'Madden NFL 16' release date, pre-order details announced

Madden NFL 16 cover featuring Odell Beckham Jr.EA Sports

EA Sports has just launched the first trailer for the upcoming "Madden NFL 16," the latest in the long-running "Madden" video game series, and the only series with fully licensed NFL teams and players. The trailer revealed not only the game's focus on playmakers and stronger defense gameplay but also the game's official release date. 

According to the iDigital Times, "Madden NFL 16" will be launched in North America on Aug. 25 while it will be released in Europe a few days later, on Aug. 29. The game will roll out for the PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.  

Who would be featured on the game's cover was a hot topic for loyal fans of the sport and the game series. EA Sports ran a cover vote and this eventually led to the choices being slimmed down to Odell Beckham Jr. of the New York Giants and Rob Gronkowski of the New England Patriots. In the end, Beckham Jr. was voted as the top pick. 

"Odell Beckham Jr. is a true playmaker and a perfect fit for this year's game," said EA Sports Senior Director for Marketing Randy Chase, as cited by iDigital Times. "He's an unstoppable force out on the field, and the Madden NFL 16 cover is further vindication that the fans believe he's a player to watch in the coming years." 

EA Sports also revealed the bonuses for pre-order deals. Gamers who order the game early will be given $15 in the game's Ultimate Team content, which includes 10 Pro Packs as well as a Playmaker Pack for the Madden Ultimate Team. This Playmaker Pack will give one Elite NFL player that gives gamers an advantage right at the beginning of the game. 

There is also the Deluxe Edition for those who want even more. This gives gamers up to 36 Pro Packs and the Playmaker Pack. The Deluxe Edition costs a total of $69.99.