Be a GM mode:

Be a GM in NHL 10 Walk Through | EA SPORTS (http://beta.easports.com/media/play/feature-video/BeaGmWalkthrough)

Very cool!

Screenies: IGN: NHL 10 Screenshots, Wallpapers and Pics (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/143/14347690/imgs_1.html)

NHL 10, five things to know: 'NHL 10': Five Things to Know - Video Games - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/videogames/news/story?id=4164458)

NHL 10 game play refinements: http://insideblog.easports.com/archive/2009/07/09/nhl-10-more-gameplay-refinements.aspx

That game looks great!

I am completely stoked about this game. 09 was great and they really seem to be focusing on the areas that it was lacking in (physical play, slowing the gameplay down and presentation)

The idea that you actually NEED some toughness on the ice otherwise the other team can start to go after your skill players is absolutely freaking awesome. And that physical play and forechecking actually matters to the momentum of the game...

It's EA so anything could happen, but I'm definitely counting down the days to this release.

EDIT - I just saw this in the article posted, which is also complete freaking awesomeness. Playing as a forward in 09 this was the one thing which pissed me off the most (the number of cross checking penalties I got which this will eliminate...)

With better goalies, the play in the slot was a huge area of emphasis for us. I wanted the ability to one-time loose pucks, especially on rebounds without throwing a check

Yes.. I've already paid for this one in full.. can't wait until September!!!

I've watched videos and the board play flows seamlessly when it happens.. everything really looks great.

Be a GM mode looks great too.. cheating (signing players, then trading them, etc.. actually affects your GM rating - making it worse.. very cool..)

I always give 2k a chance, but EA just keeps making their hockey series better and better each year.

I'm torn on whether to get this or FIFA. I'm not huge fans of either sport but do enjoy playing them as video games. Don't really have the time to engulf myself into both games so going to focus on one. Was leaning toward FIFA but may go with NHL after this hype. I can then get the World Cup game next year if it has full qualifying and all the FIFA nations.

NHL 09 was simply the best hockey video game I've ever played. NHL 10 is a must buy on day one for me.

I haven't bought a EA hockey game in about a decade, but I think that will be changing this year.

I can't believe people still even consider EA sports games. I read a [/URL][URL="hxxp://www.michellemalikin"]Bill Harris article (http://www.michellemalkin.com) that mentioned no less than 382 critical errors he encountered with the game. Just go to the operationsports forums to see the rapidly evolving disaster this game is becoming.

Beat him to the punch.

Beat him to the punch.

Have you played NHL 09? It really is a great game. EA had some terrible, terrible years but lately NHL and FIFA (only two I've played) have been very good.

Have you played NHL 09? It really is a great game. EA had some terrible, terrible years but lately NHL and FIFA (only two I've played) have been very good.

Oh yeah, I've played NHL 09, as well as most of the other EA Sports lineup. I was just playing the part of the minstrel in this situation. :)

Oh yeah, I've played NHL 09, as well as most of the other EA Sports lineup. I was just playing the part of the minstrel in this situation. :)

Funny thing is I refused to play EA games for several years after being burned by them. When I finally played NHL 08 and FIFA 08 I was stunned.

NHL09 was the most played game in 09 for me. I played as defenseman in over 900 games in the EASHL (the Be a Pro Online league) in several division 1 teams and it was a blast.

Can't wait for NHL10!

This will be the first year I've bought an NHL game since the late 90s! :)

Please, let the backup goalies automatically sub in on certain days so that we don't have to do it manually. Also, please let goalies get injured DURING gameplay and not just while simming.

Have you played NHL 09? It really is a great game. EA had some terrible, terrible years but lately NHL and FIFA (only two I've played) have been very good.

Agreed. I don't know what cartman is talking about. NHL 09 was a very good game and there's nothing to indicate that NHL 10 will be any different. Same with FIFA.

Oh yeah, I've played NHL 09, as well as most of the other EA Sports lineup. I was just playing the part of the minstrel in this situation. :)

Well played, even if it seems I was the only one who got the joke.

I think cartman was being a knucklehead.. ;)

The NHL series (haven't played FIFA) has been their best the past few years.. they even support their product well with patches that actually fix things. :)

The NHL series (haven't played FIFA) has been their best the past few years.. they even support their product well with patches that actually fix things. :)

I thought NHL 08 and NHL 2K8 were on par with each other, but I think NHL 09 was clearly the better game last year. FIFA series is also much better, especially last year. You should give it a try if you can find it in a bargain bin. It's well worth it.

I thought NHL 08 and NHL 2K8 were on par with each other, but I think NHL 09 was clearly the better game last year. FIFA series is also much better, especially last year. You should give it a try if you can find it in a bargain bin. It's well worth it.

I didn't like 2k8's control scheme.. but MANY did. I still think the skill stick is the best controller configuration in any console game.

I might try FIFA if I can find it cheap.. you are not the first that told me it was a good game.

On the NHL 09 Demo, I used NHL 95 controller settings :)

With competition, EA can be pushed to make some amazing games. I'd love to see where Madden would be at with competition in the market.

NHL producer interview: NHL 10 Video Game, Sean Ramjagsingh Interview HD | Game Trailers & Videos | GameTrailers.com (http://www.gametrailers.com/video/sean-ramjagsignh-nhl-10/52990?type=wmv)

More: NHL 10: Battle for the Cup, Playoff Mode, and More - GameSpot Sports Beat - Gaming News and Videos For Sports Video Games - Football Video Games - Baseball Video Games (http://www.gamespot.com/sports/blogs/sports-blog/909097139/26977183/nhl-10-battle-for-the-cup-playoff-mode-and-more.html)

NHL producer interview: NHL 10 Video Game, Sean Ramjagsingh Interview HD | Game Trailers & Videos | GameTrailers.com (http://www.gametrailers.com/video/sean-ramjagsignh-nhl-10/52990?type=wmv)

They decide to show off the new fighting minigame by showing Petr Sykora in a fight against Braydon Coburn? Talk about stupid. Sykora never fights. Why do they insist on allowing him to fight in these games much less allow footage of him fighting to be included in promotional video? Real fans know he never fights and just laugh when he squares off with Braydon Coburn.

The other thing that annoys me is that the developers still haven't removed that stupid maniacal fan laugh from the game. Anyone that has played many, many hours in the game knows the laugh I'm talking about; you can hear it briefly during the first gameplay footage in this trailer.

These may be little things but they annoy me. I loved NHL 09 but come on, how long does it take for someone to sit down and fix these things? Any fan of the series could point these out to the developers in about five minutes of gameplay.

Yeah, that was an annoying issue in 09, that the fights didn't seem to match up so well. Often times I'd try and go after the enforcer/physical player on the other team and it would randomly give me a non-fighter (usually a defenseman)

I assume the reason they picked Sykora in the video is "look, this is what happens when you don't have a tough guy on the ice". If done well, I quite like the idea of that. But it certainly doesn't suggest that this new system is going to be particularly realistic...

I'd love them to implement challenges and you can turn them down like some of the older hockey games had (does 2k Sports still have this) and that the other team would only fight you when it made sense (after a big hit or a scrum) rather than just being able to hit the Y button and get a fight in almost any situation.

The storyline mode is kind of cool. Wonder how deep it will be.

So you think you're Hardcore? | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/blogs/nhl/inthecrease/post/slug/so-you-think-youre-hardcore)

They've added a Hardcore mode this year, a game style in which the assists (passing, checking) are removed.

Here's what I think is the best part:

When playing in Hardcore Mode, the first thing you’re going to notice is that the gameplay is slightly slower but that there is greater differentiation between the high and low end players. All the attributes are that much more important in this mode as player’s strengths and weaknesses are really accentuated. If you try deking back and forth on a breakaway with a 4th liner, there’s a good chance that the puck is going to roll off his stick. There’s a reason those guys shoot the puck every chance they get as opposed to trying to make a cute play or score a pretty goal. By the same token, if you try doing loose puck dekes or tight turns with a less skilled player, don’t be surprised if you lose control of the puck. More than ever you have to play real hockey, recognize who you have on the ice and play to the strengths and weaknesses of the players. This is why it was so important for us to nail the dump and chase as an effective style of play in this year’s game. When you have that 3rd or 4th line on the ice, keep it simple just like the real players do.

The frustrating part about last year's game is that the differentiation between the players was quite small, and really only noticeable when it came to scoring, hitting and speed. However, you could take a 4th liner and handle the puck as if he was a skilled player. The 2nd video on here shows that has changed, as more than a deke or two (or even a sharp turn) will cause your unskilled player to lose the puck.

So you think you're Hardcore? | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/blogs/nhl/inthecrease/post/slug/so-you-think-youre-hardcore)

They've added a Hardcore mode this year, a game style in which the assists (passing, checking) are removed.

Here's what I think is the best part:



The frustrating part about last year's game is that the differentiation between the players was quite small, and really only noticeable when it came to scoring, hitting and speed. However, you could take a 4th liner and handle the puck as if he was a skilled player. The 2nd video on here shows that has changed, as more than a deke or two (or even a sharp turn) will cause your unskilled player to lose the puck.

that's hugely necessary

When's this game coming out?

When's this game coming out?

Sept 15.

I'm excited.

Sept 15.

I'm excited.

Ah, relatively soon then. Good deal. Thanks.

NHL09 is the game i still play almost daily after a year of it's release. I have not enjoyed a game as much for years.

Can't wait for NHL10, to the point that i have not even purchased Madden for first time in years, as i know i will only play NHL10 for months in the EASHL with my created player as i did in 09.

What was your player's name?

If they would remake the NHL94 version with today's players I'd be content and happy... I miss my old Genesis version that game was awesome.

If they would remake the NHL94 version with today's players I'd be content and happy... I miss my old Genesis version that game was awesome.

Ask and ye shall receive (http://www.nhl94.com/)

Well, kind of ;)

So you think you're Hardcore? | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/blogs/nhl/inthecrease/post/slug/so-you-think-youre-hardcore)

They've added a Hardcore mode this year, a game style in which the assists (passing, checking) are removed.

Here's what I think is the best part:



The frustrating part about last year's game is that the differentiation between the players was quite small, and really only noticeable when it came to scoring, hitting and speed. However, you could take a 4th liner and handle the puck as if he was a skilled player. The 2nd video on here shows that has changed, as more than a deke or two (or even a sharp turn) will cause your unskilled player to lose the puck.

This should be the default setting... I don't understand why it's a separate mode.

This should be the default setting... I don't understand why it's a separate mode.

Agreed. Simulation/Hardcore shoudl be the default with an alternative 'arcade' mode.

This should be the default setting... I don't understand why it's a separate mode.

I'll disagree here, and I think its because most consumers like the unrealistic back-and-forth of how most games are played currently, where there are tons of beautiful scoring chances. Also, most players are going to want the assist from the CPU to help their checking and passing.

Having said that, I can't stand playing that way. I love having to dump-and-chase and score the 'ugly' goals.

One thing I really hope is that the passing rating plays a large role, so that a defensive D-man with a low pass rating will struggle to make a good first pass out of the zone.

EDIT: Another thing I forgot is that I think it will be a real challenge to play this way and it will take some time to learn how to pass and check w/o the assists on. Maybe they don't want to scare off the casual gamers by making the most difficult mode the default?

Hardcore mode sounds great, except this is EA and so like every other good idea they have they'll go way too far with it.

