I'm just baffled that people still buy yearly sports games.

Wow... I hate it when people claim superiority over each other, and its not different when it comes down to games.

People buy whatever they like... Im certain that everyone would have a reason to crap over one of OPs favorite series, yet we don't. People buy what they want, when they want it (or can afford it).

maybe they do, maybe they don't.

It's unclear how big the fanbase really is. Certainly bigger than the sales of one of these games.

I'm fairly certain they do, at least most of them.

Your entire issue rests on the idea that Madden 15 is the same game on all 4 consoles, just prettier graphics next gen. That isn't true. Madden 15 next gen has retooled AI, the new (shitty) "enhanced" (diminished) play calling system, CoachGlass, defensive line mechanics, the new kicking mechanics, the new camera options, among other things. So last gen owners are most certainly not getting the exact same game.

The biggest thing is the AI. It is way different in next gen.