Review
The Madden series finally makes its debut on the Playstation in time for the 1996 football season. After scrapping a planned Madden NFL 96, EA Sports focused on delivering the classic gameplay fans would expect from the series, while making the technological leap to 32-bit. How would it fare, especially in light of Sony's GameDay franchise? Madden NFL 97 delivers big-time with its exciting presentation and features, but falls miserably short of the endzone with its weak artificial intelligence (AI).
The first time you place the CD in the little grey box, you can't help but be amazed. The gorgeous full-motion video clips, fields that look much better than those in NFL GameDay '97, players who are tall and wear nicely detailed uniforms, even mini color photos that pop-up along with a player's in-game stats after key plays. Another nice touch is the touchdown celebrations: fluid motion-captured dances that have players showboating in style. The only things that really need improvement (from a visual standpoint) are the somewhat choppy movement of players on the field and the pixels that show up in the closer camera angles. Speaking of player movement, there is a rather disturbing "floaty" feeling while controlling your players. This makes it hard to tackle and intercept passes since it's too easy to overrun your target. Tap the pad gently left or right and the player will move his legs like he's jogging against the wind or on a sheet of ice, despite moving only one step! An option to set the physics like in GameDay '97 would have been welcome here.
Madden NFL 97's biggest flaw, however, is that there are too many ways to beat the computer even at the highest difficulty. Plays that work every single time for big yardage or "money plays" are prevalent and the computer never adjusts to stop them. In addition, you cannot lead receivers and passes always appear to be underthrown. Successful passing, therefore, involves first throwing to a receiver, quickly tapping a button to take control and then moving him in front of the target or yellow circle. As long as you consistently move in front of the computer defender(s), you'll catch it nearly every time. Once you have possession, you can also take advantage of the fact that the computer doesn't chase the ball carrier correctly, so if you keep weaving back and forth diagonally you'll pick up a lot of extra yards. Yet no matter how fast your receiver is, you'll eventually get tackled as the computer has a nasty habit of quickly catching you from behind.
Despite the problems with the AI and control, there are a lot of things this game does right: penalties, extensive options, stats, crisp sound, detailed stadiums and fantastic in-game highlights with player photos. The game's TV-like presentation is incredibly polished and a joy to behold. That's why it is so frustrating (dare I say maddening?) that the AI is as sloppy as it is. If the developers can tighten this area up for their next release, the franchise may be able to reclaim the football throne. In the meantime, Sony is keeping it nice and warm.
Graphics 
The graphics are well-done aside from some slightly choppy player movement. The menu screens are exceptional with large, colorful team logos and easy-to-read text.
Sound 
Sound is impressive. The first time I heard the crowd chant "Defense" on third down I nearly fell out of my chair. It's LOUD, like it should be. The only problem is that it always sounds the same on every third down--there needs to be more variety in the crowd noise. Madden will also comment on the action with his infamous "Maddenisms" and he's never sounded better.
Enjoyment 
The AI ruins the single player experience, but younger players may not recognize the flaws. If you like to compete with friends, however, this is a very fun game.
Replay Value
Again, the AI hurts the chances of playing against the computer when you know how to consistently defeat it. Multiplayer options significantly add to the replay value.
Documentation
I remember a time when Madden game manuals were as thick as a Porterhouse steak. Now all we get is the basics, but the game is still explained well. I miss the player ratings!
