To not to mix nhl09 and nhl2k9 info in one thread, i just decided to create this one. All the sudden i have changed my mind from not following the game development to have preordered it and to have a grade of excitement like only some games have created on me.

There is only a reason for this and it is named "Be a pro" mode. Be a pro mode is the superstar version in the FIFA soccer series and it's now comming to NHL.

I love the mode in the FIFA/UEFA series, as you can play both offline only controlling your payer or online with other human players making it a MMO.

As an adult with an absorving job and a 9 months old baby, i have an issue with console playing time. I play one day 3 hours, two days later 30 minutes, and 5 days later 2 hours. So it's pretty hard to me to play long dynasties, as i lose the focus and forget what i was doing before. But the new superstart/be a pro/etc modes in sport games from EA or MLB the show, are making me to enjoy games as i have not for a long time. I guess it's my impossible dream of becoming a real sports player that is made true for a few hours with those 1st person modes where i control only my alter ego, both in the field and also off the field with contracts negotaitions etc.

Can't wait to create a grinder and to to to break as much ribs as possible :D

Here is info about the Offline mode in NHL09:


NHL 09 (http://ps3.ign.com/objects/142/14230951.html)'s starts you off with the creation of your would-be legend. You begin on an AHL club and must prove your worth before working your way into the big time. This will take longer for some than others, but you'll eventually land a spot on a pro squad. As you continue through your years you'll witness the new dynamic skill progression, also featured in NHL 09's dynasty mode. You're given a letter grade at the end of every game (and every time you go to the bench) that assesses your skills for offense, defense and athleticism. Developers on-hand said that athleticism will try and gauge the intangibles and more finite pieces of your play. Whatever that means.

Not only will you get a typical letter grade, but your coach will also provide hundreds of insights (not all at once) about the quality of your play. Of course the term "quality" differs depending on your role. Upon creating your virtual representation you'll need to pick out a role for him to embody. He can be a sniper, a grinder, or a playmaker, as well as a few others. Play selfishly and try to create opportunities for only your fledging playmaker and your coach will quickly tell you to change your ways. Do so and reap the rewards later on. Once the final whistle blows, you'll see a massive breakdown of attributes. From your abilities with the puck to awareness without it to a number of other categories that extend even further than what we're used to from Madden.

As you continue to excel through your career you'll hopefully be working your way towards the status of legend. Different milestones like making an all-star game, winning an MVP and making it to the playoffs will push you closer to your goal. Things like being able to create your specialized Upper Deck card that will have a different value depending on where you are in your career -- a card that can then be traded online -- only extends the life of Be A Pro.

ther little trinkets that are sure to please the rabid puck-heads of the world include the addition of a large array of equipment to pimp out your player. Among the most notable are 20 different helmet variations, including the mask worn by Jason in Friday the 13th and the one worn by Wayne "The Great One" Gretzky. Of course if you don't want to play with a helmet, you can always pick the Canadians Legends team. Those boys know how to hit.

NHL 09 looks and feels well on its way to improving on the solid foundation built by the previous game. Be A Pro should please fans of the sport as it goes beyond the mode that we've seen from titles like NCAA Football. It's more intimate and there seems to be a bit more at your disposal at any one time on the ice. Toss in a secret online mode that has "never been seen in a sports game before" and you can consider my interest piqued.


And here is info about the online MMO mode:


<script language="JavaScript" src="http://ads.ign.com/advertisers/DartRichMedia_1_03/DartRichMedia_1_03.js"></script>Playing sports games online has always been the same deal: one-on-one, each player controls all of the players on their given team. EA Sports, specifically its Vancouver branch, is changing that classic paradigm by delivering what they're calling sports gaming's first Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) mode, branded as EA Sports Hockey League in NHL 09 (http://ps3.ign.com/objects/142/14230951.html).

And no, you won't be leveling up your tree elf or designing the interior of your player's apartment. Hockey League takes the popular acronym and simplifies it to fit within the framework of a sports game.

Using a similar camera angle as we've seen from the Superstar and Captain Your Country modes of other EA Sports properties, players control only one player on the ice. Your five teammates are controlled by other players located around the globe, making for the first true six-on-six hockey experience.

I recently got the chance to visit the massive Vancouver campus and was given the keys to an early build of EA Sports Hockey League and a group of willing participants from the EA development team. The result was some of the best hockey action this side of NHL '94.

The Hockey League is all about creating your own unique player and building their cred online by performing well in your selected role. Immediately upon booting up NHL 09 players will be told to create a player. The initial setup won't be as deep as what's offered later in Be A Pro mode, but it will get the basic height, weight and hair color out of the way. My customized player had already been setup for me, complete with blond hair and all.

For those starting from scratch, the next step would be picking a public team to join. To expedite the process I was already placed on the EA Canada team, along with five other players. Oh, and don't worry if you can't form an even team of six as the game only requires three human players per team. The rest can be controlled by the AI.

Assigning positions to our team seemed to be a bit of a free-for-all thanks to a "first-come, first-served" approach. The list of positions is presented and then players need only hit A (X on PS3) on their personal favorite to select it. There doesn't seem to be a system in place for the GM to override anyone's decision. Luckily I was able to nab the right wing spot before anyone else could jump on it.

One thing to note is that, throughout this entire process, the rest of the field wasn't looking at my gamertag, they were looking at my player's given name (in this case it was Nate Ahearn). EA Sports wants players to become renowned for their skills, even going as far as to offer a real EA Sports hockey trophy to the top team with a ceremony to be held at next season's all-star game (exact details to follow). GMs will also be able to recruit players away using any negotiation tactics possible within the confines of a controller and a headset.

Having the ability to stand out from the crowd is important in the Hockey League as any given team can have up to 50 players on it. Different squads of six can break off and play simultaneously, but all of the team's stats are aggregated into one cozy list. Again, you only need three players to form a team, but the action shines the brightest when you're working with a full roster of human intelligence.

Once I actually got through the cool introductory cinematic that positioned the camera directly behind my character as he made his way out of the locker room and into his pre-game skate and warm up routine (a camera angle that is enjoyed by everyone in the game for their respective player). Every human player needs to hit a button to progress past the different cutscenes throughout the game to ensure that everyone stays in sync.

As soon as the puck dropped I could immediately tell that those who played the closest to real hockey would have the best chance at winning. At first I practiced my skating by following the puck like a toddler who just saw his first lollipop. There is a togglable blue arrow that points you back into position, but there's nothing forcing you to follow it. This strategy proved to be pretty worthless for the betterment of my team.

Setting up an offense was mostly about positioning our defensive players properly in the back of our set but ahead of the blue line. Working the puck around with one man acting as a shield directly in front of the goalie proved to be the best way for us to be successful in a non-fast break situation. Luckily there was plenty of running and gunning for those who like that style of play.

NHL 09 (http://ps3.ign.com/objects/142/14230951.html) comes complete with a play creator tool which allows for some designed breaks started by the new flip dump passing mechanic. Well, in the Hockey League there's no need to design the play, you simply communicate to your teammates that you're about to dump it into the opponent's zone and tell them to streak down the ice.

We were able to create some great two-on-one situations that resulted in lots of shouting throughout the office. The goalies, both of which are human controlled, possess the ability to do a desperation move which sends them flying to the other side of the net if they get duped by a deke. My team's goalie was a bit too enamored with the move and wound up doing it in some questionable situations. The rest of my team was quick to let him know of his mistake with the kindness that only playing online can bring.

