EA SPORTS™ Madden NFL 26

Players experienced significant frustration due to a multitude of technical issues, including frequent game crashes, infinite loading screens, and persistent bugs across various modes like Franchise and Superstar. Gameplay mechanics also caused frustration, with issues such as glitching tackling, excessive fumbles, broken AI, and unguardable plays. Additionally, poor optimization, input delay, and monetization practices in MUT contributed to player exasperation.

Disappointment stemmed from the game's perceived lack of significant improvements and innovation compared to previous Madden titles, often feeling like a 'copy and paste' with recurring bugs. Players were also let down by missing game modes, poor execution of new features, and the game's overall unpolished state, leading to a feeling of poor value for money and a 'cash grab' focus on card game elements.

Satisfaction was primarily driven by perceived improvements over recent Madden iterations, particularly in Franchise and Superstar modes, which were found to be fun and engaging. Players appreciated enhanced presentation, improved stability, and better overall gameplay feel, along with good graphics and a positive soundtrack, indicating a step in the right direction for the series.

Anger was directed at the developers, stemming from a belief that the game was released untested and that there was a focus on monetization (pay-to-win) over fixing bugs and improving game quality. Players felt the game offered minimal effort for its full price, leading to outrage over its unplayability and broken features.

Excitement was generated by significant improvements from the previous year, new features like pre-game cinematics and the wear and tear addition, and an overall positive impression of the game's quality. Many players felt it was one of the best Madden games in a long time, particularly enjoying the realistic feel and enhancements in Superstar mode.