I look forward to players like Ovechkin scoring 15 goals a game and fourth line players being unable to control the puck at all.

Hardcore mode sounds great, except this is EA and so like every other good idea they have they'll go way too far with it.

I look forward to players like Ovechkin scoring 15 goals a game and fourth line players being unable to control the puck at all.

Are you suggesting that Hardcore mode will make taking control of the Leafs the most frustrating video game hockey experience of all time? ;)

Is there really any benefit to pre-ordering or reserving this game? I haven't played the game online ever (just got my PS3 and WiFi signal is too weak and played 09 at a buddy's place and he doesn't have WiFi). Is the pre-order code for an online upgrade to your player worth it? Any other benefit to players who primarily play offline?

Count me among those looking forward to this game, and singing the praises of NHL 09. That game flows great....personally, I find it oddly refreshing to play a sports game with no turbo/sprint button. I'll also echo the love for FIFA 09 as well...I think that might be one of the most well-produced games ever, in terms of content, interface, and graphics (I love that you can shoot around during the games' loading).

Also, FIFA 09 has 1000% more randomly generated black dudes with neon green eyes, blond mullets, and Irish names, than any other game on the market, so it's got that going for it.

I'll disagree here, and I think its because most consumers like the unrealistic back-and-forth of how most games are played currently, where there are tons of beautiful scoring chances. Also, most players are going to want the assist from the CPU to help their checking and passing.

Having said that, I can't stand playing that way. I love having to dump-and-chase and score the 'ugly' goals.

One thing I really hope is that the passing rating plays a large role, so that a defensive D-man with a low pass rating will struggle to make a good first pass out of the zone.

EDIT: Another thing I forgot is that I think it will be a real challenge to play this way and it will take some time to learn how to pass and check w/o the assists on. Maybe they don't want to scare off the casual gamers by making the most difficult mode the default?

You're right... most gamers will just want to pick it up and play.. heck, I like that way most of the time and might have an issue with passing on the hardcore level if it's too hard.

Is there really any benefit to pre-ordering or reserving this game? I haven't played the game online ever (just got my PS3 and WiFi signal is too weak and played 09 at a buddy's place and he doesn't have WiFi). Is the pre-order code for an online upgrade to your player worth it? Any other benefit to players who primarily play offline?

Nope. I just like to guarantee the game is waiting for me on release day.

I'm still holding out for Black Ice Hockey.

Demo is out for Xbox gold members (will be a week later for silver), hope it will too for PS3 today, but i'm afraid it's an exclusive deal if only gold members can get it and no silver.

Demo is out for Xbox gold members (will be a week later for silver), hope it will too for PS3 today, but i'm afraid it's an exclusive deal if only gold members can get it and no silver.

I'm looking forward to downloading it when I get home from work. I'm glad they're allowing you to set the game style (hardcore!) and skill level in the demo, that way I can get used to the hardcore style by the time the game comes out.

Demo is out for Xbox gold members (will be a week later for silver), hope it will too for PS3 today, but i'm afraid it's an exclusive deal if only gold members can get it and no silver.

Is the demo the "create your player and play him in the 3rd period of game 7?" and is it the same for everyone or is it like Madden where "premium" users get one demo and everyone else gets a watered down version?

Is the demo the "create your player and play him in the 3rd period of game 7?" and is it the same for everyone or is it like Madden where "premium" users get one demo and everyone else gets a watered down version?

I believe there is only 1 demo.

You get two options:

1) Play the 3rd period of game 7. The first time you play, it starts as in real life where Crosby gets injured and if you are the Pens, you have to decide to keep him in or sit him. The next time (and future plays), the sim engine simulates the first two periods of the game, and you jump in for the 3rd.

2) Be a Pro, where you create a player who is a mid 1st round prospect, and play in the new prospects game for the 3rd period. After the game, you get to see where you were drafted (i.e. a good performance in the 3rd can get you drafted 1st overall)

I believe there is only 1 demo.

You get two options:

1) Play the 3rd period of game 7. The first time you play, it starts as in real life where Crosby gets injured and if you are the Pens, you have to decide to keep him in or sit him. The next time (and future plays), the sim engine simulates the first two periods of the game, and you jump in for the 3rd.

2) Be a Pro, where you create a player who is a mid 1st round prospect, and play in the new prospects game for the 3rd period. After the game, you get to see where you were drafted (i.e. a good performance in the 3rd can get you drafted 1st overall)

Ah, thanks for the clarification. I don't understand why the NHL demos are only limited to one period. I remember playing the NHL 98 demo game over and over and over on an old PC.

I feel bad for my copies of Madden and NCAA.. this game is going to be a classic.. and get most of my free playing time.

Even on pro default the game has grown leaps and bounds imho.. I loved 2k's board play, but EA nailed it and it flows so nicely. Game is definitely "organic" and the atmosphere is really intense. Camera seems a bit closer to the ice and I love that.

Goalies have a bunch of new animations and I actually like the fighting.

This game can't come soon enough!!!

The Detroit crowd waving their towels.. great stuff!

OK, I think I've finally met my match with the NHL series, as I went with Superstar/Hardcore in the demo, and I finally felt a real challenge, even while my CPU teammates were playing better than they ever have in this series.

The best part of the game is the PUCK. I know that sounds funny, but it is the most realistic it has ever been. When players block the puck, it doesn't automatically go to the same places like it did last year. It deflects anywhere, sometimes closer to the goal, sometimes in the corner, sometimes out of the zone.

As the Pens, I learned that its not worth it to pressure Lidstrom and Rafalski with the puck, but when Lilja has the puck, you notice a BIG difference. Lilja is slower and struggles handling the puck. One time, I pressed him in their own zone, so he tried to turn away and he lost the puck into the corner. I pinned him against the boards and a teammate picked up the puck and we had a good scoring chance. Something that's very realistic, but I've never seen in a hockey game before.

Another first was when I was Detroit and Matt Cooke ended up with a breakaway, and I got called for a penalty, so a penalty shot for Cooke, who's not the most skilled player. He goes in for the penalty shot, makes a deke, then just COMPLETELY loses the puck in the corner w/o taking a shot! With these unskilled players, you really do need to keep it simple, stupid.

My struggle is with the passing, especially back to the point. I either pass it right to the middle and the other team gets it, or I pass it out of the zone. Also passing through center ice is quite difficult as well, but I think that's just VERY realistic, even though the CPU does a much better job of it (hopefully that's something a slider can fix).

Overall, it is difficult to learn and get used to, but I already like it better than 09. I've never been happier to have such a sloppy (realistic) game of hockey.

I'm with you Turner.. the puck physics are perfect.

PS3 demo comes out Thursday for those that were wondering.

Question from a hockey newb. I've always thought a good defense philosophy was to prevent a clear shot at the net (ie - standing between the puck and the goalie at a reasonable distance) but I've let up a couple goals using this philosophy because I've blocked the goalies vision. Is my philosophy flawed or are these just a consequence?

I've never got a good grasp on hockey strategy, probably since I've only ever play via video games.

Good strategy but in NHL09 or 10, you need to hit the block button to lay down and either stop it or at least to not screen your goalie. If you just stand there in front of your goalie, you will screen him.

Usually you better position yourself in front of the goalie but at the side, letting him to see what is going on while you cover more the sides of the net and hitting any forward that tries to get in there to screen the goalie or to score from a deflection or rebound.

I thought the NHL 10 demo was due out on the PSN yesterday. What happened?

I thought the NHL 10 demo was due out on the PSN yesterday. What happened?

I believe the new PSN weekly update is late this week. It appears they haven't updated the store yet.

It is in the Euro store since yesterday, you can create an account and download it easily.

I loved nhl09, but nhl10 is almost perfect. It's slower & more dirty board gameplay make it way more NHL realistic, no more easy tape to tape passes, no more dangling all the opposite team, no more arcade hits, etc. you need to work hard for the puck, be physical and play good position.

I can't wait for this game to come out!

I can't wait for this game to come out!

Me either!

Played the demo a lot tonight, I'm hooked! I think Madden is going to get shelved come September 15.

Played the demo a few times today and wow. This game is really amazing. I'm not a huge hockey fan but this is a game I don't think I can pass up. EA really knows how to build a game when they are pushed.

Anyone know of any good strategy websites? And a good website for a season preview? I haven't ever played hockey, I can't skate :) So I'm not certain of all the strategies that can be utilized. And I haven't paid much attention to the NHL for about 10 years so I've lost touch with who is who.

Heading out to Gamestop to pick up my copy...

Heading out to Gamestop to pick up my copy...

I should have mine already but it was stopped in the customs and won't have it until tomorrow :/

I intend to buy the game tonight. I'm most excited about the "hardcore" mode and the improved board play. The only disappointing impression I've read is that it's still a pain in the ass to import music into the game because it is a slllloooooowww process. If that's the worst thing about the game, though, I'll definitely enjoy it!

I intend to buy the game tonight. I'm most excited about the "hardcore" mode and the improved board play. The only disappointing impression I've read is that it's still a pain in the ass to import music into the game because it is a slllloooooowww process. If that's the worst thing about the game, though, I'll definitely enjoy it!

Pumpy, in the mean time, to tide you over, I will put all the songs on this website here onto a CD and you can listen to them while you play:

Detroit Radio Flashbacks: Sports (http://detroitradioflashbacks.net/sports.html)

"We Built This City On Red Wing Goals" is as good as it sounds.

Pumpy, in the mean time, to tide you over, I will put all the songs on this website here onto a CD and you can listen to them while you play:

Detroit Radio Flashbacks: Sports (http://detroitradioflashbacks.net/sports.html)

"We Built This City On Red Wing Goals" is as good as it sounds.
How about I just light myself on fire right now?

I'll be picking this up on my way home from work tonight.

Hey Brad!

Wow.. only one game, but I am STOKED! I saw so many new things in just one game.

Board play flows so well, the whole game just feels like a hockey game throughout. New goalie animations look great, player AI is superb and makes great decisions. Getting rebound goals are a thing of beauty.

So far everything is great...

Be sure to download the roster update and new tuner version 1.1.

I'll be picking this up on my way home from work tonight.

Hey Brad!

I think after a while, this would be enough to make me switch to a new username.

I think after a while, this would be enough to make me switch to a new username.

hey kodos

This game is simply amazing. I am loving the online play. So far it's very smooth. The game itself just plays very well. It feels like real hockey.

OS review was mostly positive but it mentioned that the CPU opponents play much smarter than the AI of teammates. Also, it said that the CPU passes too often and too accurate even with slider adjustments. Howewver, the reviewer said this was pre tuning release. Anyone else seeing this?

As an aside, the tuning that doesn't require microsodt approval sounds brilliant. I hope this concept spreads to other games.

OS review was mostly positive but it mentioned that the CPU opponents play much smarter than the AI of teammates. Also, it said that the CPU passes too often and too accurate even with slider adjustments. Howewver, the reviewer said this was pre tuning release. Anyone else seeing this?

Did they mention whether that was in hardcore mode or not?

OS review was mostly positive but it mentioned that the CPU opponents play much smarter than the AI of teammates. Also, it said that the CPU passes too often and too accurate even with slider adjustments. Howewver, the reviewer said this was pre tuning release. Anyone else seeing this?

As an aside, the tuning that doesn't require microsodt approval sounds brilliant. I hope this concept spreads to other games.

I would disagree, my CPU teammates seem to always be where I want them to be.