My games contained lots of yelling and team camaraderie when things went our way. Despite the fact that I was playing NHL 09's Hockey League in the optimum condition for an online match, the potential for the mode to work in the jungle of the multiplayer world was clearly there. When everyone played their positions properly, there was an awesome feeling of synergy that coursed through the ice. Everyone knew what they were doing and where they were supposed to be and when that happened we were able to come extremely close to the genuine article.

Hockey League features a similar stat tracking system to what Be A Pro offers. At the end of every contest you'll be graded in three categories: Position Score, Team Play, and Stats. Players will need to stay in the confines of their player type (I was a sniper, so the fact that I didn't score any goals in my first game didn't sit well with my coach) in order to earn the highest marks. All of this is in an effort to become a Legend by completing 150 online games with an A- average in the three aforementioned categories.

It's interesting to note that your ratings and attributes in the Hockey League do not carry over to the offline Be A Pro mode. Both are kept separate, likely in an effort to extend the life of the final game as much as possible.

NHL 09 impressed me when I saw it a few months ago and now that I've gotten my hands on the EA Sports Hockey League, I feel a little sorry for the competition. The feeling of playing true six-on-six hockey is fantastic if you can find the right group of players who understand the game and the stability of our game held strong despite being run on a server clear across the country.

The only wrench that could stop this from being the next big thing in sports videogames is the online community not grabbing hold and embracing it. Barring that, NHL 09 could very well be a sign of things to come in gaming.

I can say without question that this is my most anticipated EA Sports release in at least 5 years (and that's obviously saying something as you all well know). They're lining up some great stuff for this game. The MMO idea is borrowed from a few PC franchises, but hasn't been tried on the console up to this point. A superstar mode is also a welcome addition.

I haven't played the NHL series in several years but am pretty excited to try out the new hockey "Be a Pro" mode. I thought they did a good job with it in FIFA 08 and am hoping NHL will be even better.

Sami, you did yourself a great disservice by not picking up NHL 08 last year. It's a great game.

Sami, you did yourself a great disservice by not picking up NHL 08 last year. It's a great game.

I don't own a next-gen console. I only play PS3 games at my buddy's house. He only bought 2K8 last year but I've been telling him about NHL09 and now he might buy both. I'll buy a PS3 some day. :D

NHL '08 really wasn't necessarily consistently realistic, but it was fun. I'm looking forward to this one as well.

That be a pro mode actually sounds like it could be fun.

Be a pro mode will get me to purchase this game for sure.. plus my neighbor loves the EA NHL series for head to head.

I'll have both hockey games again this year. :)

EA SPORTS : NHL 09 : Blogs (http://www.easports.com/nhl09/blog.jsp)

After reading the blog and watching these videos, I'm dropping $120 for my hockey game fix again this year.

Both games look great!

I got NHL 08, and for some reason it just didn't take for me. I can't remember what it was, but I did get a lot of playtime out of it before frustration took over.

I'll probably give NHL 09 a shot. I tried a few NHL 2kX games after 2k4, and the gameplay has taken a nosedive.

And I am tempted to get FIFA just from the "be a pro" mode. I loved the similar mode for NCAA 08 (Madden 08's "be a pro" mode was terrible and I haven't tried it on 09, but I doubt it's changed).

I preordered NHL09 from Videogamesplus last week.. a must.. hope to have it within a few days of release since it has to be shipped from Canada, but well worth every day.. there are no console games that I've given more time than the NHL-games.. I think that my NHL-urge is similar to many of yours NCAA-urges.. the game simply lasts.

I care about realism, but not enough to NOT be able to enjoy an NHL 0X game.

I preordered NHL09 from Videogamesplus last week.. a must.. hope to have it within a few days of release since it has to be shipped from Canada, but well worth every day.. there are no console games that I've given more time than the NHL-games.. I think that my NHL-urge is similar to many of yours NCAA-urges.. the game simply lasts.

I care about realism, but not enough to NOT be able to enjoy an NHL 0X game.

I have preordered there too. I suggest you to email them and ask for DHL shipping (the option is not in their website when placing the order), it takes from 2 to 3 days to come to Spain that way, vs the 10 days for regular mail. You need to pay some extra $ (around 15 or so) and you can add up to 4 games in the packet for that price (perfect to buy some price drops games at under $30). Using DHL you can also track the pack at their website, less chances for it to be lost.

Nice video showing the kind of player you can chose to be when starting a be a pro career:

<embed src='http://videomedia.ign.com/ev/ev.swf' flashvars='object_ID=14230951&downloadURL=http://xbox360movies.ign.com/xbox360/video/article/902/902669/NHL09_BAP_SIZZLE_082508_flvlowwide.flv&allownetworking="all%"' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' width='433' height='360'></embed>

I wonder how hard it will be to play the goalie. If I get the game, that's probably what I'll try first.

Ps3 demo is out! i'm downloading it right now and will post impressions tomorrow as it's midnight here.

It seems to include both an standard game and also a be a pro mode game. Initial comments at OPS look so good.

http://www.operationsports.com/forums/ea-sports-nhl/265749-nhl-09-demo-impressions.html

Glad it includes the standard game!!

Hopefully the 360 demo is soon to follow!!!

This is the first time that I have been looking forward to a non-NCAA football EA game in quite some time. I used to love this series but got tired of it just being a roster and graphics update year after year as it never seemed to really get close to actual hockey.

I have been playing a bit of this and i must say i'm amazed at the "be a pro mode", in fact it will be the main reason for me to buy this game as i'm not that a hockey nut. Btw graphics are the best i have ever seen in an sports game in the Ps3 and the 60fps make a huge difference with 08.

In the demo, besides a 5 minutes 3th Q between the Penguins and the Red Wings that you can play in Pro or All Star level, you can also play as Penguins C Crosby or Red Wings LW Zetterberg in the be a pro mode.

The BAP mode is great, you control only that player with the camera behind you. You can chose an high camera to see more of the rink or a down camera to feel more that you are that player (but you don't' see the whole rink, making it harder to know what is going on at the other side of it). If you get out of position, a blue arrow points to where you should be positioned. after the game, you get a grade on Positioning, Team work and Stats and a couple of positive and negative phrases telling you what you did well of bad. The online mode MMO must be awesome with 6 vs 6 playing this way.

Playing C with Crosby was so hard for me as it's the center of the offense and you need be in position and moving a lot all the time, else your team mates can't find you. I played two games and had always an F+ rating on positioning and team work, i really sucked there.

Playing LW with Zetterberg was way easier for me as it's easier to be in position and i knew better my role. In the second game i played (pro level) i scored a goal to tie the game at 10 seconds to the end, and my team won the shutout 2-1 (i missed my penalty). My final rate was A on positioning, B+ on teamwork and A on stats and enjoyed every second of it.

One thing i noticed in the demo but i'm nut sure will be that way in the final game, is that in the AP mode, your line is always in the rink, you are never benched. I guess it's done to prevent you getting bored from watching the game from the bench but... i think it will be more realistic to get subbed in/out and to have line changes in the BAP mode like in the standard game.

I'm really really excited about this mode and as i said, the main reason for me to buy this game. You have a full 15 years career starting as rookie in the minor league ECHL? (sorry for my ignorance) and need to make your way to the HOF.

As you can notice i'm not a huge hockey fan or know a ton about it, but this game is so great and fun to play. Now i need to learn more about hockey and watch it more live :)

One thing i noticed in the demo but i'm nut sure will be that way in the final game, is that in the AP mode, your line is always in the rink, you are never benched. I guess it's done to prevent you getting bored from watching the game from the bench but... i think it will be more realistic to get subbed in/out and to have line changes in the BAP mode like in the standard game.

