Madden NFL 2001

Madden NFL 2001 is an American football simulation developed by EA Tiburon and published by EA Sports as the final Madden entry for the Nintendo 64. The cover features Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George, marking the first time a player appeared prominently on the box art instead of John Madden himself. The game includes all 31 NFL teams from the 2000 season with updated rosters, plus NFL Europe teams, All-Madden squads, and unlockable classic and fictional teams. Game modes include Exhibition, Season, Franchise, Custom League (4-8 players), Tournament, Practice, Situation (recreate any football scenario), and the new Two-Minute Drill – a fast-paced party mode where up to ten players compete for points. The Madden Cards system returns with 297 cards that unlock secret players, special teams, stadiums, and gameplay cheats. Supports up to four players and Controller Pak saves.

Nintendo 64

Released in North America on September 5, 2000, and in Europe on October 6, 2000. Critical reception was generally positive. Reviewers praised the deep Franchise mode, excellent artificial intelligence where teams play true to their real-life styles, and massive replay value from the 297 Madden Challenges. The Situation mode was lauded for allowing players to recreate historic NFL moments. However, graphics drew criticism: player models appeared noticeably blockier and more jagged than Madden 2000. The frame rate, while playable, suffered occasional slowdown. Commentary from Madden and Summerall was criticized as repetitive and poorly compressed. Despite these flaws, gameplay remained solid and responsive, with improved defensive AI and a strong running game. The best N64 Madden available – highly recommended for football fans on the platform, despite its dated visuals.