Madden is all about playing the wind while playing to win. Whether you are kicking off or receiving the ball you must consider the direction of the wind. The direction of the wind helps you to determine the strategy of your game plan. Choosing to have the wind go against you in the first quarter of the game means that you will most likely have the wind at your back in the fourth quarter. I used the term most likely because the wind is supposed to be unpredictable but the game is man made so the makers try to reward those who use the best strategy.
How to be a successful passer using the wind:
To be a successful passer in Madden is determined by how well you play the wind. For example, in whatever direction the wind is blowing that will determine what type of touch you use on your pass. Lobbing a pass will give the wind more of an opportunity to influence the direction of the ball and where it lands. The wind has less influence on a pass that is thrown hard. Madden people know what I’m talking about. Don’t misunderstand me, your quarterback’s drop back and the line protection is still important to the success in completing a pass. If you gat sacked all this means nothing.
The kicking game and the wind:
The accuracy of your kicks be they kickoff, punt, or field goal, are affected by the wind. You should direct the kicking arrow up if you want the wind to influence the accuracy of your kicks. On the other hand, the kicking arrow should be lowered if you want the wind to have less of an influence on the accuracy of your kick. How you or your opponents decide to block a kick will influence its results, but only if you play the wind correctly.
Playing defense with the wind:
Using the wind to play defense is a very strategic way to defend your opponent. At some point your opponent will have to pass and you will know something they don’t, hopefully. I often use the wind to help me dictate where my opponent can pass the ball. The majority of Madden “Ballers” like to pass the ball at least 70% of the time. I often get at least two interceptions per game.
In real life football, there is no directional arrow to constantly show you where the wind is blowing. You would probably have to look at the flags on the goal post to give you an indication of what direction the wind is blowing. But, this is Madden and you get the advantage of adjusting to something before it impacts your expected outcome. So, consider playing the wind before you play to win.