I haven't played the demo yet, but I'm guessing that fatigue is turned off in the demo, hence the reason you don't sub. When fatigue gets turned on, there's no way you'll be able to play the whole game.

I wonder if you sit on the bench then? I'm guessing so.. kind of cool I would think.

I wonder if you sit on the bench then? I'm guessing so.. kind of cool I would think.

Nice, found this info about it, seems perfect:

"Within Be a Pro mode are three different styles of play, allowing you to participate in the game as much or as little as you'd like.

The first mode has you play only when your character is on the ice, which is determined by the line changes; the game will skip to when your player is in the ice.

The second mode gives you the option to stay on the ice at all times. You'll be able to hit the bench whenever you like, but the action will keep going without you, and when you're ready, you can head back on whenever you'd like.

The third mode allows you to play a given position for the entire game. This means that even when your character goes off the ice, you'll still control whoever replaces him in that position."

I like that they give options, but I'd have loved to have seen a fourth option where you go out when your coach taps you, and come off when your shift is over (so maybe a little icon would appear showing that you're supposed to come off ASAP, and if you don't you get scolded or even benched or something).

I wonder if the Xbox or the PS3 version will be better, if it's on both consoles?

It's my understanding that they both run at 60 fps. Beyond that, the only difference I know of is that the 360 allows you to add your own soundtrack while the PS3 does not.

It's my understanding that they both run at 60 fps. Beyond that, the only difference I know of is that the 360 allows you to add your own soundtrack while the PS3 does not.

That should be the only difference this year with both games running at 60fps unlike past year.

Nice, found this info about it, seems perfect:

"Within Be a Pro mode are three different styles of play, allowing you to participate in the game as much or as little as you'd like.

The first mode has you play only when your character is on the ice, which is determined by the line changes; the game will skip to when your player is in the ice.

The second mode gives you the option to stay on the ice at all times. You'll be able to hit the bench whenever you like, but the action will keep going without you, and when you're ready, you can head back on whenever you'd like.

The third mode allows you to play a given position for the entire game. This means that even when your character goes off the ice, you'll still control whoever replaces him in that position."

Interesting..

The first mode has you play only when your character is on the ice, which is determined by the line changes; the game will skip to when your player is in the ice.

I'll probably use this mode if it's a "supersim" type thing as in NCAA. It it literally skips ahead...well, I'd like to know what's going on. I'll probably use the 3rd option in that case.

I'm playing the demo, and one thing I noticed during the Be a Pro mode... Osgood lets in some stupid goals. I've also seen this annoying goal where the goalie tries to bring the puck to himself, and then it goes in. :p

I seem to be able to play as Crosby a lot better than as Zetterberg.

Looking forward to giving this a shot.

I'm playing the demo, and one thing I noticed during the Be a Pro mode... Osgood lets in some stupid goals. I've also seen this annoying goal where the goalie tries to bring the puck to himself, and then it goes in. :p

I seem to be able to play as Crosby a lot better than as Zetterberg.

There is a bug related to GK's that as you said score in the own net a few times, specially in shootouts, but it's said to be fixed already in the producers blog.

There is a bug related to GK's that as you said score in the own net a few times, specially in shootouts, but it's said to be fixed already in the producers blog.

That's good news. In the two demo periods I played last night I saw two goals where the goalie knocked it in, plus one in a shootout. I wouldn't buy the game if the problem is still there.

IGN gave NHL 09 a 9.0!

hxxp://xbox360.ign.com/articles/908/908072p1.html

I'm wanting this game but I have bought a hell of a lot of games of late

Anybody get NHL 09 yet? I'm wondering since I pretty don't know a damn thing about hockey if I'll like this? The online BAP and EASHL has almost sold me to buy it though...

Comes out tomorrow I think.

I don't think it comes out until tomorrow. Have people seen it in stores already?

I don't think it comes out until tomorrow. Have people seen it in stores already?

Shipments should arrive at most retail stores by lunchtime today. It should be out on the shelves by mid-afternoon at the latest. If you don't see it by that time, just ask someone to check the backroom. It's likely there but just hasn't been put out yet.

I just called my local BB and they have it...

Interesting... I wonder if this is like HC 09 last week where the US stores got it a day ahead of Canada?

My local BB has it as well, and it's just killing me not to run over there right now. What does a cash crunch ever have to do with getting in the way of a game, right?

Gamestop ran a free overnight shipping special.. mine came about 2 hrs ago.. straight to my work.

My game as been shipped already from Canada, should get it next week.

Got it, playing now. Oh God. Amazing.

Got it, playing now. Oh God. Amazing.

Go play BAP online and tell me how it is :p

I called EBGames, they have it here as well! I'll be playing sometime later tonight! Woot!

I had a lot of fun with the demo... I am so tempted to buy this.

F' it - let's just all get the game so we can get a EASHL team together ;)

I'll get it this weekend.

I am doing offline BAP for now .. My coach is livid at me though because in my debut I got the dreaded three fight game misconduct midway through the second period.

I swear I was just trying to set the tone.

I have a team in the online mode if any of you want in just let me know your gamertag(360) and I'll send you an invite.

Dammit am I the only one that'll get this for the PS3?

Oh bullshit. They scored on my line in the second game, and I was benched for it. I hate life.

I have a team in the online mode if any of you want in just let me know your gamertag(360) and I'll send you an invite.

DeToxRox

Oh fuck this. I am riding the pine still. One shift the entire first period. Time to demand a trade.

Based on two hours of play this is my favorite console sports game ever. I am a hockey nut so obviously it holds preference but this is incredible.

Oh fuck this. I am riding the pine still. One shift the entire first period. Time to demand a trade.

Are you playing offense for the NJ Devils? You have to remember they only score 1 goal a game.

YES! Fuck you Brad Ference. One punch KO.

Are you playing offense for the NJ Devils? You have to remember they only score 1 goal a game.

I am playing for the Caps so I can ride AO's coattails.

I have a team in the online mode if any of you want in just let me know your gamertag(360) and I'll send you an invite.

I'll most likely buy this after work and be on tonight - I'm going to suck 'cause I haven't played a hockey game since - oh about 1999. So if you want a rook on your team my gamertag is Pronk32.

Are you playing offense for the NJ Devils? You have to remember they only score 1 goal a game.
I'm going to drive past your house tonight around 6:45. As I pass, please kiss my ass. Then I'll back up and you can kiss it again. kthxbye

DeToxRox, how does it work when you're on the bench? Do you watch the action going on, or is it like a supersim mode?

Dammit am I the only one that'll get this for the PS3?

I'm sure MBBF will get it, he'll be using the Kansas City Predators so just look for them :D

I'm going to drive past your house tonight around 6:45. As I pass, please kiss my ass. Then I'll back up and you can kiss it again. kthxbye

DeToxRox, how does it work when you're on the bench? Do you watch the action going on, or is it like a supersim mode?

There are options where you can sim to you're back out, but I dunno how to do it yet. Frankly I like watching from the bench because you hit X and try calling for your own line changes.

I'm sure MBBF will get it, he'll be using the Kansas City Predators so just look for them :D

I thought it was the Pens?

I thought it was the Pens?

You're probably right, I'm pretty scatter-brained over the thought of playing left wing for the Rangers tonight.

I'll most likely buy this after work and be on tonight - I'm going to suck 'cause I haven't played a hockey game since - oh about 1999. So if you want a rook on your team my gamertag is Pronk32.



