I think if the license was opened up to other competitors the closest we'd see a game from 2K is probably next year. I wouldn't want them to rush and try to drop a game this year. Their NBA 2k series is great and some of the best detailed sports games you could play. I'm an offline play person only but I see the biggest concern with 2k is their servers.
After one season of playing a franchise in Madden, I think I've seen every animation and heard every piece of commentary there is to offer. That's when it gets repetitive.
It does seem odd that EA isn't boasting about the exclusive license like they've done in the past. With the license its not just the NFL that they have the deal with its the NFLPA also. Over the years Madden sales have declined because gamers are getting tired of the same ol same ol. That's why they put the money up for that exclusivity. They figure no competition means we control the market and take snail steps in innovation.
My problem with EA was how they included a new feature then just take it away instead of building on it. I for one liked the QB vision cone, The Tony Bruno Show, position battles, etc.