I think the CPU sets up for better shots, which is why I'm seeing realistic shot totals so far - FINALLY!

All I care about: Are they still callimg Matt Stajan "Stay-an"?

Sorry guys, game is broken.

Went to pick this up at lunch and Futureshop had the game on display. Picked up the controller to play and about 6 minutes in was able to score with Horcoff on a one timer.

I'll let that sink in for a second.

No, not a, stop the pass, look at the net, look back down, shovel it towards the net in a hope the goalie still hasn't gotten there yet manner, nor was this the 3rd or 4th one timer set up to him at the same spot on the ice in one shift where he'd finally get the timing down. It was a true one timer and he even went top shelf with it.

I had high hopes, but with unrealistic play like this my dream of a true to life hockey game goes on hold for another year.

Did they mention whether that was in hardcore mode or not?

I think this was in reference to Be a Pro mode.

Sorry guys, game is broken.

Went to pick this up at lunch and Futureshop had the game on display. Picked up the controller to play and about 6 minutes in was able to score with Horcoff on a one timer.

I'll let that sink in for a second.

No, not a, stop the pass, look at the net, look back down, shovel it towards the net in a hope the goalie still hasn't gotten there yet manner, nor was this the 3rd or 4th one timer set up to him at the same spot on the ice in one shift where he'd finally get the timing down. It was a true one timer and he even went top shelf with it.

I had high hopes, but with unrealistic play like this my dream of a true to life hockey game goes on hold for another year.

But did you have 3 goalies dressed?

Played my first game as Columbus vs. Nashville. I won 2-1, with 29 shots for me and 23 against. I was 2/7 for PP and NSH was 1/8. Fantastic game, Chimera scored on a 5-3 PP on a garbage goal (Rebound came right to him and he scored 5-hole on Rinne).

BTW, this was on SuperStar and Current game style (edited Hardcore)

Here's what I edited and some thoughts about each:

Tuner Set: Latest - Didn't play w/ the original set, but gameplay was great with the latest set

Game Length: 12 minutes - Feels like a pretty good length, at least in terms of stats and such. Gonna keep this.

Game Speed: 1
Player Accel: 2 HUM/2 CPU
- Seemed to be a good speed, faster players (Chimera) were noticeably fast

Attribute Effects: Maxed - Definitely a great slider to have this year, felt like the best players were the best, and the 4th liners had little skill. Belak was in for the Preds and couldn't make a pass to save his life. Dump and chase is the way to go with those guys, as in real life.

Fatigue Effect: 6 HUM/6 CPU
Fatigue Recovery: 1 HUM/ 1 CPU
Injury Occurrence: 6 (max) HUM/ 6 CPU

I think the fatigue effect was a little much, so I'm going with 5/5 for my next set of games. I also didn't analyze the ice time, but I'll check that next game and see if ice time matches real life. Another thing is that fatigue definitely affects play, as guys who got stuck on the ice for a while had trouble making passes.

Another awesome moment: Tyutin hurt his wrist from an attempted stick lift by Hornqvist. On top of that, Hornqvist got a game misconduct for it! As long as this doesn't happen every game and for every injury, I'm happy to see this in.

Puck Control: 0/0
Stick Lift Effect: 5/5
Poke Check Effect: 5/5

- Seems excessive, but the top guys still keep the puck most of the time and it is easy to get the puck from the lower end guys. This makes the game sloppier with the unskilled players, but skill still prevails with the better players.

CPU Difficulty: 3
CPU Faceoff Difficulty: 4
CPU and CPU Teammate Penalties: 6

- Good game from a middling team. I'm turning down penalties from 6 to 5 for both settings, as there are too many scrum penalties. I'm hoping to still see about 5 or 6 PP's each game.

Manual Passing: On
Pass Speed (and Saucer): 4
Pass Accuracy: 1 HUM/0 CPU
Pass Interceptions: 6/6

- Accuracy is tough to gauge, and I think it will depend on how well you do with the manual passing. I had it at 1 for me, but I'm going up to 3, as I missed too many passes in my own zone, killing any offense. 0 is good for CPU, as they still complete plenty of their passes, but longer passes aren't as accurate, something that is very realistic. Also, fatigue effects accuracy as well.

Shot (Wrist and Slap) Accuracy: 1/1
Shot (Wrist and Slap) Power: 1/1
One-Timer Accuracy: 1/1

- Power is a little too low, as there were too many weak shots, so I'm upping to 3/3 for both wrist and slapshots. Accuracy was fine for now, but I might go up to 2/2 for that.

I don't remember any one timers for me, as it is too hard to pass into the slot with the manual passing.

Hitting Difficulty: 5
Aggression: 5/5
Hitting Power: 2/2

- This is crazy to say, but there were not enough hits that knocked players off of the puck, even with the stronger players. So I'm upping the hitting power to 3/3.

Goalie: Default Hardcore, except Cover Puck: 6

- Goalies played really well, Mason made a couple of fantastic saves to keep it 2-1 for me.



Overall, I think this game, while not perfect, is much more realistic than any game I played of 09.

Sorry guys, game is broken.

Went to pick this up at lunch and Futureshop had the game on display. Picked up the controller to play and about 6 minutes in was able to score with Horcoff on a one timer.

I'll let that sink in for a second.

No, not a, stop the pass, look at the net, look back down, shovel it towards the net in a hope the goalie still hasn't gotten there yet manner, nor was this the 3rd or 4th one timer set up to him at the same spot on the ice in one shift where he'd finally get the timing down. It was a true one timer and he even went top shelf with it.

I had high hopes, but with unrealistic play like this my dream of a true to life hockey game goes on hold for another year.
It took me a long time to get this post. :lol:

But did you have 3 goalies dressed?

Nah, they already seem to have MacT out from behind the bench so I think this glitch has been taken care of.

I'm holding off on this one until I read impressions here. I read too many reviews that said this is just NHL 09 with board play and stupid first person fighting. I have the demo and it feels a lot like NHL 09. Sometimes I feel like the game is sucking me into the board play simply because I'm near the boards before the puck gets there. NHL 09 is a fun game but I want a better, improved game rather than the same game with a couple of new features (it seems).

Picked this up after work, went to sleep, and now am ready to play! Can't wait.

Oh yea, quick question...

I need a team. I don't follow hockey at all, so I don't have a team that I root for that would make sense to play as.

Anyone have any suggestions?

I like good goalies and strong defenses.

Oh yea, quick question...

I need a team. I don't follow hockey at all, so I don't have a team that I root for that would make sense to play as.

Anyone have any suggestions?

I like good goalies and strong defenses.

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/logos/nhl/detroit_red_wings_1995.gif

Oh yea, quick question...

I need a team. I don't follow hockey at all, so I don't have a team that I root for that would make sense to play as.

Anyone have any suggestions?

I like good goalies and strong defenses.

Seems like Edmonton and Calgary have both decided that you only need 1-2 skill forwards if you have 4 top earning D and a solid goalie.

Do you prefer mobile/offensive type D, big hitters or a balanced group?

Oh yea, quick question...

I need a team. I don't follow hockey at all, so I don't have a team that I root for that would make sense to play as.

Anyone have any suggestions?

I like good goalies and strong defenses.

Use the Kings. Great young D, good young goalie, and a nice set of forwards.

Use the Kings. Great young D, good young goalie, and a nice set of forwards.

Stop teasing him.

How about a good team to rebuild? Are the Coyotes still a mess?

Seems like Edmonton and Calgary have both decided that you only need 1-2 skill forwards if you have 4 top earning D and a solid goalie.

Do you prefer mobile/offensive type D, big hitters or a balanced group?

Mobile/Offensive, I think.

How about a good team to rebuild? Are the Coyotes still a mess?

Yes. As are the Islanders.

I think I read that you can do one of those Fantasy Drafts to start the game. I've always been a big fan of those. A fun way to start a game and build your team how you want.

Mobile/Offensive, I think.

Detroit, Calgary, Edmonton, Nashville, Washington with some varying levels of rebuilding to be done with each depending on how much of a challenge you want and what other team strengths/weaknesses you like.

Yes. As are the Islanders.

I think I read that you can do one of those Fantasy Drafts to start the game. I've always been a big fan of those. A fun way to start a game and build your team how you want.

And an excellent way to get rid of the cap headaches teams may have backed themselves into up to this point (yes Lowe, I'm looking at you).

How about a good team to rebuild? Are the Coyotes still a mess?

Yes. I'd suggest Nashville if you want a decent team with several good young players. The Predators are seemingly two or three players away from being very good.

I think this was in reference to Be a Pro mode.

Yes, it was. This is the mode I'm most interested in trying out. Just had time to re-read the review and it was referring to that mode. Anyway, overall the review is very positive and with the positive impressions here so far, I'll likely pick this up this week.

It took me a long time to get this post. :lol:

Still means you're way ahead of MacT on that front.

I'm getting out-shot 50 something to less than 10 every game. What am I doing wrong?

Maybe I need to move down to pro. ;)

After 2 games, I think Madden is going to be collecting dust. I'm not a hockey expert but I love the way the game flows and the swings in pressure if myself or the CPU is able to get the puck in the zone and keep it there.

Played my first game as Columbus vs. Nashville. I won 2-1, with 29 shots for me and 23 against. I was 2/7 for PP and NSH was 1/8. Fantastic game, Chimera scored on a 5-3 PP on a garbage goal (Rebound came right to him and he scored 5-hole on Rinne).

BTW, this was on SuperStar and Current game style (edited Hardcore)

Here's what I edited and some thoughts about each:

Tuner Set: Latest - Didn't play w/ the original set, but gameplay was great with the latest set

Game Length: 12 minutes - Feels like a pretty good length, at least in terms of stats and such. Gonna keep this.

Game Speed: 1
Player Accel: 2 HUM/2 CPU
- Seemed to be a good speed, faster players (Chimera) were noticeably fast

Attribute Effects: Maxed - Definitely a great slider to have this year, felt like the best players were the best, and the 4th liners had little skill. Belak was in for the Preds and couldn't make a pass to save his life. Dump and chase is the way to go with those guys, as in real life.

Fatigue Effect: 6 HUM/6 CPU
Fatigue Recovery: 1 HUM/ 1 CPU
Injury Occurrence: 6 (max) HUM/ 6 CPU

I think the fatigue effect was a little much, so I'm going with 5/5 for my next set of games. I also didn't analyze the ice time, but I'll check that next game and see if ice time matches real life. Another thing is that fatigue definitely affects play, as guys who got stuck on the ice for a while had trouble making passes.

Another awesome moment: Tyutin hurt his wrist from an attempted stick lift by Hornqvist. On top of that, Hornqvist got a game misconduct for it! As long as this doesn't happen every game and for every injury, I'm happy to see this in.

Puck Control: 0/0
Stick Lift Effect: 5/5
Poke Check Effect: 5/5

- Seems excessive, but the top guys still keep the puck most of the time and it is easy to get the puck from the lower end guys. This makes the game sloppier with the unskilled players, but skill still prevails with the better players.

CPU Difficulty: 3
CPU Faceoff Difficulty: 4
CPU and CPU Teammate Penalties: 6

- Good game from a middling team. I'm turning down penalties from 6 to 5 for both settings, as there are too many scrum penalties. I'm hoping to still see about 5 or 6 PP's each game.

