Madden NFL 26 shows gradual improvement with a higher Metacritic score than previous entries, especially praised for its revamped Franchise Mode, but overall minor upgrades and technical issues on the Switch version prevent it from reaching former heights, indicating the series is on a slow recovery path.
Madden NFL 26 offers authentic gameplay and improved presentation but is marred by bugs, glitches, and poor strategic implementation, making it feel unpolished and not ready for prime time despite strong fundamentals.
A new lineup of Xbox games is launching from August 11 to August 17, including Madden NFL 26, along with other titles like Echoes of the End, Ra Ra Boom, and the Heretic + Hexen remaster available on Game Pass. The week features a variety of genres, from action-adventure to puzzle and platformers, catering to diverse gaming preferences.
The review of Madden NFL 26 highlights significant improvements such as a revamped Skills Trainer with more detailed tutorials, an overhauled Franchise mode with new coach creation and skill point system, faster gameplay, and the introduction of Wear and Tear injury system. While some issues like loading times and frequent changes to QB throwing motions are noted, overall the reviewer is impressed with the new features and updates, though more playtime is needed for a final verdict.
Madden NFL 26 on Switch 2 is a significant improvement over previous ports, offering solid gameplay, enhanced presentation, and better tutorials, despite some initial server issues and a lower 40fps frame rate in docked mode. It provides a near-console experience for Switch owners, making it a highly recommended version for both newcomers and fans of the franchise.
In August 2025, Nintendo Switch 2 owners can look forward to a variety of new titles including Madden NFL 26, Drag x Drive, Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, a Switch 2 edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, with upcoming releases in September such as Star Wars Outlaws and a sequel to Daemon x Machina, alongside ongoing anticipation for Metroid Prime 4.
A Pittsburgh Steelers rookie, Jack Sawyer, received a Madden NFL 26 rating of 72, matching the overall grade of the No. 1 draft pick, Cam Ward, highlighting his perceived value despite being a fourth-round pick. The rating suggests Sawyer is viewed as a promising player, and early training camp signs indicate he may contribute early in his NFL career.
The Madden NFL 26 trailer features a Seattle Seahawks player wearing No. 33, who is identified as cornerback Tyler Hall, despite initial speculation it might be Jamal Adams. The trailer highlights realistic gameplay elements like weather effects, and the appearance has sparked curiosity among fans. Madden 26 is set to release on August 14.
Saquon Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles star running back, has been named the cover athlete for Madden NFL 26, featuring his iconic play from last season and celebrating his NFL rushing record, marking a significant milestone in his career and Eagles history.
Saquon Barkley, a Super Bowl champion and NFL record-setter, is the cover athlete for Madden NFL 26 and the first Eagles offensive player to join the Madden 99 Club, reflecting his outstanding performance in the 2024 season.
Saquon Barkley, the Eagles running back, will be featured on the cover of Madden NFL 26 and has been named to the Madden 99 Club, marking a historic achievement for an Eagles offensive player. His remarkable season, highlighted by a record-breaking 2,504 rushing yards and a signature reverse hurdle play, has earned him widespread recognition and celebrates his athletic prowess.