EA released a new set of Gridiron Notes yesterday by Sean Graddy (Executive Producer) that provides the latest information about Franchise updates coming to Madden NFL 21. Below you will find a link to the full, detailed version released by EA as well as a brief summary.

To view the original Gridiron Notes for today's article, Click Here.

Summary

To better address community feedback regarding Franchise, EA is increasing their team resources to deliver more/improved core features to the Franchise mode in Madden 21 post-launch support, as well as Madden 22 initial launch. Because Madden is a true live service, users can expect content, features, and even new game modes released throughout the year based on feedback from social channels, the Gamechanger Program, and by simply evaluating how the community is playing the game. While an exact timeline is difficult to establish, the following areas have been targeted for meaningful change in Madden 21 and beyond (subject to change):

• TUNING - Improved progression and regression of players. Improve core player progression into the future such that X-Factors and other abilities for older players work well with incoming rookie classes.
• COMMISSIONER TOOLS - The goal here is to provide players with more control over their Franchise. The following Tools are currently on the to-do list (ranked by priority):

1. Ability to undo transactions, reducing friction and control over player movement contracts and trades.
2. Ability to approve trades.
3. Ability to reset a game in case of a disconnect.

• AI PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT - The AI will make better team management decisions in the draft, free agency, and trades.
• PLAYOFF and SUPER BOWL PRESENTATION - Improve and refresh.
• X-FACTOR / SUPERSTAR ABILITY CUSTOMIZATION - Introduce the ability to customize X-Factor and Abilities on all players, allowing you to customize your roster as you see fit.
• CAREERS STATS UI - Improved UI showing historical player performances. More immersion and depth on how players have progressed in your Franchise.
• TRADE LOGIC - More fidelity, depth, and authenticity.
• RETIREMENT UI - Better insight into retirements each season to allow players to react/manage.
• PLAYOFFS UPDATE - Add an authentic playoff bracket screen to see who’s in, who’s won and who’s up next.

Since video games like Madden take thorough planning ahead of time, Madden 22 is already in the first stages of pre-production for the following year's product. While the following areas have not been set in stone, they are currently being explored creatively for enhancements:

• Coaching and staff management
• Scouting improvements
• New scenario engine enhancements
• New team chemistry system
• Commissioner Tools improvements
• MORE CONTENT - Examples: Relocation/Branding Assets for Franchise - New uniforms, names, and logos to relocation options for more variety and depth in deeper careers.

EA has been using a feedback platform known as Madden Voice to review, investigate, and identify popular feedback to make improvements to Madden NFL 21. After a new feature is revealed, EA gathers and analyzes feedback in order to make adjustments and share their plans (when possible). As we get closer to launch, more information will be provided on the Madden Voice platform.

What are your thoughts on EA's plans for the future of Franchise Mode? Share your feedback with us in the comments below.