Pre-E3 2009: Madden 10

We all know that the Nintendo Wii is not nearly as powerful or as beloved by the hardcore sports fanatic. This has not stopped EA from trying to find the right formula to bring their phenomenal football franchise to the masses of casual players on the Wii. Past attempts have been left with lukewarm responses but Tiburon has been given the reigns to try it once more in Madden 10 for the Wii.

The first thing evident about the Wii game is the difference in characters. Players have body styles that are more fitting of their positions. Wide Receivers will be skinny while the linemen will be a bit beefier.

Besides solidifying the look of the characters, Madden 10 will feature Madden Showdown. This is a two player mode that will pit you and a buddy against each other in 5 on 5 or 11 on 11 modes. Madden Showdown is fast-paced, frantic, and is perfect for those looking for an arcade experience with lots of points being scored. To help make things a little more crazy, you choose a variety of options that will appear in the game. This includes making players invisible, crazy fumbles on single plays, and the ability to steal touchdowns away. Players can even bet for against their team and earn points if their bets come true.

Football gameplay is very easy to pick up and flicking your wrist to perform most stiff arms and special moves. If you want to pass, players point to the receiver they want to throw and if they aren't open, the player will light up in red. This is not for the hardcore football base--but the Wii version of Madden is not built for them.

It looks like Madden 10 has a good mix of gameplay and causal elements that may make it a huge hit with the Wii audience. There is not danger of the Wii version of Madden eclipsing the PS3 and 360 versions--but the game should find a nice fit to its intended audience. Madden 10 ships in August.