New Trailer and Blocking Videos for Next-Gen Madden NFL 25

EA Sports today released a new gameplay trailer for Madden NFL 25 along with three clips showing the rewritten offensive line blocking logic in action with a focus on pass blocking.

The problem EA has faced as of late is that many of the improvements they have touted aren’t translating properly or being recognized and flashy trailers aren’t going to change that now that real gameplay and replay footage have circulated. Those who have seen the game up close and played it have reported there isn’t much of a visual jump and the gameplay feels largely the same as current-gen. The blocking examples shown today do a far better job of demonstrating some tangible advancements being made however.

PASS BLOCK LOCOMOTION AND PASS SETS
The Gen 4 consoles and EA SPORTS IGNITE provide a lot more animation memory than their predecessors, so the Madden NFL development team utilized this increased horsepower to provide proper footwork and pass-sets for each offensive blocker. Linemen will intelligently use correct footwork on each play as they process the location of their targets provided by the pre-snap targeting system. They are also aware of how deep the quarterback is supposed to drop back on each pass play. The depth of their sets will match up to each quarterback drop, from quick one-step drops to plays out of the Shotgun. Center and Guards will provide the depth of the pocket, while the tackles are responsible for the pocket’s width.

This logic is not just specific to the offensive line. When running backs and tight ends are included in the protection, they too will take the correct steps to properly block their targets. Better yet, the offensive line will be fully aware when extra blockers are involved in the play.

PASS BLOCK DOUBLE TEAMS
Since the offensive line is a single unit, all linemen must work together. Nothing shows an offensive line working together more than a double team. The dev team is extremely excited to address the community’s biggest legacy concerns and get this fundamental into Madden NFL 25.

Pass-blockers use all the information given to them through the targeting systems to decide when to double team. Blockers will know when to leave a double team in order to pick up a blitzer. Even running backs can get in on the action and will double team if there are no other defenders for them to target. Gone are the days of the “cheesy” Quarter defense 3-Man rush as a base defense – the 3-vs.-6-rush will no longer be a viable option for an entire defensive gameplan.

PASS RUSH ANIMATIONS
We didn’t just give all the love to the offensive line. We’ve also added well more than 300 new pass-rush animations to Madden NFL 25 on Xbox One and PlayStation 4. The ratings-based animations are sure to provide constant pressure on the QB, so you won’t feel so comfortable standing in the pocket too long or dropping back 15 yards to throw a curl route.

Pass rushers now force QB’s to step up into the pocket and throw the ball on time – or pay the consequences. All of the new animation coverage, which also includes engaged interactions, really bring the physical nature of the trenches to life and make the offensive and defensive lines a real key to success just like in the NFL.