IGN Presents the History of Madden

Electronic Arts' Madden series is a dynasty greater than any in professional sports. In the two decades since its inception, the Madden series has helped build and destroy console empires. It outlasted the rise and fall of SEGA's hardware in America, and contributed to both. It was key in boosting EA from a small independent developer to an international publishing giant. Simply put, the Madden series is the most powerful franchise on the continent.

The name Madden has now come to mean so much more than just a Hall of Fame coach and commentator. It's practically synonymous with video game football. Brands like this aren't simply bought and licensed; they're built and fiercely defended. As the Madden series turns 20, IGN takes a look back at how EA took on all comers to create the highest grossing series North America has ever seen.