Not a problem most of the guys that are going to be playing will be rookies, so you'll fit right in. I'll send you an invite as soon as you create your guy.

DeToxRox your invite was sent.

I thought it was the Pens?

Just for the record, I'm a Sharks fan and have been since their inception. A team in KC would obviously cause me to consider some form of legal adoption as my co-favorite. :)

Not a problem most of the guys that are going to be playing will be rookies, so you'll fit right in. I'll send you an invite as soon as you create your guy.

DeToxRox your invite was sent.

What position do you think I should play? I take it goalie would be pretty hard learning curve, eh?

Dammit am I the only one that'll get this for the PS3?

No, i'n getting it for the Ps3 too, but we will be a minority here, probably not enough to start our own online BAP team.

I'm messing around with different BAP's. Trying the goaler now. Brings backs memories.

What position do you think I should play? I take it goalie would be pretty hard learning curve, eh?

I'm not sure, I'm doing a couple test games now with another novice to see what he can do.

I'm fairly comfortable at any position, though I like D most I believe.

I think I'd like to play as a defenseman, although I'm not sure if I'd rather be an offensive defenseman or a "stay at home" type. Of course, if I play for the Devils in the game, I don't think they even bother with offensive defensemen anymore, so it doesn't matter.

DeToxRox, you say you're playing on the Capitals? I take it that starting in the AHL is just an option, but you can start in the NHL if you want to? Personally, I think I'd rather start with the Lowell Devils and work my way up, but that decision won't be made until the last possible second.

I was so thinking about waiting to buy this game, but I think I might have to get it tonight.

I think I'd like to play as a defenseman, although I'm not sure if I'd rather be an offensive defenseman or a "stay at home" type. Of course, if I play for the Devils in the game, I don't think they even bother with offensive defensemen anymore, so it doesn't matter.

DeToxRox, you say you're playing on the Capitals? I take it that starting in the AHL is just an option, but you can start in the NHL if you want to? Personally, I think I'd rather start with the Lowell Devils and work my way up, but that decision won't be made until the last possible second.

I was so thinking about waiting to buy this game, but I think I might have to get it tonight.

No you start in the A, I was just sayin' I used the Caps as my pro team.

No you start in the A, I was just sayin' I used the Caps as my pro team.
I WANT TO KISS YOU!

If there's interest on the PS3 side to get a team going, I'd like in.

I don't own the game, but was planning on getting it sometime. So I'll echo that if people want to start a team on the PS3, I'd be in too.

Looks like I'll be picking the game up tonight.

My xbox gamertag is (surprisingly) heybrad

Looks like I'll be picking the game up tonight.

My xbox gamertag is (surprisingly) heybrad

Hey Brad

I picked it up from a local Toys R Us at lunch...so yah, if anyone is up for starting a PS3 team, I am in as well...

Dammit am I the only one that'll get this for the PS3?
I might. We'll see.

What's the FOFC team name? (Xbox360)

Just got home with the game. Hoping to play tonight!

Pumpy I'll send you an invite as soon as I see you get on.

CleBrownsfan: you have to go into the player hub from the main menu to get to your "inbox" to accept the invite.

Stopped by Gamestop on the way home just to see and YES!!!! After just a few games I have to say this may be my favorite EA game of all time!!!

Just three games into my career as a power forward right winger with 2 goals and an assist, I love the way they handle the line changes and let you watch the game (glad it wasn't an instant jump ahead). Actually enough into the game that I was pumped when my team took a 1-0 lead while I was on the bench in the first game. Still getting used to paying defense though as I was so used to what used to be the arcade like quality of past NHL games.

For anyone who doesn't have it yet, GO GET IT!!!

NHL 09: Tyson Callahan - From Scags to Riches - Front Office Football Central (http://operationsports.com/fofc/showthread.php?t=67600)

My BAP dynasty for all

Pumpy I'll send you an invite as soon as I see you get on.

CleBrownsfan: you have to go into the player hub from the main menu to get to your "inbox" to accept the invite.

got it - for not playing a hockey game in a long ass time I'm not to bad ;)

Got it today.. really been enjoying it.

Think I'll try some BAP tonight!

I'm typing this from the penalty box in online team play. Just had my second fight vs the same asshole. It's 1-1 between us. Hopefully we get round three.

I am sure people are on pins and needles knowing if I had a third fight?

Answer: Yes .. and I won!

So what if we lost 3-0?

I accepted the team invite. How do I know if an online team game is being played?

I accepted the team invite. How do I know if an online team game is being played?

Go to the dressing room to see if people are going to be playing. Otherwise you may wanna message the guys on the team on XBL. I'll be playing around midnight est, maybe 12:30 if interested.

I love goalie.

Online BAP - it there XP points you get like the offline version of BAP?

Online BAP - it there XP points you get like the offline version of BAP?

Yeah. If you look at the cards(located in performance tracker) you can see what you need to do to improve. Each card gives you a few points to use.

Can I get an invite for the 360 team??

gamertag: yacovfb

Anyone wanna get a team game going around 12:15 est?

Can I get an invite for the 360 team??

gamertag: yacovfb

sent

Anyone wanna get a team game going around 12:15 est?

I'd be up for that

I'd be up for that

I'll be in the dressing room around 12:15.

I'll be in the dressing room around 12:15.

Sounds good. Quick question for anyone who knows...when looking at the club members, it's not showing a player name for me (and a few others) even though I have created a BAP guy on my system. Will it show up as my name once I've played one game or is there something else I have to do?

Sounds good. Quick question for anyone who knows...when looking at the club members, it's not showing a player name for me (and a few others) even though I have created a BAP guy on my system. Will it show up as my name once I've played one game or is there something else I have to do?

Yeah it shows up after.

I'll be there at 12:15. I took a crack at a quick online team game and I sucked.

i wont be there until 12:30 prolly, I have to finish an assignment online before I play and I have like 15 minutes work left max. You guys can start without me and I'll jump in for the next one.

I just played a bunch of solo BAP as an offensive defenseman. It's pretty neat, but I can't for the life of me figure out how I'm going to get my 14 assists that the coach says I need this year. So far I have a grand total of 0 in 9 games.

I also kind of miss getting to control every player. I really really like the fact that I get to customize my stick, helmet, skates, etc. That is fantastic!

Played in 2 BAP games online in the community team play thingy...very, very cool. Got 3rd star in both games (1 G, 1 G/1A). Can't wait to start playing games that count...hopefully it'll find a match next time I try.

Played in 2 BAP games online in the community team play thingy...very, very cool. Got 3rd star in both games (1 G, 1 G/1A). Can't wait to start playing games that count...hopefully it'll find a match next time I try.

So what's out record now? I played two games online and we got shut out both games :mad:

I think we were 6-6 after those two games...

BAP is excellent.. but c'mon Detox.. fighting in this game is HORRIBLE.

Fighting is laughable bad...

Fighting is pretty awful but compared to last year at least it makes a little more sense.

I bought the PS3 version over lunch...

Voo and I are playing awesome today. 2-0 on the day. I moved up to forward and have been raking.

Everyone who wants to play on this team post your XBL name and we'll invite. Let's try getting some 6 on 6 tonight.

Code Baboon

Hey bastards, get a PS3!!

For those playing, can somebody verify if the online and offline BAP players rank up independently of each other or does playing one affect the other? I'm assuming that the base player you create is used for both but that each then improves on it's own route after that, but I can't find anything online that says one way or the other.

For those playing, can somebody verify if the online and offline BAP players rank up independently of each other or does playing one affect the other? I'm assuming that the base player you create is used for both but that each then improves on it's own route after that, but I can't find anything online that says one way or the other.