Manual Passing: On
Pass Speed (and Saucer): 4
Pass Accuracy: 1 HUM/0 CPU
Pass Interceptions: 6/6

- Accuracy is tough to gauge, and I think it will depend on how well you do with the manual passing. I had it at 1 for me, but I'm going up to 3, as I missed too many passes in my own zone, killing any offense. 0 is good for CPU, as they still complete plenty of their passes, but longer passes aren't as accurate, something that is very realistic. Also, fatigue effects accuracy as well.

Shot (Wrist and Slap) Accuracy: 1/1
Shot (Wrist and Slap) Power: 1/1
One-Timer Accuracy: 1/1

- Power is a little too low, as there were too many weak shots, so I'm upping to 3/3 for both wrist and slapshots. Accuracy was fine for now, but I might go up to 2/2 for that.

I don't remember any one timers for me, as it is too hard to pass into the slot with the manual passing.

Hitting Difficulty: 5
Aggression: 5/5
Hitting Power: 2/2

- This is crazy to say, but there were not enough hits that knocked players off of the puck, even with the stronger players. So I'm upping the hitting power to 3/3.

Goalie: Default Hardcore, except Cover Puck: 6

- Goalies played really well, Mason made a couple of fantastic saves to keep it 2-1 for me.



Overall, I think this game, while not perfect, is much more realistic than any game I played of 09.

Played a game with these and lost Dal 4, Det 2. Jumped out to a 2-0 lead a couple minutes into the 1st period then we couldn't get anything going. Modano had a hat trick. Dallas had 36 shots, to our 24.

These adjustments played very well. Long shifts killed us in the 3rd period, they were able to chase down all the lose pucks.

After 2 games, I think Madden is going to be collecting dust. I'm not a hockey expert but I love the way the game flows and the swings in pressure if myself or the CPU is able to get the puck in the zone and keep it there.

I think NCAA is getting shelved for a bit... this game is really addicting!

Played a game with these and lost Dal 4, Det 2. Jumped out to a 2-0 lead a couple minutes into the 1st period then we couldn't get anything going. Modano had a hat trick. Dallas had 36 shots, to our 24.

These adjustments played very well. Long shifts killed us in the 3rd period, they were able to chase down all the lose pucks.

Thanks for the post. I definitely agree with the long shifts, which is very realistic. I played a game last night against the Ducks, and I was up 3-1 in the 3rd. I ended up with only 3 or 4 shots in the period, as I was mostly dumping the puck and switching lines a good amount, trying to keep my guys fresh.

Matching lines is now VERY important, as the skill players are tough to go against. I ran my checking line out more than my 1st line in the 3rd period of the Ducks game, as well as my shutdown pairing of Commodore-Hejda. I could notice a difference between those two, who are very skilled defensively, and my 3rd pairing of Methot-Russell, two smaller, younger guys. When the 3rd pairing was on the ice against the Getzlaf line, I gave up a goal and too many scoring chances.

I've made some modifications to the above settings and I'll post those when I get home later this evening. I know I toned down the injury settings, as someone got hurt every game (and another game misconduct on a bad stick lift, resulting in a broken nose). Overall, these sliders make it a challenge to score with (rebounds are your friend!), but you can still score from point shots and wristers as well, so it seems (through 4 or 5 games), that there is a good variety.

If anyone else tests these sliders, let me know.

Matching lines is now VERY important, as the skill players are tough to go against.

Is this is any mode or only in the new hardcore mode?

Is this is any mode or only in the new hardcore mode?

I have only played on the hardcore mode, so I can't answer that for sure. The two important sliders for this are 1) Attribute Effects and 2) Fatigue settings

I have Attribute Effects set to the max (6). I think this is the most important, as you'll notice a large difference, even between the 90's and high 80 guys versus the low 80 guys.

Fatigue plays an important role this year, especially with passing the puck. This is why quick line changes are needed in the 3rd period. I always hear coaches talk about taking short shifts in the 3rd, but you really have to do that in this game. I've never used manual line changing before, but I'm a believer in it now.

Also, a little neat feature regarding lines is that you can set the starting lineups as well. I've been going with the 3rd forward line to start most of the games with my 1st defensive line, trying to counter the star power of the other team's best forwards.

In the demo you can start a fight or get roughing minors after the play. After slashing a player repeatedly after a whistle eventually all skaters on the ice pair off and go after each other yet I've only ever seen one or matching minors for roughing. Anyone seen more than that in the full game?

I'm at a major crossroads here. I'm in the market for a new game, and I can't decide between Fight Night, Madden, or NHL10. Played Fight Night at a friends, and loved it, Madden may have it's issues, but football season has really gotten me in the mood, and I bought NHL for the first time last yr and had an absolute blast with it.

I've only played one game so far and the passing learning curve is going to take a little while, but I'm very pleased. I was even playing without the upgraded tuner set, so now I'm really looking forwards to the small tweaks. I took way too many tripping penalties on poke checks, but that was really my only complaint and probably mostly my own fault anyways.

Bringing the fantasy draft back and all the different modes you can do make this a very attractive game. The Flyers will be hoisting the virtual stanley cup soon enough .. the real one? Who knows.

Wow, the fighting engine is terrible. I mean, a total waste of time. Why build a first-person engine if there's no thought put into how fights work?

Right now, you hit the "I want to fight please" button and two guys just pair off. No rhyme or reason. It could be a skill guy who never fights against a heavyweight, doesn't matter. And then you mash buttons for two seconds, and one guy falls down.

And by "one guy", it really is which ever guy mashed his buttons quickest. I saw Jason Spezza KO Colton Orr, and Micky Grabovski speedbag Chris Neil. Well, I didn't "see" the second one since I blinked and missed the entire fight, but it happened.

For years I've complained about how the NHL games limit your fights, and finally this one doesn't. In the last game of a series sweep, my opponent went looking for fights and we had five in the final minutes. I thought that would have been awesome. It wasn't. It was an annoying waste of time.

The frustrating part is that EA had this whole thing right 16 years ago. NHL 93 fights were great... usually a good pairing, and tough guys had an advantage (but could still lose). Why can't we have that again?

Anybody here using easportsworld for uploading video to? Not that I encourage it but I find rolling through those to be an excellent way to kill part of the work day while making me wish I was at home to do some more gaming.

If anybody is up for it, add me on there (Nikle on the PS3). Always fun to see what others put up for highlights.

Renting it for the first time in years....

Gotta DL a system update first :)

Here's a couple of my goals from my current Battle for the Cup against Carolina:

<img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyNTMxNDM*MTk2NDMmcHQ9MTI1MzE*MzQ*ODQ2NyZwPTk1MDcxJmQ9Jmc9MSZvPTBmMWFlNjM*YmZhNzQyYWE5OWEyMjk5NzFiY2M*ZmJmJm9mPTA=.gif" /><object width="640" height="360"><param name="wmode" value="transparent" valuetype="data" /><param name="movie" value="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/110.2.0/flash/mdMediaPlugin/mediaplayer.swf?file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/nhl10/15542265/762A0001_2_FLV_VIDEO_wrw.flv&link=http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9349841&linkfromdisplay=true&linktarget=_top&image=" valuetype="data" /><embed src="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/110.2.0/flash/mdMediaPlugin/mediaplayer.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="height=360&width=640&file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/nhl10/15542265/762A0001_2_FLV_VIDEO_wrw.flv&link=http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9349841&linkfromdisplay=true&linktarget=_top&image="></embed></object><div style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><a href="http://www.easports.com/" target="_top" shape="rect">EA Sports</a>: <a href="http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9349841" target="_top" shape="rect">NEW VIDEO</a></div>

<img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyNTMxNDM*OTE3NDgmcHQ9MTI1MzE*MzQ5NjI3NyZwPTk1MDcxJmQ9Jmc9MSZvPTBmMWFlNjM*YmZhNzQyYWE5OWEyMjk5NzFiY2M*ZmJmJm9mPTA=.gif" /><object width="640" height="360"><param name="wmode" value="transparent" valuetype="data" /><param name="movie" value="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/110.2.0/flash/mdMediaPlugin/mediaplayer.swf?file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/nhl10/15542265/762A0001_1_FLV_VIDEO_acw.flv&link=http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9348993&linkfromdisplay=true&linktarget=_top&image=" valuetype="data" /><embed src="http://cdn.www.easports.com/static/110.2.0/flash/mdMediaPlugin/mediaplayer.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="height=360&width=640&file=http://cdn.content.easports.com/media2/nhl10/15542265/762A0001_1_FLV_VIDEO_acw.flv&link=http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9348993&linkfromdisplay=true&linktarget=_top&image="></embed></object><div style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><a href="http://www.easports.com/" target="_top" shape="rect">EA Sports</a>: <a href="http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/9348993" target="_top" shape="rect">NEW VIDEO</a></div>

I think they finally have the rebound play correct, which is a real treat.

I figured the fighting engine was broken when they featured Petr Sykora in a fight in promotional videos. It amazes me how these guys proclaim to be hockey fans and yet allow people like Sykora and Grabovski to fight in the game.

Thanks for the post. I definitely agree with the long shifts, which is very realistic. I played a game last night against the Ducks, and I was up 3-1 in the 3rd. I ended up with only 3 or 4 shots in the period, as I was mostly dumping the puck and switching lines a good amount, trying to keep my guys fresh.

Matching lines is now VERY important, as the skill players are tough to go against. I ran my checking line out more than my 1st line in the 3rd period of the Ducks game, as well as my shutdown pairing of Commodore-Hejda. I could notice a difference between those two, who are very skilled defensively, and my 3rd pairing of Methot-Russell, two smaller, younger guys. When the 3rd pairing was on the ice against the Getzlaf line, I gave up a goal and too many scoring chances.

I've made some modifications to the above settings and I'll post those when I get home later this evening. I know I toned down the injury settings, as someone got hurt every game (and another game misconduct on a bad stick lift, resulting in a broken nose). Overall, these sliders make it a challenge to score with (rebounds are your friend!), but you can still score from point shots and wristers as well, so it seems (through 4 or 5 games), that there is a good variety.

If anyone else tests these sliders, let me know.

I got smoked last night 8-3, I was Washington hosting Edmonton. It was 5-2 a little over half way through the first period. Not sure what the deal was but my goalie sucked, I pulled him after he let up 4 then the new guy promptly let up one. Then things settled down.

These might be a little too tough for me, I got outshot 37-22. I'm gonna try another game or two tonight. This is the first time I've played NHL since the 90s.

Does the AI actually sub in backup goalies?

Do goalies get hurt in NON-simmed games?

Do penalties actually get called a realistic amount of time?

Heres what I realized after one day renting this.

Not only does it look like a great game it has shown how little I care for the NHL or hockey anymore. Itll be shelved in place of my other rental RB: Beatles until they go back Sunday night.

These might be a little too tough for me, I got outshot 37-22. I'm gonna try another game or two tonight. This is the first time I've played NHL since the 90s.

Yeah, if you haven't played NHL 09, at least, then these will probably be too tough. I think most of these changes would still work, even if you went away from SuperStar down to the level below. Let me know if you do that and how it goes.

I'm really having fun thus far.. loaded about 75+ songs into the game and it's nice to hear them thoughout parts of the game.

I'm getting out played on AS, but I'm getting better. :)

I used your sliders on Pro and All-Star and both work fantastically. I used Pro for a few games and now I'm up to All-Star and having some solid games.

I used the sliders in this thread (except on Pro level) with the considered adjustments and it was a fun game even though I lost with my Flyers to the Sabres 3-2. A few thoughts after this game:

- Presentation in this game is very impressive.

