As a reporter for Media Talk Africa, I’ve been tasked with telling the story of Ingle Martin, a University of Florida quarterback who flamed out before transferring to Furman University, where he set records. But for many, Martin is a legendary figure, not for his real-life achievements, but for his virtual avatar in EA Sports’ NCAA Football.

The game, which was once the gold standard of sports video games, disappeared for a decade due to legal issues surrounding the use of players’ likenesses without compensation. But with the NCAA’s new rules allowing players to be compensated for their name, image, and likeness (NIL), EA Sports has announced the release of College Football ’25, a new iteration of the game that promises to bring back the magic of the original.

For fans of the game, the wait has been agonizing. Many have taken to social media to express their excitement and nostalgia for the game, sharing stories of their favorite memories playing NCAA Football and their anticipation for the new game.

As Rodger Sherman, a sportswriter, told Mashable, “It’s not a reskinned version of Madden. The folks who loved the NCAA franchise loved it for its expansiveness inside the game, specifically in Dynasty Mode, where you’d control every aspect of a university’s football program.”

The game’s new iteration promises to deliver on this promise, with a focus on authenticity and a return to the classic gameplay that fans loved. The team behind the game has seemingly understood that the key to success lies in recreating the sense of control and creativity that players felt when they first played NCAA Football.

For those who grew up playing the game, the return of College Football ’25 is a chance to relive fond memories and experience the thrill of building a dynasty from scratch. As Kevin Clark, an ESPN personality, put it, “It’s not just a game, it’s a way to reconnect with your alma mater, your school, and your memories.”

The game’s release has generated a level of excitement that’s rare in the world of sports gaming. Fans are sharing their plans for their first play, from running a classic triple option to taking a knee to honor the years without the game.

As the release date approaches, it’s clear that College Football ’25 has the potential to be a cultural phenomenon, a game that will bring back memories and create new ones for fans of all ages. And for those who loved NCAA Football, it’s a chance to relive the magic and experience the thrill of building a dynasty once again.