Last, but not least, is online franchise. It's a feature that's touted in the game as being "the future" for the Madden series. With the amount of connectivity that the free-of-charge mode provides, you can understand why. Players will be able to set their depth chart, check their schedule, make trades and even draft through their internet connection on their computer. Yes, you can start a franchise with a fantasy draft. All of this is run through EA Sports World and the changes you make will be reflected on your console within moments. It's pretty cool. The only thing that's missing from the online interaction is the ability for the commissioner of the franchise to advance the week, thus simulating all uncompleted games on the schedule.
The Online Franchise interface for your computer.
There's also an iPhone app which will also be free to download and use. The app allows you to do a slightly limited version of what's available on your computer, but instead it's at your fingertips with your fancy Apple device. You'll be able to check your schedule, check box scores for games that have already happened, and get stats for individual players in your league. You'll also be able to make trades, switch around your depth chart and post and check on your message board. The only thing that's left off the list is drafting incoming rookies into your franchise. Deal with it, iPhone lover.
I had no issue signing up for my online franchise and immediately hopping into the league that had been setup by EA Sports. It took all of ten seconds to enter my activation code (which every new copy of Madden will ship with), enter my first and last name, and hop in to look around the league. The only problem I ran into had to do with the fact that only four human players were a part of my league. Since I hadn't scheduled a time to play, the Jaguars vs. Cardinals matchup that was staring me in the face would have to wait. My understanding is that once you hop into a game in Online Franchise Mode you'll get an identical experience as in a regular matchup on XBL or PSN.
