Madden 21 Gameplay Footage: EA Shows New Pass Rushing System, Ball Carrier Skill Stick Controls
EA is taking things in new directions when it comes to some of the upcoming Madden 21 gameplay controls. In a brand new preview video, we’re now seeing a closer look at how the pass-rushing and ball carrier controls will work in the new title. That includes some changes to how gamers control pass rushers and a few updates to the available moves for those rushing the ball.
Madden 21 gameplay deep dive shows new pass-rushing, ball carrier moves
In anticipation of the next edition of the popular football video game, EA released a new Madden 21 gameplay “deep dive” video on social media. In that video, they explained more about how some of the new controls will work on both sides of the ball. It’s a better look at gameplay than previously seen in the Madden 21 trailer or EA Play next-gen footage.
For example, they updated how pass-rushing will work with “all-new defensive lineman canons.” All pass rush moves are now on the right stick and triggers. An on-field trainer will give feedback such as how many moves or attempts on any play with feedback on it being successful or not.
There’s also a new Ball Carrier Skill Stick system for rushing the ball where gamers can use the stick to combine moves. Two new moves are available with side hurdle (Jurdle) and the dead leg. As mentioned in the video, these are becoming increasingly popular in today’s NFL amongst rushers.
Gamers will be able to combine those moves along with the traditional jukes and spins for more creative ways to get past the opposition.
The developers made some improvements to breakdown tackling as well, possibly with new animations. As noted in the deep dive video, Madden 21 has Realistic Open Field Tackling.
This is where AI and user defenders will break down to prepare for contact to make tackles seem more real. Just like Madden 20, timing will still be key in getting the tackles right.
More realistic gameplay also included?
It seems EA is trying to focus on how good the gameplay can look and feel during games ahead of the PS5 and Xbox Series X. In the Madden 21 gameplay video above, they indicated the “authenticity and presentation of each game is also improved.”
Players will keep momentum as they run out of bounds and use extra effort when reaching for extra yards. Quarterbacks have more authentic throws when they’re under pressure or hit.
Players will also be more aware of the other players around them, according to the deep dive. In addition, there are all sorts of new user-controlled celebrations available after game-changing plays. Whether or not gamers are celebrating these changes remains to be seen.
This Thursday (June 25), there will be a longer online presentation discussing the updates for Madden 21 gameplay and other features. That will take place on the EA Madden NFL Twitch channel with Clint Oldenburg.
The $60 Standard Edition Madden 21 game arrives for Windows PCs, PS4, and Xbox One consoles on Aug. 28. Deluxe Edition ($80) and Madden MVP Edition ($100) pre-orders get bonus content, including the ability to play the game three days earlier.
Visit our Madden news page to get more of the latest game updates.