Yeah when you view your progression it has online and offline.

Hmm, all the raving has convinced me. I'll be picking this up either tonight or sometime this weekend. I think I'll go PS3, so count me in for a PS3 team. Also count me as a terrible player who knows next to nothing about hockey.

Yeah when you view your progression it has online and offline.

Beauty, thanks

Can you also play BAP mode as a single player career?

Can you also play BAP mode as a single player career?
Yes, you start in the AHL and try to work your way up.

To give an example, in my career, I'm a defenseman in the Devils system. The GM and coach have set four goals for me. The two most important goals are having a +/- of +14 or better, and getting 245 hits for the season. A medium goal is to take somewhere around 120 shots (I forget the exact number, but it's close to that). A "stretch" goal is picking up 24 points by season's end.

Right now, after 2 games, I'm doing fine in the hits category, but I have 0 points, 1 shot, and am at -6. :(

Do you play in 82-games seasons, or can you switch to 26-game and then the goals scale down too?

Right now, after 2 games, I'm doing fine in the hits category, but I have 0 points, 1 shot, and am at -6. :(

Nice job Colin White!

Well scored a goal in my first game in BAP. Lost both of my first two games though. Very cool game feature. I wondered if you can actually be traded from one team to another.

Anyone wanna play in the league?

I'm half nude in the dressing room if people wanna play

Do you play in 82-games seasons, or can you switch to 26-game and then the goals scale down too?
I didn't see an option to change the season length when I started my career.
Nice job Colin White!
I'd love to argue that point, but I can't. :(
Well scored a goal in my first game in BAP. Lost both of my first two games though. Very cool game feature. I wondered if you can actually be traded from one team to another.
I assume that you can. I think on the back of the game case (or maybe in the manual), there's a reference to possibly being traded if you don't perform well. Now, as for whether you can get traded for other reasons (improving the team, a deadline deal, etc.), I don't know.

I lied -- I'm doing my BAP offline but if you guys are gonna play shoot me a message and I'll be there in no time.

I don't think I'll be playing tonight. I'm going bowling and then I'll probably come home and go to bed. You never know, though!

Yeah. If you look at the cards(located in performance tracker) you can see what you need to do to improve. Each card gives you a few points to use.

I see the cards but I still don't see where you spend your points... I think I only see offline BAP upgrading...

Let's try again in the dressing room if people are interested.

What kind of game is this?

It's acting lame again trying to find a game but if a few people wanna jump in we can try again in like 5 minutes

Alright I'm back in for a little bit.

I'll be around later tonight.

Fuck it, I'll try again at Midnight, see people there.

I'll be there at midnight...hopefully it finds a game

I might be a few minutes, just finishing an episode of It's Always Sunny

I'm going to join the team, but I'm in Houston. I couldn't find the game yesterday and today everyone is freaking out about IKE. So, depending on the hurricane and the power situation you should see me ASAP.

I'm hopping on. Wouldn't mind getting a game in before bed.

Fun games guys. No shame in losing that last one 6-1. They are ranked #7 in division 1 and have their own team website. hxxp://www.xxdreamteamxx.com/index.html

Sweet, I'm playing on Pro difficulty and my defensive defenseman is leading the AHL in scoring so far after 6 games, and has a +10 or something like that.

Online wasn't connecting to EA for me last night, but is it possible to find random people to play with if we don't have enough FOFCers on the PS3?

Sweet, I'm playing on Pro difficulty and my defensive defenseman is leading the AHL in scoring so far after 6 games, and has a +10 or something like that.

Online wasn't connecting to EA for me last night, but is it possible to find random people to play with if we don't have enough FOFCers on the PS3?

There's teams with openings online if you want to find one. You just have to hunt around a bit to make sure you find a good one.

FYI....they're also organizing teams over at CheapAssGamer.com in the forums. There's some good people over there to play with as well.

Thanks PS3 buddy.

I don't have crap going on tonight and I'm ready... hit me up!

http://card.mygamercard.net/mizzourah0971.png

I'll be on tonight after the baby goes down.... I hope to score my first goal ;)

Any tips on offense? Like I said before I have not played a hockey game in a long long time - I have a real hard time scoring. I went to practice and out of 70 tires I scored 3 times - bla

Being called up to the NHL has sucked big time... 0-4 with the Oilers, and something like -8. Do their centres all suck at winning faceoffs?

Also, when playing Nashville... they appeared to have a female east Indian goalie??

Dola,

I guess there's no way to go online and just find a team to join eh? I'd have to find one on forums and then get them to invite me?

I got called up to the Rangers last night, got paired with Rosival on the 3rd blueline pairing and had a goal and 2 assists in my first pro game! So much fun!

MikeVic - how would I play with you if I wanted? Surprisingly enough, I'm "craigsca" on the PS network, or whatever it's called.

I can create an FOFC PS3 team if we have enough interest? I saw an option to create a team, and then I'm assuming I can invite you guys.

I hate this game!!! It has taken over all of my free time. ;)

It is still hard for me to get used to the fact it's not like all the arcade type hockey games in the past. I like that it's not; it's just that you get so used to playing in that style that I have to rethink my whole style.

The only thing that is irking me about this game so far is the lack of penalties.. and yes, I have the penalty slider maxed out.

Last game there was a total of 1 penalty.. and that's 1 more than last game. :(

The only thing that is irking me about this game so far is the lack of penalties.. and yes, I have the penalty slider maxed out.

Last game there was a total of 1 penalty.. and that's 1 more than last game. :(

Agreed...penalties are defintely lacking.

Agreed...penalties are defintely lacking.

I'm wondering what the exact proper number of penalties for an NHL game is? It seems that the number assigned by a referee, whether in reality or in a video game, is always too high or too low. Surely a statistician must have calculated the proper amount by now?

In my single player Be a Pro games, I'm the only one to get penalties. But when I was playing online team games with random people, there actually were multiple power plays. I think my team had four in one game...

Sweet!!! My power forward finally got a call up to the Flyers. After 41 games with the Phantoms and 23 goals scored I get to face the Maple Leafs in my NHL debut. We win 7-1 and I get number one start with a hat trick. Something tells me I am about to go through about 5 or 6 very tough games (every time I had a multiple goal game with the Phantoms I would have several straight games where I couldn't buy a goal).

Loving this game!!!

My first career game, got a hattrick, an assist, and +5. Then my game shuts down, and the red lights fill up my xbox. Go to restart, goes to the Microsoft loading screen, and red lights again. Restart it again after about 5 minutes, and it looks like it's working again. I shut it off and am too scared to turn it back on now. :(

I'd go buy a box and a mailing label.

Could I get an invite to the 360 team?

jpro21885

Could I get an invite to the 360 team?


Same here
Dr Sak

would love to get on a solid team. gamertag: mtf99

Sublime, Sak, msf518 and MizzouRah you all have invites, go to the player hub from the main menu to accept them.

Going to get myself setup online for the 360. I'll let everyone know my tag when I do as I would love to get into a team. If not tonight it probably won't be until middle to end of the week though.

Sublime, Sak, msf518 and MizzouRah you all have invites, go to the player hub from the main menu to accept them.

Sweet.. we playing tonight?

Sweet.. we playing tonight?

I'll be on for sure. If we're lucky we can get a full 6 tonight.

Tell me when and where I am in to play

My buddy and I might be playing shortly, so there are 2 guys

I'll be playing with a friend whos on the team as well right now till about 8 so if people wanna play send me a message and we'll go for a big show.

