Review of Madden NFL 07

After a false start on the PSP that forced a full recall, Madden 06 was a contender. Had it not been for the franchise-killing glitch that caused the PSP to lock up post-game, the handheld version of EA Sports sales juggernaut was fantastic. Madden 07 is the game 06 wanted to be, and it's on par with any version of the game currently available.

It's easy enough to pass this off as Madden 07 light. Features are missing, including the Superstar mode. It's replaced by an odd "End to End" in which players turn the PSP vertical and dodge incoming tacklers on their way to the endzone. It's definitely enjoyable and a unique way to use otherwise basic hardware. Mini-games included here are actually higher in number with eight widely varied modes to choose from. There are also two incredible NFL Channel video features, one of Madden and another on Madden's reign during the Raiders run with him on the sidelines.

Familiar features, including the ability to play your PS2 franchise on your PSP when you're on the go, don't jump out immediately. These are expected inclusions, in addition to easy-to-jump-into online play on EA's lag-free servers. The franchise mode offers the basics without becoming too complex. The PSP does struggle when simulating non-user games, taking an exuberant amount of time to complete the task.

Where this edition excels is the game play. The controls, while slightly crammed into the PSP's lacking button configuration, include the wide array of offensive and defensive maneuvers. The Hit Stick makes an appearance, activated in conjunction with the triangle button. This can make defending difficult since the jump button is also set to triangle, leading to an unintentional hit as the ball draws near. Be prepared for a few cheap pass interference calls until you can adjust.

Jukes are handled in classic form, while the ability to pull off power moves specific to your running back are handled like the hit stick. This makes it impossible to use the speed burst with the default controls, and you'll need to change the turbo button to a trigger.