A new Madden NFL game releases every year like clockwork, so it's no surprise that Madden NFL 21 is launching in a few months time. But since the launch of Madden NFL 21 predates the likely Xbox Series X release date by a few months, it was unclear if the sports game would be available for the next-generation console or not. As has been confirmed during the May 7 Inside Xbox presentation, Madden NFL 21 is indeed coming to the Xbox Series X, ushering in the storied football franchise for next-generation consoles.
Madden NFL 21 was announced for Xbox Series X by Patrick Mahomes, the cover athlete of Madden NFL 20. The Madden NFL 21 reveal included the first-ever look at Madden NFL gameplay running on Xbox Series X, showing that the franchise's reputation for high-quality visuals will be maintained in the transition to the next-generation consoles.
Mahomes claims in the video that Madden NFL 21 will support the Xbox Series X Smart Delivery program, but it appears as though there is a catch to that. Those that purchase Madden NFL 21 on Xbox One by December 31 will be able to upgrade to the Xbox Series X version for free if they do so by March 31, 2021. This is similar to the Smart Delivery program, but it's definitely a catch that fans should be made aware of.
This isn't the first time we've heard of Madden NFL 21. While most assumed the game would be coming, it wasn't officially confirmed until Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was prematurely revealed to be the game's cover athlete.
In the meantime, those looking forward to more Madden NFL 21 news will likely get their wish next month. EA Play will be live on June 11 as part of the Summer Game Fest event, and it's there where fans will likely learn more about Madden NFL 21 and EA's other next-generation games.
Madden NFL 21 launches later this year for Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and various other systems.