Madden 2005 is the Don of the Madden family. It's got all the bells and whistles a hardcore fan (or American) has come to expect from a game that captures every single aspect of American Football. This time round there's even an option to create a fan! Madden 2005 leaves no stone unturned...

As with most American sports games, the Franchise mode is the serious area of the game. This mode allows you to create a team from scratch and make it stronger over many seasons as you try and reach ultimate fame and fortune in the Super Bowl. You can tinker around with player salaries, personalities, stadium entry prices, tactics and formations. There's that much depth, it'll make you queasy if you bite off too much too soon - especially if you're a casual fan of the sport. The Quick Match option, however, allows you to jump right into the action with all your favourite teams available from the word go.

As the series has progressed over 15 years, so have the visuals. We'll never tire of looking at the game's incredible animation: every player looks and moves extremely realistically but the closer up you go the more frightening it gets. This level of animation makes Madden a pleasure to watch and really brings the stadium to life. Add in the excellent rolling commentary (way better than any other sports game) and crowd interaction and you'll be forgiven for thinking you're watching the real thing. The atmosphere is awesome, especially if you're playing through a wicked surround sound set-up.

This annual update has brought with it a few new gameplay tweaks too. The biggest is the Hit Stick function. By using the Right thumbstick it's possible to unleash an almighty hit at your nearest opponent. The bigger the better and this seriously ups your chances of making the opposition fumble the ball. Of course there are numerous new options to change plays at the last minute and keep your enemy guessing. But the great thing is you can take it as seriously or as casually as you like. You don't have to be an ex-NFL player to understand it all, newcomers are catered for perfectly with a vast array of training and practice options.

Madden 2005 has taken the US by storm, even more so than usual. This has got to be down to the inclusion of Xbox Live play. Online it's possible to take part in quick tournaments and compete for trophies and medals. This gives the whole game an extra lift and it's something we've been waiting for since Madden hopped onto Xbox back in 2002. US retailers have even begun taking pre-orders for Madden 2006!

1. Captures the razzmatazz of each game perfectly. TV companies could learn a thing or two from Madden's presentation.
2. It's a massive game, but if you're new to the sport, don't let its depth and detail put you off. Beginner options are included.
3. Thanks to EA fully embracing Xbox Live, the experience will only get better as you take on the Yanks at their own sport.
4. Visuals are incredible. The players look and move like they would in real life. This is enhanced by great commentary.
5. The franchise mode will keep you busy for months. It adds a great deal of strategy to the game.

It's better than watching American football on Five in the middle of the night. Live play is the icing on the cake.