When is the Madden 23 release date? Cost, new features, editions & everything else to know in 2022

Joe Rivera

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When is the Madden 23 release date? Cost, new features, editions & everything else to know in 2022 image

Get ready to call in sick: The countdown to Maddenoliday is on.

"Madden" is once again coming to consoles this August, and this year's edition could feature a few welcome changes that long-time players have been clamoring for.

The all-new "FieldSENSE" technology being introduced in this year's game could change the way that the game plays drastically: With new branches of animations, the game is expected to look fresher and less robotic than it has in years past. 

FieldSENSE also allows for more natural gameplay: On defense, you'll have a bit more control over tackling as opposed to whiffing on every hit-stick you try, while on offense, you'll have more control over where and how a runner will run the ball.

Also coming to this year's game is a new skill-based throwing system, which introduces an accuracy reticle and a throwing meter to give a player more control over where and how they throw the ball on offense.

MORE: Madden ratings tracker — What to know about the game's best players

The Sporting News looks at what you need to know about "Madden 23": 

Madden 23 release date

  • Date: Friday, Aug. 19

As is custom, "Madden 23" hits retail shelves in mid-August, with this year's edition set for an Aug. 19 release.

For players preordering the "All-Madden" edition of the game, there will be an early access period, with gamers allowed to play on Tuesday, Aug. 16.

Madden 23 price

  • PS4, Xbox One, PC: $59.99 (Standard edition)
  • PS5, Xbox Series S/X: $69.99 (Standard edition)
  • All-Madden edition: $99.99 (All platforms)

The standard edition for next-gen consoles is set at a customary $69.99, with last-gen consoles and PC coming in at $10 cheaper, set at $59.99.

Across all platforms, the All-Madden edition is set for $99.99. 

Unlike years prior, there are just two editions of the game: the standard and All-Madden editions. The All-Madden edition is only available digitally. 

The standard edition just comes with the game, while the All-Madden upgrade comes with the following perks:

  • 3-Day Early Access starting Aug. 16
  • 4600 Madden Points
  • Limited-time All-Madden Team Elite Player with pre-order by July 22
  • Dual Entitlement (Upgrade to one of PS4/PS5 or Xbox Series S/X edition)
  • Exclusive Early Access Challenges in Madden NFL 23 Ultimate Team from Aug. 16 through Aug. 18
  • Choice of 2 Elite Players (1 Offensive & 1 Defensive) in Madden NFL 23 Ultimate Team
  • All Madden Gear to use in Madden NFL 23 Ultimate Team and The Yard
  • Madden Strategy Item in Madden NFL 23 Ultimate Team

Madden 23 player ratings

Player ratings for specific position groups will be revealed throughout the week of July 18. For a list of ratings, visit here.

Madden 23 new features

FieldSENSE

The biggest change coming to "Madden 23" is the foundation. EA Sports is introducing "FieldSENSE" to this year's installment, which focuses on changing animations and providing a new, more realistic feel to the game.

Per the Madden website: "FieldSENSE leverages animation branching technology and a suite of new user control mechanics for a seamless gameplay flow with authentic results on every play."

What this seems to mean: less familiar animations, more natural, free-flowing elements of the game.

FieldSENSE will only be available on the next-gen versions of the game.

Franchise mode

The folks at EA have made Franchise mode a priority after hearing gamers voice their issues with it for the last few years. This year, they're making more fixes: There's a new focus on free agency and "player motivations," a new free agency hub and more.

Madden 23 cover

This year's Madden cover pays tribute to John Madden himself, after his passing in December 2021.

The Hall of Fame coach and broadcaster graces the cover of both editions of the game on both console generations.

The All-Madden edition cover is an allusion to the first-ever Madden game, John Madden Football, released in 1988.

What consoles is Madden 23 on?

The following consoles will have a version of Madden:

  • PlayStation 4
  • PlayStation 5
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X
  • Xbox Series X
  • PC

Unlike years past, only the All-Madden edition is capable of Dual Entitlement.

Meaning, if you purchase the PS4 version of the game, you will not be able to upgrade to the PS5 version of the game. Instead, you'll have to buy the PS5 version of the game later.

How to play Madden 23 early

If you preorder the All-Madden edition of the game, you will get three days of early access. This is the only edition of the game available for early access.

Joe Rivera

Joe Rivera Photo

Joe Rivera is in his seventh year with The Sporting News, handling NFL, MLB and some things pro wrestling. A proud-ish Rutgers University graduate, Rivera combines a new-school flair with an old-school soul. He loves dingers, wrestling, comic books, movies, music and really bad puns. He is also a card-carrying BBWAA member and teaches Multimedia Sports Reporting at his alma mater.

You can find him and tweet him @JoeRiveraSN, if you're into that sort of thing.