- I haven't followed hockey at all in a few years, but I'm still a bit surprised at how few of the Flyers I recognize at all. There is Simon Gagne.. and uh.. not too many others that I remember watching when I last watched them.

- The new controls are going to take a while for me to get used to, but I think I'll really enjoy them once I get the hang of them.

- I got slaughtered on faceoffs. Is there a trick to doing them? I'm just pressing down on the right stick when I think the puck is about to drop. I lost 75% of the faceoffs.

Yeah faceoffs are just about timing when to pull the Right stick. Have also on mind that a big factor is the player's faceoff attributes.

I'm really bad at face-offs as well so I turned down that slider a notch or two and now I'm happy with it.

Yeah faceoffs are just about timing when to pull the Right stick. Have also on mind that a big factor is the player's faceoff attributes.

That explains it. The centers on the Flyers all have terrible faceoff ratings.

I've been playing "play now" games while getting comfortable with the controls on Pro difficulty and I just looked at my team stats for the first time and noticed that it says I completed 0 of 178 passes!?! I know my passing isn't very accurate, but I completed some of them in a 3-1 win, including a 1 timer. Is that a known bug with the manual passing or some other issue?

I've been playing "play now" games while getting comfortable with the controls on Pro difficulty and I just looked at my team stats for the first time and noticed that it says I completed 0 of 178 passes!?! I know my passing isn't very accurate, but I completed some of them in a 3-1 win, including a 1 timer. Is that a known bug with the manual passing or some other issue?

Yeah, I have the same thing happen as well. It must be a bug.

I haven't had much time to play this, and I won't until after my exam on Thursday. Next weekend will give me some time to tweak the sliders further.

Can anyone else comment on the realism of the fighting engine? Is there a way to discourage the game from having star players fight goons?

I am having a blast with this game. I have put NCAA on the shelf.

Maybe because I don't know as much about hockey, I don't know there are the flaws I see in the football game!

Wow....what an ending.

So, I'm playing as Phoenix. We turn in two TERRIBLE seasons but build up our young talent with a #4 pick in 2010 and the #1 pick in 2011.

Now I'm in the 2011/2012 season, and we put together a great campaign, going 43-33-6 and making the playoffs as the #5 seed.

We sweep the LA Kings in the first round and face off against Columbus in the 2nd round. They had a 46-29-7 season and have some great players on their squad.

Here's a quick rundown of who they have:

Jakub Voracek (72 Points)
Rick Nash (68 Points)
Martin St. Louis (60 Points)
Marc Savard (60 Points)

At goalie, they have Steve Mason who let up 2.63 goals per game.

I really have built up my team. For this season, here were our top players:

Vincent LeCavlier (95 Points)
Ilya Kovalchuk (91 Points)
Kyle Turris (69 Points)
Enver Lisin (58 Points)
Peter Mueller (50 Points)

On defense, our first line is Ed Jovanski and Zdeno Charra (we traded for him during the season...the Bruins were doing terrible).

Anyway, here's how the series shook out.

Game 1: W 6-3
Game 2: L 2-1
Game 3: W 4-1
Game 4: L 6-3
Game 5: W 4-3

So we get to Game 6 and it's a back and forth affair. First goal isn't scored until the 2nd period, and the game is tied 2-2 at the start of the 3rd.

The 3rd is a defensive battle with a few shots that hit the post.

We get to about :30 left in the game and they have possession. I forget exactly what happened, but they shoot and Montoya (my goalie) makes an easy save. They start dropping back so I pass it out to one of my defenders quickly, thinking that I might have one more shot. He makes a great pass up to one of my wingers and we bring it into the zone from the right side and it's 2 on 2.

My RW dekes out the defender to get a clear passing lane into the slot where my center is. He makes a ridiculous play, accepting the pass between his legs, spins and takes a shot..

DING. Hits the top post and flies out of play with 6.2 seconds left.

I put in my top scoring line even though they are pretty tired because I know I have one shot left and they really need a miracle.

I win the faceoff and it goes to my right winger. He quickly passes it out to the point where my defenseman is sitting. He has a clear shot. The puck flies up right past the glove of their goalie and hits the back of the net with 3.2 seconds left, clinching the series!

That is awesome, did you sim the first two seasons?

That is awesome, did you sim the first two seasons?

Not entirely. I typically played 1 game and then simmed 3 or 4, but once I got to 20-25 games left and I was in last place I would sim the rest.

I've been reading about "robo" goalie and wondering if it was a legitimate issue. Most of my games have been 2-1 affairs, with the occasional 3-2 affair mixed in. I gave up on the hardcore passing with no assistance a few games ago. Well, I finally had my first breakout game against the Lightning. Felt like I couldn't do anything wrong as we destroyed them at home 9-2. Jeff Carter and Gagne each had a hat trick. Having a blast with this game. I guess it's time to finally move up from Pro (I'm 5-5 exclusively on that level) :)

I'll warn you.. AS is a biatch!

Yea...I have some great sliders for Pro that I feel are very fair. All-Star to me is just way too hard. I get outshot by 15-20 every game on AS.

None of you playing online BAP in the EASHL? with the right team that plays realisticaly, it's really really addictive to manage only your created player. I'm in a team (Ps3) mainly formed by OS forums guys and it's a blast.

Yea...I have some great sliders for Pro that I feel are very fair. All-Star to me is just way too hard. I get outshot by 15-20 every game on AS.

Care to share? I'm all for sticking on Pro if I can get some good sliders that make it fair. After struggling my first few games, I'm routinely outshooting my opponents by 10-12 shots per game (although I did make a few trades and have a great set of defenders led by Pronger.)

Care to share? I'm all for sticking on Pro if I can get some good sliders that make it fair.

+1

Sure, give me a few.

dola

While I fire up the 360...

The biggest issue I was having was that I was outshooting the CPU on Pro by a large margin and was getting outshot on All-Star by a large margin.

I believe this is because on Pro, the CPU defense plays a much more passive game. You can take the puck into the offensive zone easily, and sit there by the blue line without the defenders doing much. On All-Star, they're right up on you.

So, what the main theory I had with the sliders was to increase their ability to turn the puck over while decreasing mine. That should even out offensive opportunities, therefore increase shots on goal.

For me, it worked. But I was getting about 20-25 shots per team per game. I wanted it to be around 30, so one thing I did was up accuracy a bit. That also helped open up scoring a bit, because I had consistently finished games 2-1.

12 Minute Periods
Penalties: Max
Post-Whistle Rules: Relaxed (Think this is a must because the CPU is crazy)
Penalty Time-Scaling: 0
Fighting: Middle (I think there are only 3 total clicks possible, but put it in the middle)


Basic

Skill Level: PRO
Game Style: Current

General

Tuner: Latest
CPU Aid: Hardcore
Game Speed: 1
Attribute Effects: Max
Fatigue Effect: 5/5
Fatigue Recovery: 1/1
Injury Occurence: 5/5
Puck Control: 0/3
Player Acceleration: 2/2

AI

AI Learning: Max
CPU Diff. Adj.: Max
CPU Faceoff Diff.: 3
Fight Diff.: 4
CPU Penalties: Max
CPU Teammate Penalties: 4

Passing

Pass Assist: 3
Manual Passing: Off
Pass Speed: 4
Saucer Speed: 4
Pass Accuracy: 0/0
Pass Interceptions: 4/6

Shooting

Shot Accuracy: 2/2
Shot Power: 4/4
Slap Shot Accuracy: 2/2
Slap Shot Power: 4/4
One Time Accuracy: 1/1

Checking

Hitting Difficulty: Max
Aggression: 5/6
Hitting Power: 1/2
Stick Lift: 4/6
Poke Effect: 4/6

Goalies

Passing: 0
Puck Cover Freq: Max
Screen Effect: 3/3
Reaction: 3/3


Test these out...The one thing I do try to avoid is body checking everyone...use the poke check much more often.

Quick note... I also use Automatic shot aiming. Not sure if that makes a huge difference.

About to try these sliders out. Quick question. In the scouting screen, what does LI stand for?

About to try these sliders out. Quick question. In the scouting screen, what does LI stand for?

Hmm...I'm in a game so I can't look now. Don't remember seeing LI. Where do you see it?

Oh.

League Interest.

Under it, it says High, Some, None?

Yes, it says high, some, none. That makes sense and what I was guessing, but I wasn't sure.

About to try these sliders out. Quick question. In the scouting screen, what does LI stand for?

Let me know what you think about those sliders, I'm hoping to start my Be A GM tonight after the kids go to bed.

Anyone know if players fatigue over the course of the season? Should I sit my starting goalie on occassion?

Here's my most recent game. Keep in mind this is from my 5th franchise season so the teams certainly are different than now.

PHX 5

Shots: 21
Hits: 15
Faceoffs: 22
Time on Attack: 9:47
PIM: 6:00
PP: 0/3
Passing %: 60

ANA 4

Shots: 22
Hits: 13
Faceoffs: 12
Time on Attack: 4:06
PIM: 6:00
PP: 0/2
Passing %: 70

1st Period:

PHX Goal 11:10

2nd Period:

ANA Goal: 10:34

3rd Period:

PHX Goal: 3:49
PHX Goal: 5:57
ANA Goal: 11:15
ANA Goal: 12:55
PHX Goal: 16:29
PHX Goal: 16:57
ANA Goal: 19:41

Pretty crazy game. 3rd period was back and forth. Their last goal was 6 on 4. Goalie pulled and I had a man in the box.

Let me know what you think about those sliders, I'm hoping to start my Be A GM tonight after the kids go to bed.

Anyone know if players fatigue over the course of the season? Should I sit my starting goalie on occassion?

First game went well, as it was a more challenging game that felt fair. My Flyers vs the Sabres. We had a chance to win it in regulation, but with 3.2 seconds left Claude Giroux (who had already scored on my first ever breakaway goal earlier in the game) hit the crossbar and it bounced away. Buffalo took it in OT on a 4-3 PP Goal from Roy.

Before on Pro, I was consistently outshooting the CPU, but this game we shot it 29 times and they shot it 30. Everything about the game felt pretty good. Going to try another game now.

Dola -

Here are all of my team stats:

Sabres 3

Total Shots: 30
Power Plays: 2/5
Power Play Minutes: 7:00
Breakaways: 1
One-timers: 2
Faceoffs Won: 15
Hits: 14
Penalties: 7
Penalty Minutes: 14:00
Passing: 163/224 (72%)
Time on Attack: 7:27

Flyers 2
Total Shots: 29
Powerplays: 0/6
Powerplay minutes: 12:48
Breakaways: 1
One-Timers: 2
Faceoffs Won: 16
Hits: 15
Penalties: 5
Penalty Minutes: 10
Passing: 112/192 (58% - I tried too many risky passes.)
Time on Attack: 11:13

First game went well, as it was a more challenging game that felt fair. My Flyers vs the Sabres. We had a chance to win it in regulation, but with 3.2 seconds left Claude Giroux (who had already scored on my first ever breakaway goal earlier in the game) hit the crossbar and it bounced away. Buffalo took it in OT on a 4-3 PP Goal from Roy.

Before on Pro, I was consistently outshooting the CPU, but this game we shot it 29 times and they shot it 30. Everything about the game felt pretty good. Going to try another game now.

Nice!

