This Friday marks the release of gaming’s gridiron giant, Madden NFL 10. If your passions lie within the intersection of the “video games” and “football watching” Venn diagram, then you already know that that a new Madden offering is can’t-miss free time fodder.

As you would expect, this year’s game builds on Madden’s previous success and add in some new features to boot. Having spent some time with the game, it’s clear that some of those added features have made for a more realistic experience, as the on-field action closely mimics watching (err… playing) an actual NFL game.

Hit the jump for details on the added features, as well as a screenshot comparison to last year’s model.

• Pro-Tak Animation System - Defenders pile-up realistically to stop the ballcarrier’s progress and bring him down utilizing gang tackles of up to 9 players.
• “Fight for the Fumble” Pile-Ups - A loose ball underneath the pile becomes something of a mini-game, requiring rapid button presses to battle for possession of the ball.
• QB Pressure Alert - In a simple, but significant, improvement, controllers rumble as your QB comes under pressure in the pocket.
• Signature Animations - Nearly every QB and kicker has a custom stance and movement animation.
• Improved Injury System - After a diagnosis is offered, you have the ability to bench or continue to play the injured man, albeit at a heightened risk of reinjury.
• Accelerated Clock - An improvement to significantly speed the overall length of games, you can set the clock to run down to a preset point before your play.
• Animation Makeover - Over 1,000 animations have been reworked or replaced.
• Online Co-op - Added, FTW!

These are just a few of the massive list of improvements made by EA Sports for Madden NFL 10. There’s no reason not to give this year’s iteration your Sunday best. Feel free to hit up a preorder or take your changes in line at your favorite brick and mortar retailer, come midnight later this week.

Cost: $55 (Xbox 360 or PS3)