
Madden Creative Director Suddenly Departs in the Midst of Madden 19's Development
Rex Dickson departs EA, with Mike Young reportedly taking the helm.
Madden NFL creative director Rex Dickson will be leaving EA after more than a decade with the publisher, he revealed today.
In a statement posted to Twitter, Dickson wrote that the decision was undertaken after discussions with team leadership. "We collectively agreed this was the best path forward for everyone involved. This is as much for me and my family as it is about giving the team, the community, and the Madden franchise a chance for a new direction."
Dickson's sudden departure comes in the middle of Madden 19's development, making it something of a surprise. Nevertheless, Dickson said there was "no drama or deeper story" to his departure in his statement. Mike Young, who helped create last year's successful Longshot mode, will reportedly take the reins as creative director.
Time to confirm the rumors. I have left EA Tiburon and the Madden team. Statement below. pic.twitter.com/4eiJlrkxUU
— Rex Dickson (@RexDEAFootball) May 3, 2018
Dickson has been Madden's creative director since 2013's Madden 25, taking over after a wave of high-profile departures. Prior to that, Dickson had been in charge of the NCAA Football series, which shutdown the following year due to licensing issues.
Dickson steered Madden through the difficult transition into the current generation, focusing most of his energies on gameplay and graphics. The series has made large positive strides in that time. I gave Madden 18 a 4.5 in my review, praising its gameplay improvements and the new Longshot mode.
"I am filled with hope when I think about the passion of those who will pick up the flag and fight on for the future of the Madden franchise," Dickson wrote.
Madden 19 hasn't been formally announced yet, but it should be launching in August as usual.
In other news
Xbox Is Hosting a Space Jam Game Jam Design Contest
We got a real (game) jam goin' now.
EA Agrees to $1.2 Billion Deal for Codemasters, Take-Two Now Reconsidering Its Lower Bid
Two publishing giants want the makers of the Dirt and Formula One games.
Windjammers 2 Delayed To 2021 As Devs Explore Adding Rollback Netcode
In pursuit of a disc-flinging esports renaissance, Dotemu's leaving this sequel in the oven a bit longer.
NC Dinos Celebrate First Korean Series Title, Hoist Video Game Sword
You call a cup a trophy? This is a trophy.
Need help?
FIFA 20 Best Young Players: Hidden Gems and Wonderkids With High Potential
Here’s a list of the players that have the most to gain in overall rating.
Madden 20 Face of the Franchise Tips - Teams, How to Get Drafted, and More
Here's our walkthrough for Madden 20's Face of the Franchise mode, featuring all the NFL teams, how to get drafted, and more.
All the Best Madden 20 Offensive Money Plays
Here's our guide compiling all the best Madden 20 money plays in one place, so you know which run or pass play to call whenever.
Madden 20: The Best Offensive Playbooks to Use
This is our walkthrough of the best Madden 20 offensive playbooks you can always rely on.