Let's organize a time to try and get 6 guys on together. I'm in for any time tonight basically.

I had a goal and 2 assists in my first game at RW for the Philadelphia Phantoms.

Let's organize a time to try and get 6 guys on together. I'm in for any time tonight basically.
I'd be up for a game anytime tonight...just message me on xbox live or post something here.

Just picked it up, and I suck, but I'll give it a go for an online game. Send me an invite. xbox jbeaulac

Not to be a wet blanket, as this mode you guys are playing in clearly sounds awesome...but how's the actual in-game AI?

I am gonna play after 11. Maybe 11:15 or 11:30, could be earlier tho.

Not to be a wet blanket, as this mode you guys are playing in clearly sounds awesome...but how's the actual in-game AI?

Dude, it has a customizable beer tent.... ;)

I can't find any kind of initial draft for the dynasty mode... is it not in the game?

Finally tried this last night... wow, this Be a Pro thing could get addictive.

I'm only three games in and so far I'm not very good (0 G, 1 A, 17 PIM) but it's a lot of fun. I'm a little concerned about the lack of scoring and penalties, but for some reason I have an easier time overlooking that for Be a Pro then I could in a normal game.

This feels like the future of sports games. EA is going to eat NHL2K's lunch this year.

Finally tried this last night... wow, this Be a Pro thing could get addictive.

I'm only three games in and so far I'm not very good (0 G, 1 A, 17 PIM) but it's a lot of fun. I'm a little concerned about the lack of scoring and penalties, but for some reason I have an easier time overlooking that for Be a Pro then I could in a normal game.

This feels like the future of sports games. EA is going to eat NHL2K's lunch this year.

I assume you're on the Leafs? If so I doubt you questioning the realisim when you aren't seeing a lot of scoring.

Hi guys, i'd appriciate some input..

I bought the game cos it got great reviews and whatnot, and its definetly great fun online, but... The single player be-a-pro, i mean, its totally possible i just suck but the thing feels fishy and just plain not fun.

I got a powerforward type RW. I've shot the puck towards the goal 188 times, and scored a total of 4 goals. And i've been playing the NHL series, i get pretty good results in normal games against the CPU and so on, so im saying i know how to shoot somewhat. That shit calculates to, what, a 3% success rate? Shooting blind with a real puck from middle field woudl propably top that. Also, i've had, no kidding, at least 25 shots deflect off the post.

I mean, is anyone else experiencing this stuff, or do i just suck or what?

Hi guys, i'd appriciate some input..

I bought the game cos it got great reviews and whatnot, and its definetly great fun online, but... The single player be-a-pro, i mean, its totally possible i just suck but the thing feels fishy and just plain not fun.

I got a powerforward type RW. I've shot the puck towards the goal 188 times, and scored a total of 4 goals. And i've been playing the NHL series, i get pretty good results in normal games against the CPU and so on, so im saying i know how to shoot somewhat. That shit calculates to, what, a 3% success rate? Shooting blind with a real puck from middle field woudl propably top that. Also, i've had, no kidding, at least 25 shots deflect off the post.

I mean, is anyone else experiencing this stuff, or do i just suck or what?

Not sure what your past hockey game experience is but there are several things that I noticed and had to get used to. One is that you have to play this like a hockey game and not like a fast paced pin ball game. The other is that when you play as b a pro positioning means everything. You really have to play that position as it would be played in real life and work for the shot. I had an initial reaction of a low shooting percentage then I started to change up my play style and actually passed more and shot less. I saved my shots for when they were high quality shots and the percentage went way up. Also I believe that stamina counts. The more you are on the ice the more tired you get and that seems to affect your play quite a bit.

After half a season in the AHL with a decent 23 goals in 41 games I am now actually over a goal a game since being called up. I get less play time and fewer shos but my team rating has gone way up and have only taken the quality shots.

That shit calculates to, what, a 3% success rate? Shooting blind with a real puck from middle field woudl propably top that.
So I'm getting Lou Lamoriello on the phone right now and telling him to buy a blindfold for Patrik Elias. That might help the guy.

Based on the reference to shooting the puck from middle field, i'm guessing epi just needs to play some more :)

But seriously, my Offensive Defenseman scores about every other game, and I've moved up to all-star difficulty. I do also hit a decent number of posts though, but whatever, it's exciting.

I assume you're on the Leafs? If so I doubt you questioning the realisim when you aren't seeing a lot of scoring.
But I'm not getting scored on either. WTF?

I've shot the puck towards the goal 188 times, and scored a total of 4 goals.
Welcome to FOFC, Jason Blake.

I checked last night, and I'm +15 with over a point per game as a defensive defenseman in the AHL... while I'm -10 with 5 points in 8 games with the Oilers. Boo.

Dola,

And playing the Avs in my 8th game, I crushed Ryan Smyth and put him out for 27 days. Took a screenshot and video of the awesome hit.

Anybody figure out how to embed their videos on here from the easportsworld site?

I tried a bit ago and ended up just getting a link on here from the code they provided on the site.

I've actually done better in the NHL than I did in the AHL. I think I had 7 goals and 1 assist with a +6 rating in 12 AHL games, yet I have 8 goals and 12 assists with a +22 rating in about 11-12 games in the NHL.

ML, I'm not sure what level you are playing on, but the computer really struggled to score against my teams on Pro, but they can put in a few on All-Star. I think they are just kind of inept on Pro.

I'm getting this for my birthday tomorrow. Can't wait! Been playing the demo non-stop.

I'm getting this for my birthday tomorrow. Can't wait! Been playing the demo non-stop.

Exactly. I can't remember the last game that I just went nuts with on just the demo. The real game is just as good.

Grrr i'm still waiting for the game to come from Canada. It should have been here past Monday but some misunderstanding delayed it. I just checked the courier website and it's alerady in Madrid so it should be in my hands later today or tomorrow. Can't wait to start my be a pro career.

I have also been playing the demo non stop and love it. On a side note, while waiting i have also been playing NHL07 in the PSP and i must admit i have not had as fun in a PSP game for a looong time. I'm 10-11-2 in my Panthers franchise and it's really addicitive. I have always the one more game urge as the max difficult level is perfect for me, i get realistic stats (besides hits number being too high), number of goals, etc while having great fun.

I highly recommend it if you have a PSP and no a lot of free time to play the big brother in the next gen console. As there were no 08 or 09 versions, 07 is the last one but there is a current roster set in some websites to download. It should be very cheap being 2 years old, i bought it second hand for $5.

Grrr i'm still waiting for the game to come from Canada. It should have been here past Monday but some misunderstanding delayed it. I just checked the courier website and it's alerady in Madrid so it should be in my hands later today or tomorrow. Can't wait to start my be a pro career.


I pre-ordered mine a month ago (like I mentioned here) from Videogamesplus, and got the game Monday, despite not ordering DHL or anything like that. You must have been unlucky :(.

I pre-ordered mine a month ago (like I mentioned here) from Videogamesplus, and got the game Monday, despite not ordering DHL or anything like that. You must have been unlucky :(.

It was mainly misunderstanding between videogamesplus and me. I asked for DHL shipping that is 3 days only for 10€ extra, the sent me the paypal link to pay those extra 10€, i did and then waited for the game. After 48 hours without the order status changing, i emailed them asking what was going on and they answered back that they were waiting for me to email them the paypal order id after paying. I did and they shipped the game on Monday as it was Friday already. I didn't know i had to email them the paypal order id as paypal itself already sends an email when you pay, so i waited stupidily 48 hours plus the weekend in between. Probably will get it tomorrow, can't wait!

