Madden NFL

Madden NFL is an annual American football video game series developed by EA Sports and based on the National Football League (NFL).

Madden NFL is an annual American football video game series developed by EA Sports and based on the National Football League (NFL). Named after coach and commentator John Madden, the franchise began as John Madden Football and has become one of the best-known sports game series.

What it is

Madden NFL is a long-running sports video game franchise centered on professional American football. Its gameplay is built around simulation of NFL teams, players, and seasons, with annual updates reflecting real-world rosters and rules. EA Sports has held exclusive NFL licensing rights since 2005, making Madden the only game series with all NFL teams and players.

Key details

The franchise began in 1988 as John Madden Football and later became Madden NFL in 1993. The latest released game is Madden NFL 26 (2025), with Madden NFL 27 announced by EA. The series has sold over 150 million copies worldwide as of 2021 and is widely recognized as one of the most commercially successful sports video game franchises.

Why it matters

Madden NFL is influential in both gaming culture and real-world football strategy. Its annual releases are followed by Canadian fans of the NFL and sports video games, and the game is widely available in Canada through major retailers and digital stores.