How to Play Franchise Mode in Madden 24
Franchise Mode in Madden 24 is one of the most immersive and strategic game modes available, offering players the chance to build, manage, and lead their favorite NFL team to glory. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, mastering Franchise Mode requires a combination of skill, strategy, and patience. In this guide, we’ll break down how to play Franchise Mode in Madden 24, covering everything from the basics to advanced tips.
Understanding Franchise Mode
Franchise Mode is a long-term game mode where you take control of an NFL team, either as a player, coach, or owner. Your goal is to guide your team through multiple seasons, making decisions on roster management, playoff runs, and even offseason moves. The mode is designed to simulate the real-life challenges of running an NFL franchise, making it one of the most rewarding experiences in Madden 24.
Starting Your Franchise
Choosing Your Team: When you start a new Franchise Mode, you can choose to play as any of the 32 NFL teams. Each team comes with its own strengths, weaknesses, and roster composition. If you’re new to Franchise Mode, consider starting with a team you’re familiar with or one that has a strong roster to give yourself a better chance of success.
Customizing Your Experience: Before diving into your first season, you can customize various settings to tailor your experience. These include difficulty level, game length, and player development options. Adjust these settings to suit your playstyle and skill level.
Setting Goals: Each team in Franchise Mode has team goals and player goals. These goals are based on your team’s real-life performance and can range from winning a certain number of games to developing young players. Completing these goals can earn you XP and rewards, which can be used to improve your team.
Managing Your Team
Roster Management: One of the most critical aspects of Franchise Mode is managing your roster. This includes signing free agents, trading players, and drafting rookies. A well-rounded roster with a good mix of veterans and young talent is key to long-term success.
Budget Management: Managing your team’s salary cap is crucial in Franchise Mode. Overspending on high-priced free agents can leave you with limited resources in future seasons. Always keep an eye on your cap space and plan accordingly.
Player Development: Developing young players is essential for building a sustainable franchise. Use training camp and practice sessions to improve your players’ skills, and consider investing in coaching staff to accelerate their development.
Team Chemistry: Team chemistry plays a significant role in your team’s performance. Keeping your players happy and maintaining a positive locker room environment can boost your team’s morale and performance on the field.
On-Field Strategy
Game Planning: Before each game, spend time reviewing your game plan. Analyze your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your play-calling and defensive schemes accordingly. A well-prepared game plan can give you a significant edge on game day.
Play Calling: In Franchise Mode, you can choose to either simulate games or play them manually. If you decide to play games manually, make sure to adapt your play-calling based on the situation. For example, run the ball more in the fourth quarter to drain the clock if you’re leading.
Adjusting on the Fly: No matter how well you prepare, things won’t always go as planned. Be ready to make in-game adjustments, such as changing your defensive strategy or switching to a hurry-up offense if you’re trailing late in the game.
Player Fatigue: Keep an eye on your players’ fatigue levels throughout the season. Overworking your star players can lead to injuries, which can derail your season. Make sure to give your backups playing time to keep your starters fresh.
Navigating the Offseason
Free Agency: The free agency period is a great opportunity to fill gaps in your roster. However, be cautious not to overspend on players who don’t fit your long-term vision for your team.
NFL Draft: The NFL Draft is a cornerstone of Franchise Mode. Use your draft picks wisely to address your team’s needs and build for the future. Don’t be afraid to trade up or down to get the players you want.
Re-signing Players: As the season progresses, some of your key players will enter the final year of their contracts. Prioritize re-signing