How was your time on attack compared to theirs? I'm having a tough time judging it because my team is a heavy fore-checking team and I have turnover machines on my #1 line, so I spend a ton of time in the opponents offensive zone.

Dola -

Another question. My players keep getting experience after each game. Do I need to do something to spend that experience? Is there a certain time to do so? Or is it automatic?

Dola -

Another question. My players keep getting experience after each game. Do I need to do something to spend that experience? Is there a certain time to do so? Or is it automatic?

Nope..it's automatic. However, you can influence what they spend it on by changing what they are training. For example:

My first line is Kovalchuk, Lecavlier, and Mueller. Kovalchuk is a sniper, so he'll be shooting a lot. I have him training "Shooting Skills." When he gets XP, it will go towards a few categories that are important for Shooting, such as Accuracy and Power.

Mueller is a playmaker, so he doesn't shoot a lot but he's the assist machine. So I have him training "Offensive: Playmaking." So his passing and other similar skills will go up when he gets XP.

You can see how they've progressed on one of those coaching screens, I believe.

That first game I posted was on the road. My next game was at home vs the Blues. They jumped to an early 1-0 lead in the 1st minute on a clean slap shot that beat Emery's glove. We responded with an unlikely goal - shorthanded, Pronger went just slightly into their zone and unleashed a ferocious slap shot that hit the goalie's leg pad, bounced up into the air, hit his mask, and then bounced off the top of his mask into the net!

Pronger with a slightly closer (and clean) slap shot had a 2nd shorthanded goal towards the end of the 1st period. That seemed to almost demoralize them as it opened up for us in the 2nd period. My #1 scoring line of Gagne-Carter-Giroux went to work and scored 3 goals (Carter scored 2 and Gagne 1.) We finished with a 6-2 win.

Despite this, the team stats actually looked good and we were outshot again:

Blues:
Goals: 2
Total Shots: 32
Power Plays: 0/6
Power Play Minutes: 11:40
One Timers: 1
Faceoffs Won: 22
Hits: 17
Penalties: 2
Passing: 165/221 (74%)
Time on Attack: 7:21


Flyers:
Goals: 6
Total Shots: 29
Power Plays: 0/2
PP Minutes: 4:00
Short Handed Goals: 2
Faceoffs won: 14
Hits: 19
Penalties: 6
Penalty Minutes: 12:00
Passing: 98/164 (59)
Time On Attack: 9:21

Anyway, I think these sliders are going to work well for me for now and I'm going to stick with them for a while.

Cool, I'll have to check these out...are you using auto aim too?

Cool, I'll have to check these out...are you using auto aim too?

Yes, I am. My skills just aren't what they used to be back when I played this game last in the 90's.

Spent a few hours downloading sound files from OS, what a nice addition. Just like being there!

Well shit, I can't seem to find auto aim for shooting!

Well shit, I can't seem to find auto aim for shooting!


It's an option that is selectable in the setup area of each game after you pick your lineups. I don't think you can set it at any other spot.

It's an option that is selectable in the setup area of each game after you pick your lineups. I don't think you can set it at any other spot.

Oh cool, that explains it. Thanks !

Spent a few hours downloading sound files from OS, what a nice addition. Just like being there!

Hey...do you have a PS3 or 360? If 360, any other way than burning to a CD and then loading 'em into the system?

I know on PS3 you can put them on a USB and then transfer them but I'm not sure 360 does that.

Just tried those sliders and had a great game, I won BOS 2, PIT 1. They had 25 shots to my 24, all the scoring was in the 1st period. I was a little concerned when I went up 2-0 and outshot them 14-4 but after the 2nd period it was 18-15 in my favor.

Hey...do you have a PS3 or 360? If 360, any other way than burning to a CD and then loading 'em into the system?

I know on PS3 you can put them on a USB and then transfer them but I'm not sure 360 does that.
It is possible to stream the sounds from your 360, but you would need to set up media sharing between your 360 and your PC. I did it with mine about a year ago, but I don't exactly remember how I did it. Urgh. But what I can tell you is that it is possible. Are you interested in trying that? I can look up the steps.

It is possible to stream the sounds from your 360, but you would need to set up media sharing between your 360 and your PC. I did it with mine about a year ago, but I don't exactly remember how I did it. Urgh. But what I can tell you is that it is possible. Are you interested in trying that? I can look up the steps.

Yea I would actually love to set that up. I tried once and I messed something up.

I might try auto aiming on AS to see if I score more goals.

Yea I would actually love to set that up. I tried once and I messed something up.
So start here: Xbox.com | Xbox 360 Media Download Center (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/pcsetup/alldownloads.htm)

After you have set things up, make sure your 360 can "see" your PC. I think you would do that by going to "My Xbox" in your 360 dashboard and selecting "Pictures" or "Music".

Personally, instead of using Windows Media Player, I prefer to stream using the TVersity software (at tversity.com). It's free, and I found it fairly simple to set up. The idea is that you create music playlists on your machine and share them through Windows Media Player or TVersity. When you share them on your network, your 360 should be able to see them, and you can load the playlists into NHL 10.

The biggest problem is that NHL 10's Media Hub is slow. If you are sharing a ton of playlists, it can take forever to set them up. That's an NHL 10 problem, though, and if you don't have more than 20 playlists or so, it's not really that bad.

So start here: Xbox.com | Xbox 360 Media Download Center (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/pcsetup/alldownloads.htm)

After you have set things up, make sure your 360 can "see" your PC. I think you would do that by going to "My Xbox" in your 360 dashboard and selecting "Pictures" or "Music".

Personally, instead of using Windows Media Player, I prefer to stream using the TVersity software (at tversity.com). It's free, and I found it fairly simple to set up. The idea is that you create music playlists on your machine and share them through Windows Media Player or TVersity. When you share them on your network, your 360 should be able to see them, and you can load the playlists into NHL 10.

The biggest problem is that NHL 10's Media Hub is slow. If you are sharing a ton of playlists, it can take forever to set them up. That's an NHL 10 problem, though, and if you don't have more than 20 playlists or so, it's not really that bad.

Thanks Pumpy. I'm gonna try to set it up in a few.

I might try auto aiming on AS to see if I score more goals.

If you are used to manual, i wouldn't go back to auto. Manual aiming is way better once you get the hung of it, as you can place the puck where you want.

So start here: Xbox.com | Xbox 360 Media Download Center (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/pcsetup/alldownloads.htm)

After you have set things up, make sure your 360 can "see" your PC. I think you would do that by going to "My Xbox" in your 360 dashboard and selecting "Pictures" or "Music".

Personally, instead of using Windows Media Player, I prefer to stream using the TVersity software (at tversity.com). It's free, and I found it fairly simple to set up. The idea is that you create music playlists on your machine and share them through Windows Media Player or TVersity. When you share them on your network, your 360 should be able to see them, and you can load the playlists into NHL 10.

The biggest problem is that NHL 10's Media Hub is slow. If you are sharing a ton of playlists, it can take forever to set them up. That's an NHL 10 problem, though, and if you don't have more than 20 playlists or so, it's not really that bad.

Has this worked for you? I spent like 2 hours setting everything up, loaded in tons and tons of custom music and the specific music to each team...

And it doesn't work. Nothing is playing. Someone on OS is having the same issue. Supposedly streaming worked on NCAA but it's not on NHL.

:mad:

Has this worked for you? I spent like 2 hours setting everything up, loaded in tons and tons of custom music and the specific music to each team...

And it doesn't work. Nothing is playing. Someone on OS is having the same issue. Supposedly streaming worked on NCAA but it's not on NHL.

:mad:
First off, sorry about losing two hours. That's the kind of thing that would frustrate me to the point of giving up. I have not tried it in NHL 10, but I was able to get them set up in NHL 09.

So I assume you assigned all the playlists within NHL 10. Did you move any of the music files or playlists after you set them up? I guess I'm trying to find out if your 360 can no longer find the music files.

First off, sorry about losing two hours. That's the kind of thing that would frustrate me to the point of giving up. I have not tried it in NHL 10, but I was able to get them set up in NHL 09.

So I assume you assigned all the playlists within NHL 10. Did you move any of the music files or playlists after you set them up? I guess I'm trying to find out if your 360 can no longer find the music files.

No worries Pumpy. Yes, assigned all the playlists and everything. About to check again now, and then go to the Media Center and see if they'll play from there.

Hmm this is strange.

So maybe this is why you told me to use Tversity. :)

Basically, I created playlists in WMP. But on my XBOX, the playlists are there, but have no songs in them. I'll have to figure out what I did wrong.

Okay...I'm assuming now that I should also share the folder that has all the music files in it. Trying that now.

Okay...I'm assuming now that I should also share the folder that has all the music files in it. Trying that now.
Yeah, I think you need to do that, too. Let me know if it works!

Weird...I can play playlists in Windows Media Center on my Xbox. But when I go to Music Library on the XBOX, I see the playlists, but when I open them, there are no songs.

Weird...I can play playlists in Windows Media Center on my Xbox. But when I go to Music Library on the XBOX, I see the playlists, but when I open them, there are no songs.
Are you still sharing through Windows Media Player? Maybe try TVersity and see if it helps? I've never had the problem you're describing.

Thank you for auto aim suggestion. I was unable to score more than 1 goal a game. I havent played since my PS1, I will change to manual if it gets too easy!

I burnt RW CD on Itunes and had no problem loading them on my hard drive. I was not able to read the song names when I tried with WMP.

If you are used to manual, i wouldn't go back to auto. Manual aiming is way better once you get the hung of it, as you can place the puck where you want.

I just want to score more goals! :banghead:

Still a must buy? Any fatal flaws discovered? Been dying to get back home next week and pick this up.

Still a must buy? Any fatal flaws discovered? Been dying to get back home next week and pick this up.

Honestly, I have played tons of games and been through 4 years of franchise and I LOVE this game.

May have fixed the music stuff...about to check.

I FIXED IT!!

Ahoy!

I just want to score more goals! :banghead:

In NHL10 is way harder to score from direct wristshots than in 09. You need to move the puck a lot to find the open man and to force the G to get out of position (that is why people who was used to 09 is talking about robo-goalie that stops everything shoot at him when in position).

Cross crease/back door pass is your friend, skate at one side of the net, wait for a team mate to go to the opposite post, pass to him and he will score most of the time if you time the pass and one timer well (you need a good passer, with like 80 to 90 passing rating). You can score like 10 goals per game that way in PRO, it becomes harder in All star as the Goalie moves faster from post to post and also the opposite defenseman tries to intercept it or hits the pass receiver before he can shoot. In pro level it almost feel like cheesing.

Another good and more realistic way to score is from rebounds caused by shoots from the point. Cycle the puck to find the open defenseman, then shoot low blocker side from the point, it will set a juicy rebound for your forwards to score or will score a few from tips/deflections from the forwards crashing the net.

Wraparound goals are cheesy this year too, you can score them always in pro, and with good success in all star too, i avoid them.

In NHL10 is way harder to score from direct wristshots than in 09. You need to move the puck a lot to find the open man and to force the G to get out of position (that is why people who was used to 09 is talking about robo-goalie that stops everything shoot at him when in position).

Cross crease/back door pass is your friend, skate at one side of the net, wait for a team mate to go to the opposite post, pass to him and he will score most of the time if you time the pass and one timer well (you need a good passer, with like 80 to 90 passing rating). You can score like 10 goals per game that way in PRO, it becomes harder in All star as the Goalie moves faster from post to post and also the opposite defenseman tries to intercept it or hits the pass receiver before he can shoot. In pro level it almost feel like cheesing.

