How important is online play for the Xbox?

[Crucial Mike]

I haven't played a lot of football games in the past but am considering picking one up this year. My question is whether the ownership mode, etc..would be enough for a great experience on the xbox. In everyone's opinion, how great in online play? For those that have played online last year (Madden or 2k3)..how great is it? Personally, I wouldn't buy a basketball game unless I could play it online. How is it with football games? Essential?

[NYJets]

Last year online play in 2K3 was great, and online play in NCAA is maybe even better. Never played Madden online so I can't say for sure, but I'd assume it's pretty good. So it really just comes down to if online play is something that interests you.

[jubjub]

I love XBL and can't stand ps2 online. I love having everything in a nice package and being able to just jump into games with friends. If you on xbox and want online play then madden is not for you though. Owner mode is pretty cool though, but I could see it getting boring.

[Erv]

it's improved a lot with voice chat and pretty good cheat filters and tournaments along with a buddy lists/roster updates. If you have a choice, get the PS2 version since the custom soundtrack only covers the menu screens, and the soundtrack kicks good *** anyways.

[seanmac]

It's pretty essential to me. I started off in August thinking that Madden and 2K3 were of comparable quality, but as soon as November rolled around and XBL was up, my gaming went to 95% 2K3 5% Madden and stayed that way straight through the summer until NCAA 2004 came out. Owner's mode sounds like it is very thorough and could be fun, but it's hard to believe that I would choose to spend my limited gaming time deciding hot dog prices instead of going online and looking for some live competition, which is why I will end up playing a lot more ESPN this year, even though I'm a fan of both games.

[Crucial Mike]

Yeah the only reason I'm thinking that online play wouldn't be essential for me is because I really am a beginner when it comes to football games. In basketball, I need the highest type of competition, so online play is a must. But if I'm basically learning everything (best plays to use, etc..) then maybe online play would be too over my head? Is it a game where you need a lot of experience? I mean guys have been playing Madden/Espn for years, where I would just be a pure rookie.