be confused with 2013’s Madden 25, which was released that year to celebrate the franchise’s 25th anniversary.
In this post, we’re rounding up all the key details about Madden NFL 25, including what’s new this year, the release date, preorder information, the cover star, and more. One of the biggest storylines around EA and football games has nothing to do with Madden, as EA’s College Football 25 came out on July 19 and is putting up massive player numbers. Many are wondering what kind of impact the huge success of CFB 25 could have on Madden NFL 25, if it has any effect at all.
When will Madden NFL 25 release?
Madden NFL 25 releases on August 16, though people who buy the $100 deluxe edition can get started three days earlier, beginning August 13. If history is any indication, EA Play subscribers will be able to play a 10-hour trial of the game starting on that same date, which is a nice option to have for those who are curious about the game but unsure if they want to buy it outright.
Preorder Madden NFL 25
People can buy Madden NFL 25 by itself for $70 or grab the $100 deluxe edition. Additionally, EA is offering an MVP Bundle ($150) that includes the deluxe editions of both Madden NFL 25 and College Football 25 in one package. For more, be sure to consult GameSpot’s handy Madden NFL 25 preorder guide.
Madden NFL 25 ratings
One of the biggest talking points for all new Madden releases are the player ratings. Everyone wants to know how highly rated their favorite athlete is. And it also spawns some fun memes and social media reactions as some players will inevitably be disappointed with how their rating comes in. Player ratings for Madden NFL 25 will be revealed on ESPN from July 29-August 3. The reveals will happen on ESPN programs like Get Up, First Take, SportsCenter, and NFL Live.
You can see the full Madden NFL 25 player rating reveal schedule here.
Watch the Madden NFL 25 trailer
EA has released a few major Madden NFL 25 trailers so far, showing off some of what’s new in this year’s professional football simulator. Check out the trailers below, including the “deep dive” video that really gets in-depth on the new features and functionality for Madden NFL 25.
Madden NFL 25 platforms
Madden NFL 25 is coming to Xbox and PlayStation consoles, as well as PC via Steam, Epic Game Store, and the Windows Store.
Will Madden NFL 25 be on Xbox Game Pass?
Madden NFL 25 has not been announced for Xbox Game Pass. The game might eventually come to Game Pass via EA Play, but likely not for months. Madden NFL 24, for example, came to Game Pass during Super Bowl week in February 2024.
Who’s making Madden NFL 25?
Like previous entries in the series, Madden NFL 25 is being made by EA Orlando (formerly named Tiburon) and published by EA Sports. Clint Oldenburg, a veteran college and NFL player, is the production director on Madden NFL 25.
Madden NFL 25 cover star
Madden NFL 25 features none other than San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey on its cover. Fans of CMC aren’t universally thrilled, though, due to the so-called “Madden Curse.” It is indeed true that many former cover stars went on to get injured or sidelined after being selected for the cover, but the statistics have improved in recent years, thankfully.
What’s new in Madden NFL 25?
Madden NFL 25 has a number of updates and changes over previous installments, including what’s called “Boom Tech.” It’s a flashy marketing term for an overhauled physics and collision system that aims to make hits and collisions look and feel more powerful. Madden NFL 25 also has enhanced tackling and rushing systems, improvements to the hit stick, and better pass-protection adjustments for QBs.
The game also has multiple commentary teams this year, with the tenured pair of Brandon Gaudin and Charles Davis being joined by Mike Tirico and Greg Olsen, as well as Kate Scott and Brock Huard. Also new for the game is the ability to create a female head coach for your fantasy team. For a detailed breakdown of what’s new, be sure to read GameSpot’s extensive breakdown of 25 things coming to Madden NFL 25.