Another good and more realistic way to score is from rebounds caused by shoots from the point. Cycle the puck to find the open defenseman, then shoot low blocker side from the point, it will set a juicy rebound for your forwards to score or will score a few from tips/deflections from the forwards crashing the net.

Wraparound goals are cheesy this year too, you can score them always in pro, and with good success in all star too, i avoid them.

I agree with this 100%, and I think it makes it more realistic of a game. If you watch a real hockey game, not too many goals are scored by simple wrist shots. However, I was used to 09 when I posted my first settings, and I have since went back to 3/3/3 for accuracy of slap shots, wrist shots and one timers. This gives a pretty good amount of direct shots, one timers, rebounds and cross crease plays.

Also, don't be afraid to pass in high traffic with your good players. For example, Derick Brassard (CBJ) has a very high passing rating, and I was able to pass it cross crease past 2 Devils defensemen and score a sweet goal on Brodeur. Which brings me to another point, the better the goalie, the more you need to rely on "ugly" goals. I managed a cross crease goal, a rebound goal from the point and a wrister from the side to beat the Devils 3-2.

I'm back into the game now, after passing my exam, and I'll post my updated sliders this evening. In reality, they seem pretty close to JetsIn06's sliders from earlier, and I might mess with some changes he has suggested as well.

I'm ready to get started with the franchise now, I just plan on creating a few rookies that aren't in the game (Tavares, Duchense, Hodgson, ect) before I get going.

I would agree that rebounds are the easiest way to score, but more slappers should go in.

This is where NHL 2k10 is better.. although that's about the only thing. :)

I would agree that rebounds are the easiest way to score, but more slappers should go in.

This is where NHL 2k10 is better.. although that's about the only thing. :)

I agree with that, which is why I'm debating changing the power of the slap shot as well, trying to get more of those goals. Also, it might help to increase the screening effect of the goalies, since that seems to contribute to slap shot goals in real life.

Turner - Are you on PS3? There is a pretty sweet roster set available at OS if you are.

I've been playing with Jetsin06 sliders and have had some good games, but I'm starting to out shoot the CPU quite a bit. Last game was 42-18, in which I won 8-3. Before that was 36-17, won 5-1.

Pretty cool thing I noticed during that game, I drilled a winger with Kronwall and knocked him out of the game. For the rest of the game every time Kronwall touched the puck he was boo'd.

Anyone know if you risk players getting injured more if you play them while injured?

Turner - Are you on PS3? There is a pretty sweet roster set available at OS if you are.

I've been playing with Jetsin06 sliders and have had some good games, but I'm starting to out shoot the CPU quite a bit. Last game was 42-18, in which I won 8-3. Before that was 36-17, won 5-1.

Pretty cool thing I noticed during that game, I drilled a winger with Kronwall and knocked him out of the game. For the rest of the game every time Kronwall touched the puck he was boo'd.

Anyone know if you risk players getting injured more if you play them while injured?

Out of curiosity, what team were you and who were you playing? The max attribute effect slider really does widen the gap between great, good, and fringe players.

I played a game recently with the default rosters as Phoenix and got my ass handed to me. Got out-shot and got shut-out.

In my last franchise, four years in with a great squad, I was dominating in shots. I think it's fair, but that's just me. I'm not a great player or anything so it might be too easy for you.

I'd really like to create a similar set but on All-Star, because I think the AI plays smarter, not necessarily more skilled.

Out of curiosity, what team were you and who were you playing? The max attribute effect slider really does widen the gap between great, good, and fringe players.

I played a game recently with the default rosters as Phoenix and got my ass handed to me. Got out-shot and got shut-out.

In my last franchise, four years in with a great squad, I was dominating in shots. I think it's fair, but that's just me. I'm not a great player or anything so it might be too easy for you.

I'd really like to create a similar set but on All-Star, because I think the AI plays smarter, not necessarily more skilled.

I'm playing as Detroit, so I expect to win more than I lose in general. The 5-1 game was against St Louis and the 8-3 game was against Buffalo.

I picked up the game the other day for PS3. If anyone wants to play online, my PSN name is MikeRFOFC

Note: I suck.

I've played enough where I'm close to crowning this game my favorite console sports game of all time.

Good to hear your input Mizzou. I'm not a big hockey fan at all (haven't been since the late 90's). Will I still like this game in your opinion?

The fighting in this game drives me nuts. It's to the point that I think I have to turn it completely off in multiplayer games (player vs. player locally). I'll literally have a breakaway interrupted by an unsportsmanlike penalty way behind the play because I hit the Y button at the wrong time. It happens every single game. How do the game designers not see this when they play against each other? It's so frustrating.

Good to hear your input Mizzou. I'm not a big hockey fan at all (haven't been since the late 90's). Will I still like this game in your opinion?


I'm not a big hockey fan, i just follow stats and highlights, but barely watch a game ever. On the other hand i love this game too. 09 was great, 10 is almost perfect.

Good to hear your input Mizzou. I'm not a big hockey fan at all (haven't been since the late 90's). Will I still like this game in your opinion?

What Icy said..

The board play alone really makes the game that much better, plus they keep releasing "tuners" which basically means they tune the game and then you can download the lastest "tuner" and it changes the way the game plays.

Rent it, I think you will like it.

Anyone play as a goalie? Is it any more fun than "try to get in position and the CPU will auto-save for you" this time?

I'm going to pick it up eventually anyway, but the idea of a career as a goalie is pretty intriguing.

The fighting in this game drives me nuts. It's to the point that I think I have to turn it completely off in multiplayer games (player vs. player locally). I'll literally have a breakaway interrupted by an unsportsmanlike penalty way behind the play because I hit the Y button at the wrong time. It happens every single game. How do the game designers not see this when they play against each other? It's so frustrating.
The fighting is terrible.

And as much as the game is fun, I can't get my head around the people who want to call it "realistic". It's not even close, and I just mean that in the sense of how realistic a video game could reasonably be. Wayne Gretzky Hockey on the computer 20 years ago was more realistic than NHL 10 by a mile.

I just got a PS3 and rented this game... I haven't had this much fun with an NHL game since NHL 94! I'm actually looking for a PSN league to join when I buy this game with the Toys R US buy 2 get 1 free sale going on right now. Anyone in a league that has any open slots?

Be a GM question... if I'm reading the in game help right it says there's a one week period at the end of the season to negotiate contracts with your players, is that correct or am I insane?

I'm playing as Carolina and want to lock up Cam Ward ASAP, for example, am i really waiting til the end of the year to get my shot at doing that?

edit: I'm a total novice to the NHL, so if there are rules about when negotiations may take place in the real world or whatever I don't know them.

Unfortunately, I don't know the answer to Radii's question, as I only play Be A Pro mode.

I have my own question, though... is anyone up for posting their most current sliders?

Be a GM question... if I'm reading the in game help right it says there's a one week period at the end of the season to negotiate contracts with your players, is that correct or am I insane?

I'm playing as Carolina and want to lock up Cam Ward ASAP, for example, am i really waiting til the end of the year to get my shot at doing that?

edit: I'm a total novice to the NHL, so if there are rules about when negotiations may take place in the real world or whatever I don't know them.

Yea, you're really waiting until the end of the year. But if you offer what they ask, they'll pretty much stay unless you sucked that season or didn't play them. But throwing a little more $ at them usually solves that problem.

Unfortunately, I don't know the answer to Radii's question, as I only play Be A Pro mode.

I have my own question, though... is anyone up for posting their most current sliders?

Yeah, I can post my updated ones when I get home, but I know they're pretty close to what Flyermania's posted on the NHL10 OS Boards:


OK, here is what I have been using with some pretty good & realistic results. Some things (faceoffs, fighting, etc.) should be adjusted to your own personal preferences...hopefully you'll like them or they will be a good starting point for your personalized tweaks!

I use All-Star at this point, but these should work well on any skill level.

All-Star
12 minute periods
Penalties - 6
Penalty scaling - 1
Fighting - 3

(First number is human slider, second number is CPU)

Basic
Tuner - latest
CPU Aid - Hardcore
Game Speed - 1
Attribute Effects - 6
Fatigue Effect - 5/5
Fatigue Recovery - 1/1
Injury Occurrence - 3/3
Puck Control - 0/0
Player Acceleration - 2/2

AI
AI Learning - 6
CPU Difficulty - 3 (increase for more of a challenge)
CPU Faceoff Difficulty - 3
Fight Difficulty - 3
CPU Penalties - 6
CPU Teammate Penalties - 6

Passing
Pass Assist - 3
Manual Passing - off
Pass Speed - 2
Saucer Pass Speed - 3
Pass Accuracy - 2/0
Pass Interception - 6/6

Shooting
Shot Accuracy - 3/3
Shot Power - 6/5
Slap Shot Accuracy - 3/3
Slap Shot Power - 6/5
One Timer Accuracy - 3/3

Checking
Hit Difficulty - 6
Aggression - 6/6
Hit Power - 1/1
Stick Lift Efficiency - 3/3
Poke Effectiveness - 4/4

Goalies
Goalie Passing - 0
Goalie Cover Puck Frequency - 6
Goalie Screen Effectiveness - 6/6
Goalie Reaction Speed - 3/0

I know I've changed a couple of these for myself to make it harder, such as upping the CPU Goalie Reaction Speed to 3 (which I might lower again after scoring 1 goal on 65 shots in 2 games). I think these sliders result in a good game.

Be a GM question... if I'm reading the in game help right it says there's a one week period at the end of the season to negotiate contracts with your players, is that correct or am I insane?

I'm playing as Carolina and want to lock up Cam Ward ASAP, for example, am i really waiting til the end of the year to get my shot at doing that?

edit: I'm a total novice to the NHL, so if there are rules about when negotiations may take place in the real world or whatever I don't know them.

Yeah, you can only only resign at the end of June, which isn't realistic at all (the actual rule is that you can extend a player's contract within the final year of his current deal). My guess is that the AI does some sort of comparison at the end of the year to determine what each player is worth to resign.

The new patch is out!

NHL 10 Patch Available, Post Impressions Here - Operation Sports Forums (http://www.operationsports.com/forums/ea-sports-nhl/372049-nhl-10-patch-available-post-impressions-here.html)

Is there a FOFC PS3 Eashl club?

Anyone try NHL 2k10? I don't follow the hockey games as much and I know this game isn't what it used to be. For all of the great strides the EA game has made, there are still too many stupid things in franchise mode that I can't look past:

Never using healthy scratches
Goalies can't get hurt unless you sim

A few other random stupid stuff I can't recall right now.

I'd love to hear what the FOFC consesus is on the 2k game.

2k's game is horrible.. just my opinion.. controls suck.

NHL 10's third jersey code: rwyhafwh6ekyjcmr

NHL 10 frustrates me from time to time, but it's right up there in my top 5.

Here is a replay in my be a GM of me blocking a shot into my goal!!

I love this game!

Tough bounce | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/15241161)

Here is a replay in my be a GM of me blocking a shot into my goal!!

I love this game!

Tough bounce | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/15241161)

Now that would tick me off! :p

Here is a replay in my be a GM of me blocking a shot into my goal!!

I love this game!

Tough bounce | EA SPORTS (http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/15241161)

Had a fun game vs you and those Bolts today. If you are around tomorrow, lets play again.

I suck in shootouts, but I got lucky!

