For close to twenty years, EA has been able to count on the John Madden series to sell through the roof in spite of the lack of any significant additions or changes to the gameplay. Sure we've gotten the Truck Stick and the QB Vision, but ultimately, Madden '08 played a lot like Madden '98. Granted, football itself hasn't changed much in that span, but the fact remains: Madden football isn't a franchise known for innovation.

It is in keeping with that underwhelming system of game upgrades that I inform you of Madden '09's first announced feature (brought to you by the Gamestop blog): player controlled end-zone celebrations.

That's right gang, now you don't have to hope your touchdown will be followed by one of the usual four animated dances, you get to actually move the player to a "hot zone" and then push a button to see a dance from up to 10! Woo-hoo!

Players who in the real world tend to celebrate more (Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, Steve Smith, et al) will have more celebrations in their "vocabulary". No word as to whether or not an unnecessary celebration will bring with it a 15-yard penalty (as it would in the real world).

Related Articles:

Rumor - John Madden to be Left out of Madden '09

NCAA Football 09 Screens Look Woo!

EA Extends NFL Deal To 2012 Season