Btw, we PS3 users should start a thread or something to make our own online team as most of users in this thread have it for the 360.

What difficulty level and what sliders are you guys using?

Also...add me to a team! GT: DesignerSky

Anyone up for some 6 v 6 action tonight?

Just got signed up and played a few games (both styles). Did okay controlling the team but had mixed results in the BaP team versus team mode. Won the game I played in which I was the center but there were only a couple people playing. The oe in which I was a defenseman se got out butts kicked. Some of it was me out of position but most of it was the entire team out of position even more. It was like our forwards were trying to be the one on one hero every time down the ice and the other defenseman kept leaving me hung out to dry to face odd man rushes.


EagleFan1022 is the name on there.

I have now locked up three times, just froze on a screen. Once on the menu, ones in a game and once when a game was just about o start.

Has anyone had this kind of problem. I have to power off the X-Box and restart it as it is not responsive to anything once it locks. So far I have only noticed it in this game ad only since I have begun going online. I am hoping this isn't a preview to the red ring of death.

I have now locked up three times, just froze on a screen. Once on the menu, ones in a game and once when a game was just about o start.

Has anyone had this kind of problem. I have to power off the X-Box and restart it as it is not responsive to anything once it locks. So far I have only noticed it in this game ad only since I have begun going online. I am hoping this isn't a preview to the red ring of death.

I haven't had any trouble playing solo but when I try to do the online team play, it freezes every time. I just stopped trying.

I haven't had any trouble playing solo but when I try to do the online team play, it freezes every time. I just stopped trying.

Tried solo after that and no lockup at all. Was able to get a couple online games in after that. As long as it's not a prelude to the circle of death I am okay with it.

There are tons of problems related to EA servers. I have played 7 total games and only 2 were counted against my stats, the other 5 didn't (and all them were ranked). Of course by murphy's laws, the one where i scored a nice goal from the point with my Defenseman was not counted.

The EA sports forum is full of complains about the servers, stats nto being counted, discconects from games and freezes online so i guess they will fix it soon.

Wow just had my best game in BAP online.

I'm an offensive defenseman, i usually stay in the point to try to score from slap shots but in this game i saw a few chances to get into more offensive positions in some plays and it payed off. We were 3-0 and i scored two consecutive goals and gave an assist for the game tying one. Then in the shootout i missed my chance, but our C scored his so we won the game.

My stats were 2 goals, 1 assist, 10 hits and 3 blocked shots, becoming the star player of the game. Too bad i couldn't save the goals highlights as it what seems a bug or crap feature, if your game ends with a shootout, the only available replays are the goals from that shootout instead of the whole game replays.

I really love playing as defenseman and helping the attack from time to time.

Do we have enough PS3 people? :) Me and Icy are two I think.

Probably gonna grab this tomorrow (360). I'm gonna suck for a very long time until I figure out the controls.

Downloaded the demo today (PS3). I will be picking this one up on the way home from work tomorrow.

Probably gonna grab this tomorrow (360). I'm gonna suck for a very long time until I figure out the controls.

Don't punch your teammates.

We need to compile a list of gamer tags per system. I would love to get on a team with a group that at least has an idea of how to play as a team.

Just one game that I have been in has consisted of team players and we kicked ass (8-0 and I had 4 goals and 2 assists as RW). In all the others it has been made up of 4 skaters who want to be the star and me havnig to play RW like a defenseman as if I didn't it would be 2 on 0 every time for the other team. Every time we had the puck in teh offensive zone our defensemen would crash the net (there would be 4 of our players around the goalie and me back at the blue line praying that I can break up the odd man rush about to happen. I am the second man on a 2 on 1 offensively once and the other player takes it basically end to end an loses the puck. Another tme I tried to start a tic-tac-toe passing combination but once I gave it up I would not see it again. On the last attempt I waited until he was in the best scoring position and fed him the puck for a slam dunk goal (at least set it up as his pass button must be broken).

I guess there should be no reson to have higher expectations in a PUG here than in something like WoW. ;)

I would love to be on a team with some from here. I don't mind center but I suck at face offs (what is the trick as I don't see anything in the manual about it). I like setting people up as the center. For winger I prefer right wing, not sure why but it just feels awkward to me on the other side of the rink. Same for defense. keep trying goalie in single player but still have not gotten the hang of it. I am willing to try any position if the idea is to switch up from time to time but want to at least let you know what to expect.

Don't punch your teammates.

More like a glancing blow. The sad part is that's actually the first time he hasn't connected with a defensive back all season.

So now that some of the novelty has worn off Be a Pro, the following things are bugging me:

- Scoring is way too low, at least with five minute periods. All my games are 1-0 or 2-1. Are people playing with longer periods?

- No powerplays.

- Fighting sucks. I didn't think it was actually possible for it to be any worse than it usually is in EA games, but they topped themselves. Two punches? Why even bother?

- Is anyone else seeing a bug when goalies play the puck after covering it? Nobody on my team reacts, they all just stand there while the puck slides by until the other team picks it up (and usually scores).

So now that some of the novelty has worn off Be a Pro, the following things are bugging me:

- Scoring is way too low, at least with five minute periods. All my games are 1-0 or 2-1. Are people playing with longer periods?

- No powerplays.

- Fighting sucks. I didn't think it was actually possible for it to be any worse than it usually is in EA games, but they topped themselves. Two punches? Why even bother?

- Is anyone else seeing a bug when goalies play the puck after covering it? Nobody on my team reacts, they all just stand there while the puck slides by until the other team picks it up (and usually scores).

1) I play default 5 minute periods on All Star and scoring seems fine in my games. They seem to range from the odd 1-0 affair to 4-3, 5-3 games. I had a game (when I was still on Pro) where I was a +5.

2) Penalties are indeed a little low, although I'm not sure there are 'none'.

3) Fighting totally sucks. It sucks hard.

4) Are you pressing the 'call for the puck' button while the goalie has the puck? This is the only time I've seen my goalie pass the puck out, otherwise he smothers it. When I do call for him to pass it to me, I agree the other players stand around, but then again, I did ask for it, so I guess it's my responsibility at that point :)

1) I play in All start with 7 minutes and number of goals is fine and realistic. The CPU is a bit dump in PRO, i suggest you to move to All star if you want to see offense from them.

2)Penalties are low and a problem in the game, but as we are playing low minutes periods, i guess 2 or 3 penalties per game is fine and it's what i'm having with maxed penalty slider.

3) fighting is crap, just about who lands the first punch and game over. I just keep it enabled because it adds penalties.

4) have not noticed it

1)I'm still in Pro mode, 5 minute periods, everything as-is when you get the game... I see different variations in scores. Win 1-0, lose 2-1, win 4-1, lose 5-1, etc.

2)I find penalties pretty low too. The one time they were excellent was when I played online in the quick match team games. Ended up having a couple of power plays on each side.

3)Fighting sucks.

4)The only goalie thing that pisses me off, is that with weaker goalies it seems like they'll stop a shot, and then when they scoop the puck back to themselves, it goes through the 5-hole. It happened a ton in the demo, but a lot less in the actual game. The only other bug-like thing was some defenseman on the Stars skating in a circle in his own end anytime he got the puck during on shift. It was funny, and I've never seen it again.

Am I the only one here playing with 10 minute periods?

What, so Colin White can skate around in circles for 10 minutes instead of 5?

What, so Colin White can skate around in circles for 10 minutes instead of 5?
As much as I dislike the guy, I've gotta admit it's pretty cute to watch him do that!

