EA Sports announced today that Madden Ultimate Team is now available for download as a free update for Madden NFL 10 on both the PS3 and Xbox 360. EA is promoting Madden Ultimate Team as a new strategic game mode that allows players to create their NFL dream team by collecting virtual cards of NFL superstars and legends, head coaches, and stadiums.

Some of the features touted in the free add-on:

- Build Your Ultimate Team — With complete customization, take control over every aspect of your team. Set your starting offense, defense, special teams and then take your team to the field by playing games in Madden NFL 10. Determine who will coach your ultimate team, and then tailor additional aspects like uniforms and home stadium.

- Nine Card Types — Collect bronze, silver and gold cards to form your ultimate team. Select from player, coach, playbook, injury, stadium, uniform, and contract card types. Go for the best with legendary player cards, as well as limited edition variants.

- Develop Team Chemistry — Get an on-field chemistry boost, by selecting players from the same pro or collegiate team. Choose playbooks, stadiums and coaches from the same team to get an added boost, or allow Madden Ultimate Team to dynamically update as the lineup changes.

- Acquire New Cards — Build your team in a variety of ways. Play games and earn coins to acquire new card packs, buy or sell cards with millions of Madden NFL fans at the auction block, or check weekly deals to purchase limited edition cards. Acquire additional card packs by using Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace or purchase them from the PlayStation Network.

- The Hub — The home base for building your Madden Ultimate Team, The Hub provides easy access to your card collection. Make team changes or acquire new cards via the auction block or in-game store. Easily view total coins accumulated, team chemistry, team skill level, team record and total card value.

- Online Leaderboards — Keep track of how your team ranks versus friends. Madden Ultimate Team online leaderboards will track your overall record, including head-to-head, versus the computer, and more.

In order to obtain Madden Ultimate Team, you'll only need to insert your Madden NFL 10 game disc and download the title from the main menu in Madden NFL 10 and restart the game. Madden Ultimate Team can then be accessed directly from the main menu.

To learn more about how to play Madden Ultimate Team, see the below tutorial: