Madden NFL 22 Story Mode: A Step in the Right Direction for Franchise Mode?

The latest installment of the Madden franchise has brought some exciting changes to its story mode, giving fans a more immersive experience. While there are still some issues to be ironed out, Madden NFL 22's story mode is a significant improvement over previous years.

One of the most notable additions is the ability to hire ex-head coaches as coordinators. This feature allows for a level of realism that was lacking in previous versions. Each OC and DC is computer-generated and tailored to fit your team's scheme from the start, making it feel more authentic.

The 'Manage Staff' section has also been revamped, giving you greater control over your coaching staff. You can set goals for each coach, decide which players receive extra work, and adjust practice settings to keep fatigue low. This level of customization is a welcome addition to the franchise mode.

The new 'Weekly Strategy' menu is another highlight, allowing you to plan out your team's approach for the week ahead. From choosing play-calling strategies to setting defensive schemes, this feature gives you a sense of control over your team's success.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The gameplay still needs some tweaking, particularly in terms of mechanics and old habits. There have been instances where players ran the wrong routes or didn't run at all, and replays didn't always show the correct play being made. These issues can be frustrating, especially when they feel unfair.

On a more positive note, the new pre-game and post-game animations are a nice touch. Watching your players warm up, talk to coaches, and take pictures is a small but enjoyable aspect of the game.

The artwork on the field has also been updated, giving players more control over their receivers' movements. The 'secure catch' option has become my go-to choice, as it allows for a more realistic catching experience.

Overall, Madden NFL 22's story mode is a step in the right direction. While there are still some issues to be addressed, the new features and improvements make it a more engaging and immersive experience. With continued tweaking and refinement, this franchise mode has the potential to become one of the best in the series.

Madden nfl 22 story mode