Had a fun game vs you and those Bolts today. If you are around tomorrow, lets play again.

I suck in shootouts, but I got lucky!

sounds good! You have good use of those deke moves.

sounds good! You have good use of those deke moves.

Putting the puck in the net is another thing. :lol:

Thanks to seeing this thread, it got me back into playing a bit. I haven't played this version nearly as much as last year's though. I actually just played my 2nd and 3rd online game (as a skater) today with this year's and first time in months.

Unfortunately in game 2 I ran into a major jackass. We lost a 3-2 game with the last goal being scored late in the game (through no fault of mine which is even more puzzling) and suddenly this idiot starts messaging me all sorts of crap. What the hell?

Sorry, never ran into anything like that. How bad is someone's life that they need to take time out from what they are doing to send trash talking messages to a person that they don't know and have only played one game with?

Anyone try NHL 2k10? I don't follow the hockey games as much and I know this game isn't what it used to be. For all of the great strides the EA game has made, there are still too many stupid things in franchise mode that I can't look past:

Never using healthy scratches
Goalies can't get hurt unless you sim

A few other random stupid stuff I can't recall right now.

I'd love to hear what the FOFC consesus is on the 2k game.

2k10 depends very much upon the system you have, on PS3 and XBox EA is the way to go, I hear. On the Wii, 2k10 is pretty dang good.

l wish there was an online dynasty/league for this.

Anyone up for a couple games?

Anyone up for a couple games?

I'm around after 8pm tonight if anyone wants to play.

I'm around after 8pm tonight if anyone wants to play.

I can play around 10 or so

Good games Mike. I had you the first few and you got me our last game. By the way, I promise you that I didn't quit after your first goal. I actually thought you did. :confused: I of course will always spot you that goal. :)

Just had a funny/sad moment on Xbox live along similar lines. Start playing some random dude. He gets a goal and starts screaming "PUSSSSY" into the headset. I proceed to go up 4-1 and he quits.

I'm typically used to things like this, but tonight I was feel a little more confrontational than usual plus the whole "pussy" thing was quite ironic. I sent him a message saying something along the lines of "I'm a pussy, but you quit?" kind of thing. He says "BCuz 2 of ur goals wer lukky fa****."

I tell him that I'd be glad to play him again. He accepts. I go up 3-0 and of course, he quits again by turning off his XBox. Sweet, sweet victory, but it's sad that people can't accept defeat.

Anyone up for a late night game? Hit me up.

Roster and tuner are out!

Good games Mike. I had you the first few and you got me our last game. By the way, I promise you that I didn't quit after your first goal. I actually thought you did. :confused: I of course will always spot you that goal. :)

Just had a funny/sad moment on Xbox live along similar lines. Start playing some random dude. He gets a goal and starts screaming "PUSSSSY" into the headset. I proceed to go up 4-1 and he quits.

I'm typically used to things like this, but tonight I was feel a little more confrontational than usual plus the whole "pussy" thing was quite ironic. I sent him a message saying something along the lines of "I'm a pussy, but you quit?" kind of thing. He says "BCuz 2 of ur goals wer lukky fa****."

I tell him that I'd be glad to play him again. He accepts. I go up 3-0 and of course, he quits again by turning off his XBox. Sweet, sweet victory, but it's sad that people can't accept defeat.

Good thing you pulled the goalie or it might have taken the whole game for me to score!

online is so much faster than my sliders are!

Good games Mike. I had you the first few and you got me our last game. By the way, I promise you that I didn't quit after your first goal. I actually thought you did. :confused: I of course will always spot you that goal. :)

Just had a funny/sad moment on Xbox live along similar lines. Start playing some random dude. He gets a goal and starts screaming "PUSSSSY" into the headset. I proceed to go up 4-1 and he quits.

I'm typically used to things like this, but tonight I was feel a little more confrontational than usual plus the whole "pussy" thing was quite ironic. I sent him a message saying something along the lines of "I'm a pussy, but you quit?" kind of thing. He says "BCuz 2 of ur goals wer lukky fa****."

I tell him that I'd be glad to play him again. He accepts. I go up 3-0 and of course, he quits again by turning off his XBox. Sweet, sweet victory, but it's sad that people can't accept defeat.

You should have sent him a message after the second time that simply read "Pussy."

Finally have this game coming (ps3) from Goozex. See MR posted new tuner and rosters are out and have been looking over threads at OS. Any suggestions for starting level, EA rosters or user made, sliders?

FWIW I have played before with NHL08 so not totally new to the game. Prefer 10 minute or less periods and while I want stats to be accurate I'm not anal about it in a hockey game. Was able to do this with 08 and had a lot of fun with the game.

Thanks.

Start on Pro, default sliders, 10 min periods.. the EA roster is great, imho.

Start on Pro, default sliders, 10 min periods.. the EA roster is great, imho.

thanks

Then play me Sweed! :)

Too bad you have an MBBF.. I mean a ps3.

So I got this yesterday. I started my Be a Pro this morning and was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Three games in and we are 3-0.

So I got this yesterday. I started my Be a Pro this morning and was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Three games in and we are 3-0.
But you're with the Marlies, not the Leafs... right?

But you're with the Marlies, not the Leafs... right?

No, I played well enough in the Juniors game for them to keep me on the team and see what I could do. I have 1 goal and 1 assist (2 points) in my first three games, playing Pro level (haven't really played NHL since NHL 94 on my Sega).

No, I played well enough in the Juniors game for them to keep me on the team and see what I could do. I have 1 goal and 1 assist (2 points) in my first three games, playing Pro level (haven't really played NHL since NHL 94 on my Sega).
The Leafs 3-0??? Impossible!

Game anyone?

The Leafs 3-0??? Impossible!

I know, I was really dreading going to the Leafs...

Got my game in the mail today and fired it up tonight. Played as Minnesota in a play now vs Montreal. God this game is gorgeous! Lost 3-0. 10 minute periods, default pro, auto aim shots, newest roster, and tuner. The new board play will take a little getting used to. The rest I think will come with more game time. Had a few good opportunities to score. Most failed as I wound up taking the shot to quick. One more pass across the net, I think, would have gotten me a couple of goals. Those should come with time.

Did a quick look through franchise and it sure looks deep. Maybe not EHM deep but for a console it looked impressive. Seeing it made me think it might be a good buy for PC. The ability to do some modding and of course get print-outs etc instead of having to look at the limited views that consoles give you. Just like other console sports titles NHL does a piss poor job of using wide-screen tv real estate. For God's sake when will one of these games put 12+ columns of stats\ratings across my screen and quit with the damn side to side scrolling? Sorry, pet peeve of mine:) Anyone playing franchise? Is it a headache or fun?

Watching the game tonight has me jonesing to start playing this again. Any suggestions on changes/slider sets with the latest tuning set?

*sigh* i wish they had this game for PC

EF,

I play on Pro defaults and it's been great.

EF,

I play on Pro defaults and it's been great.

Game Style of Default or Hardcore? About to get back into the game after not playing for a few months.

I like default.. and I also like the speed of the game on all defaults.. most like to slow it down, so keep that in mind.

I played on Pro defaults for many games and just moved up - but the new tuner is excellent!!! There are a lot of missed passes, puck taking odd bounces, etc... but if you struggle, go down to Pro or check OS for some really good sliders. I'm just a "default" type of player..

Thanks, Todd. IIRC, my biggest issue with the game before was that the AI defense was too passive on lower difficulty levels and I didn't enjoy playing the higher difficulty levels. Perhaps, it is because I was rusty, but the defense didn't feel passive this 1st game at all. They were poke checking very well and drilled my guys a few times and generally played well. Shots and Time of Attack were relatively even without default sliders. Fun game that was a 4-2 win for my Flyers over the Islanders with an empty net goal to give the final margin.

I recently changed and turned auto back skate off and it has made a huge change. lt gives so much more control over my skater, also makes defense harder as my skater doesnt always face the offensive players.

Hit me up for a game sometime!

Will do!

I just evened up the series with Vancouer at 2-2 with a 3-0 shutout at home!

Back to Vancouver!

Having a blast playing this. Using Minnesota in BAGM with this slider set bostongahden's All-Star Sliders for V1.03 - Operation Sports Forums (http://www.operationsports.com/forums/ea-sports-nhl-sliders/393211-bostongahdens-all-star-sliders-v1-03-a.html) I found at OS. They probably favor the human a bit but that's ok cause I'm not that good. Sorry MR, just to fast on default plus as a hockey novice (like to watch but not an x's and o's guy) I'm not good enough. Now 4-5-1 taking my first home loss.

I did add this sound mod TNKNGM & Jokah NHL Music Pack - OPENING NIGHT EDITION - Operation Sports Forums (http://www.operationsports.com/forums/ea-sports-nhl/364008-tnkngm-jokah-nhl-music-pack-opening-night-edition.html) I found at OS. Pretty easy to do on ps3 with flash drive. 360 looks like a little more work. Pack includes..

ALBUM NAMES ARE IN RED
Introduction Music-(INTRO) (All 30 Teams -30 Songs)
Goal Music-(GOAL)(19 Songs - some teams use same song)
Break In Play "Offplay" - (OFFPLAY) (270 Songs)
Penalty Home (PEN-HOME) (22 Songs)
Penalty Away (PEN-AWAY) (31 Songs)
Intermission (INTERMISSION) (43 Songs)
Team Victory(VICTORY) (16 Songs - Don't have all teams)
Stanley Cup Celebration (STANLEY CUP) (1 Song)
Away Team Goals (AWAY GOAL) (22 Songs)

Sound great and add a ton of atmosphere to the game.

I did my own sound pack.. and I really love hearing my intro song (Down with the sickness) and my penalty song (bodies) and of course my goal song (sound of madness) - and when we win it's (Eyesore) :)

I mix a little rap and what not for the in game and menu songs... really adds to the immersion when I get to play with the surround sound on!

There is no sports game in my history of gaming that gives me a feeling like playing a home playoff game with my fans waving towels, my music pumping through my speakers and the commentators telling me this game is a must win if I want to head back to Vancouver tied at 2 games a piece.

Tomorrow the Canuck fans will be just as loud though and Vancouver will be out for blood.. can we hold them off?

In "Be a GM" mode, is there any way to tell how tired a goalie is and when he needs to be rested for a game or two? Also, anyone can recommend any good trades for my Flyers to upgrade at Goalie? Neither guy I have is getting it done.

In "Be a GM" mode, is there any way to tell how tired a goalie is and when he needs to be rested for a game or two? Also, anyone can recommend any good trades for my Flyers to upgrade at Goalie? Neither guy I have is getting it done.

Ryan Miller

:)

Ryan Miller

:)

I tried to get him. They didn't seem to want to give him for anything I was willing to offer. Maybe if I trade Carter or Richards I can pull that off, but I don't want to trade either if I can help it.

Then again, he might be one of the few guys I'm willing to give them up for :)

Dola -

When I tried to offer Pronger for Miller straight up, I loved the reply. "Let's be honest here, if you were the GM of Buffalo, would you say yes to this deal? You aren't offering us enough in return."

Edit to add: The replies are humorous. I tried offering Carter straight up and he said, "I'd be run out of Buffalo if I accepted this deal."

2nd edit: I really like that FA's will analyze how likely they are to get ice time with your team and reject offers as a result. Although, you would think that guys during the middle of the season would just be happy to get a paycheck. Still, this is a nice element for a console game.