EA Announces Madden NFL 09 Ship Date and Collector’s Edition

Another year, another number.

So the EA ritual goes with the announcement of their latest in the line of Madden NFL games, which they announced today would be available in stores on August 12th (their announcement first says ship date, then they say it’ll be available. Probably a good idea to call ahead before you make the trip).

To celebrate 20 years and 70 million copies sold of the Madden franchise, EA is offering a special Collector’s Edition for $89.99, which will include the package-exclusive NFL Head Coach ’09, plus other extra features. However, this edition will only be available for the Xbox 360 and PS3, save for the chance Wii football fans raise enough ruckus to make them reconsider.

“The Madden NFL franchise has a rich history, and we’re proud to be celebrating it with this definitive video game package,” says Peter Moore, president of EA SPORTS. “Featuring two deep and innovative new standalone games, as well as a host of exclusive bonus content, the Madden NFL 09 20th Anniversary Collector’s Edition is the ultimate interactive offering for both long-time Madden NFL fans and anyone who enjoys football on Sundays. I can’t think of a better way to get your NFL fix than to enjoy everything that’s unique about both Madden NFL 09 and NFL Head Coach 09, and then connecting and sharing content from both.”

“Both Madden NFL 09 and NFL Head Coach 09 are deep and unique gaming experiences that will truly immerse sports fans of all ages, skill levels and playing styles,” says Chris Erb, EA SPORTS director of marketing. “With the Madden NFL 09 20th Anniversary Collector’s Edition, we’re bringing two great NFL games together to create the definitive football offering.”