Can I Play Madden 20 Without EA Access? Your Ultimate Guide
Yes, you can absolutely play Madden 20 without EA Access, but there are caveats. While Madden NFL 20 was removed from the EA Play library in March 2022, meaning you can no longer access it through your subscription, you can still play the game if you own a purchased copy for your chosen platform (PS4, Xbox One, or PC). The key is ownership – if you bought the game outright, you’re good to go. This guide provides a complete overview on how to keep playing Madden 20.
Understanding the EA Access Shift
For a while, EA Access (now EA Play) and its premium counterpart, EA Play Pro, offered a convenient way to play a rotating library of EA titles, including various Madden NFL entries. However, these services operate on a subscription basis. When a game is removed from the library, access is revoked unless you independently own a copy. This is the case with Madden 20, since it has been removed from the library.
Ownership is Key
The crucial distinction to understand is the difference between accessing a game through a subscription and owning a game outright. With EA Play, you’re essentially renting access to the game. Once it leaves the service, your rental period ends. If you purchased Madden 20 digitally or physically, that ownership remains, allowing you to continue playing.
Online vs. Offline Modes
Regardless of whether you initially played Madden 20 through EA Access or as an outright purchase, your ability to play also depends on whether you want to play online or offline.
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Offline Play: You can continue playing in offline modes without an active EA Play subscription or even an internet connection, provided you have a save file and a purchased copy of the game.
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Online Play: Playing Madden 20 online requires a few things. First, you will need the game, whether downloaded or a hard copy. Second, you’ll need a membership for the platform on which you are playing, such as a PlayStation Plus subscription on a PlayStation 4. Finally, you will need an EA account.
Madden 20: Is it Still Worth Playing?
Even though it’s been superseded by newer entries in the Madden NFL franchise, Madden 20 still offers a fun and engaging football experience. It’s a good option if:
- You’re a casual player who isn’t concerned with having the most up-to-date rosters.
- You enjoy the core gameplay of Madden without the complexities or changes introduced in later versions.
- You want to revisit a specific year in NFL history.
FAQs: Continuing Your Madden 20 Journey
1. If I originally played Madden 20 through EA Access, do I have to buy the game now to keep playing?
Yes, if you want to keep playing after it was removed from EA Play and you don’t already own a purchased copy, you need to buy the game outright.
2. Can I still download Madden 20 if I bought it digitally but previously accessed it through EA Access?
Yes, as long as you purchased Madden 20 digitally, you can still download it from your platform’s online store (PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, or Origin/EA App on PC).
3. Do I need an EA account to play Madden 20 offline?
No, you don’t need an EA account to play Madden 20 offline. However, you’ll need one if you want to access any online features.
4. Is it possible to transfer my Madden 20 progress from EA Access to a purchased copy?
Yes, as long as you use the same EA account and platform. Your progress is typically tied to your account, so it should transfer automatically. However, local files are stored on your device.
5. Are the Madden 20 servers still online?
This is a tricky question. EA often retires servers for older Madden titles. To find the most current info, check the EA website.
6. Can I play Madden 20 on PS5 or Xbox Series X/S?
Yes, you can play Madden 20 on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S via backwards compatibility, provided you own a PS4 or Xbox One copy of the game. You can also play using the respective platforms of those consoles.
7. Do I need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play Madden 20 offline?
No, PlayStation Plus and Xbox Live Gold are only required for online multiplayer. You don’t need them to play Madden 20 offline.
8. Where can I buy a physical copy of Madden 20 for PS4 or Xbox One?
You can usually find physical copies of Madden 20 at retailers like Amazon, GameStop, and other stores that sell used games.
9. If I buy a used copy of Madden 20, will I have access to all the features?
Yes, a used copy of Madden 20 will give you access to all the base game features, including offline modes and, if the servers are still active, online modes.
10. Can I use mods in Madden 20 on PC?
Yes, Madden 20 on PC supports mods. However, proceed with caution and only download mods from reputable sources.
11. If I’m having trouble running Madden 20 on PC, what are some common troubleshooting steps?
Common troubleshooting steps include:
- Updating your graphics drivers.
- Verifying the game files through the EA App.
- Adjusting the game’s graphics settings.
- Ensuring your PC meets the minimum system requirements.
12. Does EA Play Pro give me access to all Madden NFL games?
No, EA Play Pro provides access to a selection of Madden NFL games and other titles in EA’s library. The selection varies over time, and specific titles may be removed or added. Always check the current EA Play Pro library for the most up-to-date information.
13. Is it cheaper to buy Madden 20 outright or subscribe to EA Play for a limited time?
It depends on how long you plan to play. If you only want to play for a short period, EA Play might be more cost-effective. However, if you plan to play Madden 20 long-term, buying it outright is usually the better option.
14. Does playing Madden 20 contribute to learning?
Games, including sports games like Madden, can offer surprising learning opportunities! They can enhance strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. To explore the educational potential of games further, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
15. What are some good alternatives to Madden 20 if I want a more up-to-date football game?
The most obvious alternatives are newer Madden NFL titles, such as Madden NFL 24. If you’re looking for something different, you might also consider indie football games or classic titles from other developers.
Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has answered your questions about playing Madden 20 without EA Access. Enjoy the game!