That collective groan/cheer you just heard was the world's football-game fans: Electronic Arts has extend their exclusive license to the NFL until 2013. A mixed blessing, to be sure. While Madden is the best football game ever, a little competition from another franchise would be a welcome change.

EA, on the other hand, very, very happy. EA has been the exclusive NFL game provider since 2004, and their license allows them all aspects of the "interactive experience, including console and handheld games as well as console-based online features." The agreements also provide EA access to both NFL Films and the NFL Network. Financial terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

"This is all about bringing authenticity and realism to NFL videogames," said Eric Grubman, President of NFL Ventures. "EA SPORTS continually works to maintain the cutting edge for NFL products across a variety of gaming platforms. We like the fact that they never rest."

“This is great news and it means we can continue to produce the best interactive experience possible. It also allows NFL PLAYERS, the NFL and EA to continue to build our brands,” said Gene Upshaw, Chairman of NFL PLAYERS and Executive Director of the National Football League Players Association. “We offer a very unique experience. “