With or without puck?

man i dont never give that bitch the puck i aint crazy

Am I the only one here playing with 10 minute periods?

I am as well.

Okay, here are the sliders I've been using. Have been getting good scoring with most games 3-2, 4-2, 4-3, with the occasional dominant 5+ game.

Difficulty: All-Star

Penalties: Max
Fighting: Middle

Game Speed: 0
Puck Control: 2
Fight Diff.: 4
Fatigue: 6
AI Learning: 3

Fatigue Recovery: 0
Acceleration: 1

Hitting Power: 2
Aggression: 3
Poke: 4

Pass Speed: 0
Saucer: 5
Interception: 3
Goalie Passing: 2

Shot Acc: 3
Shot Power: 3

Blocking: 2
Hook: 3
Penalty shot: 1
Goalie Cover: 2

Try these out and let me know what happens. One of these sliders really affects penalties but I forget which. These are just slightly modified from someone at OS.

Edit: Also, for faceoffs...once you see the ref move his hand, hold down on the right analog stick, don't flick.

I played the actual game for the first time last night (as opposed to Be A Pro mode) against my brother, and it was a blast. Not a whole lot different than 08, but definitely an improvement.

The night ended on a great note when I scored the cheapest OT goal in history. I dumped the puck from deep in my end, and sent a winger careening after it. My bro's d-man got to the boards first, and clearly touched the puck (even changing its direction), but didn't get possession, which apparently this game thinks is necessary for icing to be called. A heartbeat later, my winger pounds the helpless defenceman face first into the boards from behind, which should have been a 40 game suspension but was deemed legal by the ref. I then scooped up the puck, swung around behind the net and passed it out front to my center who potted the game winner while my brother hollered at the TV in protest.

I've put the play up on the EA servers with the name "Cheapest OT Goal Ever" if anyone is interested in watching :D

I've put the play up on the EA servers with the name "Cheapest OT Goal Ever" if anyone is interested in watching :D

I laughed my ass off when i saw that hit against the boards... :D

Can you view these cross-platform?

<object width="425" height="355">Fidatelo's goal:

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EA SPORTS World: Cheapest OT Goal Ever (http://www.easportsworld.com/en_US/video/717477)
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I laughed my ass off when i saw that hit against the boards... :D

Looked like a Crosby dive!

Hahaha. Nice hit. Go Oilers!

Oh and Steve Downie just said that hit was legal...

Can anyone tell me if there's a roster draft in the game that I'm just missing?

Sure, NHL 09 has it's occasional realism glitches. But at least they don't put them right in the ads.

Oh wait, yes they do (http://downgoesbrown.blogspot.com/2008/09/nhl-09-kyle-wellwood.html).

Sure, NHL 09 has it's occasional realism glitches. But at least they don't put them right in the ads.

Oh wait, yes they do (http://downgoesbrown.blogspot.com/2008/09/nhl-09-kyle-wellwood.html).

Haha! I don't see anything wrong!

I started a franchise just because I wanted to start making some moves. After all, the GM is my favorite position to play.

I'm playing as the Phoenix Coyotes...made it to the playoffs but quickly got manhandled by the Blackhawks.

I did notice a problem however...at the start of the next season, there are still a few studs sitting there in free agency. The 95 rated Peter Forsberg was around so I traded my starting C and picked him up. But it does concern me a bit...We'll see how it goes as the franchise progresses.

I did notice a problem however...at the start of the next season, there are still a few studs sitting there in free agency.
Careful... if you see Mats Sundin on the FA list, don't try to negotiate. The game will freeze for four months.

Damn!!! Just played my first online team game as a goalie (was quite nervous to start with) and we lost 4-2. Unfortunately my defense left me hung out to dry several times so I actually consider it a bit of a victory that I only let in 4. That was fun as hell once I got into it. Nothing quite like the feeling of a beautiful glove save on a close in shot (especially with the announcer then praising the save). Actually tonight was abou the first time I did not try anything on the offensive side and enjoyed the hell out of it. Played defense the other games and started to finally get a better feel for that position (with a couple offensive chances where I snuck up on the play at select times).

If I were to win a lottery I may become a hermit playing this game.

Sure, NHL 09 has it's occasional realism glitches. But at least they don't put them right in the ads.

Oh wait, yes they do (http://downgoesbrown.blogspot.com/2008/09/nhl-09-kyle-wellwood.html).

I don't get it. It's a game where you can create and use your own player so what is the deal?

A quick compiled list of what I have seen in the thread.

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
msf518 - mtf99
rowech - ralphiecs
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb

jeepers.. I've had the game since last Monday, but I hadn't actually tested it until last night.. ended up staying up until 3 a.m. and now I'm sitting at my desk trying hard not to fall asleep.. :)

After a few games with 5 minute periods, I had to switch to 7 minutes.. I felt like I didn't have enough time to get anything done in "Be a Pro" mode.

A quick compiled list of what I have seen in the thread.

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
msf518 - mtf99
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb


Mine is ralphiecs

I don't get it. It's a game where you can create and use your own player so what is the deal?
Imagine a Madden ad where Martin Grammatica was trucking a DT...

As were not enough PS3 users here, i have joined the Operation sports PS3 online team. They are still recruiting, you can apply here:

TEAM OS (PS3) RECRUITING THREAD - Operation Sports Forums (http://www.operationsports.com/forums/ea-sports-nhl-online/269936-team-os-ps3-recruiting-thread.html)

Thanks Icy. I'll try to join once I'm more stable with time in the evenings.

I got called up from the Phantoms to the Flyers after 12 games. My first game as a Flyer I have a hat trick. The next day, I am sent back down.

Mine is ralphiecs

Updated it.

A quick compiled list of what I have seen in the thread.

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
msf518 - mtf99
rowech - ralphiecs
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb

A quick compiled list of what I have seen in the thread.

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
msf518 - mtf99
rowech - ralphiecs
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb


klayman - jbeaulac

I got called up from the Phantoms to the Flyers after 12 games. My first game as a Flyer I have a hat trick. The next day, I am sent back down.

After 30 games in Springfield, I'm leading the AHL in goals and points and I got demoted to the 2nd line after I went 5 games without a point. Only after my linemates were called up or traded and replaced with 2 useless tools, though.

I got called up from the Phantoms to the Flyers after 12 games. My first game as a Flyer I have a hat trick. The next day, I am sent back down.

Sounds like MLB: The Show.

I take it back. Most realistic game ever.

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<div style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://www.easportsworld.com/en_US/video/751295" target="_top">EA SPORTS World: McCabe Magic</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*PTEyMjIyMjEyNzYzNTkmcHQ9MTIyMjIyMTI4MDg5MCZwPTk1MDcxJmQ9Jm49Jmc9MSZ*PSZvPTY3NGVmMWMwNjBmOTRiYmU4MDkyYjhlYTk3OTk4ZmYw.gif" />

hahahahaha

An update:

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
klayman - jbeaulac
msf518 - mtf99
rowech - ralphiecs
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb

ML that is awesome :)

An update:

X-Box Gamer Tags:


DeToxRox - DeToxRox
Dr. Sak - Dr Sak
EagleFan - EagleFan1022
heybrad - heybrad
klayman - jbeaulac
msf518 - mtf99
rowech - ralphiecs
Sublime 2 - jpro21885
yacovfb - yacovfb


MizzouRah - MizzouRah0971

MizzouRah - MizzouRah0971

Were there really 970 other MizzouRah handles already in existance?

Were there really 970 other MizzouRah handles already in existance?

lol.. no but MizzouRah was taken, so I used my b-day.