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NHL 16 - Full Feature Reveal Coming May 19th

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I'd like it if we could have custom music support again in some way.

(This could be said for any past feature like all the customization options, editing a player, practice, EASHL, etc. but the music thing seems tougher to pull off)
 
It_was_me_austin.jpg


Obviously.
 
Another thing that will stop me from buying it. Call me stupid but I don't want to see that NHL on NBC crap plastered all over the place.
 
1080p/60 fps with full modes and full practice options and I'll be in. I bought 15 and felt really burnt on everything but the actual on ice gameplay. Canadian announcers wouldn't hurt either, but it'll never happen.
 
Fraull said:
NHL 15 really improved the gameplay mechanics. Skating, shooting, deking, everything feels so much better in 15 compared to 14. There are a lot of features missing, which was a stupid decision. I am only playing GM mode, so for me 15 has been a great experience. My biggest gripe with NHL before was that the opposing team felt as if they had magnets on their sticks to get the puck and the goalie AI was unrealistic.
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You never noticed the AI on breakout? They stopped before their own blue line. Huge step back from last gens AI in every way.

Also you could just keep chucking pucks cross crease because pass intercepts were always 50/50.

NHL 15 was the worst game in franchise history.
 
mdubs said:
John Tavares.

Secondary guesses would be Rick Nash, Drew Doughty or Corey Perry.

Cover is typically of a Canadian player from an American team.

See: 14, 13, 12, 11, 08, 06 covers for that trend.
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See 15 as well (Bergeron is Canadian and plays for Bruins.)
 
Xeteh said:
As someone who grew up playing EA NHL games since NHL 94 I stopped buying them in 08 (with the exception of NHL 14 that had a huuuuge discount). They stopped giving a shit about that franchise long ago. I played the shit out of 06 even though it felt like a mediocre game so I skipped 07 and went for 08. They just reused animations and announcer commentary. 14 was the next one I bought and its still just something EA spits out. Issues like your AI teammates just skating in offside without trying to hold up until 3 feet in, tripping penalties being a 50/50 chance every time you try to poke check. It drove me insane.

I tried NHL 15's demo and the exact same issues were there. Then I heard about all the cut features. About how they waited until right around launch (or was it launch day) to admit they weren't in the game and they'd patch them in. Have they even patched it all in at this point? Eh, doesn't matter.

I'm not on the OMG I HATE EA train but it'll be a long time before I buy another NHL game unless something changes.
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I personally have never understood buying yearly installment sports games, but as someone who at least follows EA's NHL releases, I can agree.

I follow the series' progression because my brother, who isn't a geek, likes to play these games and I reported the info back to him. Around 2009 he asked me to stop until something really game-changing happens. We have never spoken of the series since until last year when I warned him to not buy the game under any circumstances.

My brother could be classified as a "dudebro" casual, although he's too smart to be a dudebro and still plays stuff like Mario Kart. And despite the idea that dudebro casuals eat up the yearly releases of shit like Madden, he asked me something a while back that I will try to paraphrase:

"Remember back when the original Nintendo was out and there was just one or two games for each sport that were REALLY good and you played into the ground? Y'know, Tecmo Bowl and Blades of Steel and even the goofy-ass Baseball Simulator? Why can't they just do that again and make downloadable roster changes? I mean, NHL games on SNES were shit after 97, but they kept making one every year."

My mouth fell all the way open.

So I had to explain the league branding exclusivity pushing a lot of publishers out of making sports games, since people were no longer buying them without league branding once EA had brought it into the mix, among other things, and EA having no intention of doing what he suggested since stringing customers along with purposefully-cut features is how they make all of their money. His response:

"Fuck, so me buying EA Sports games was what made it so no one else would make them?"

I broke the news to him gently. And surprisingly, we now have something in common. We both hate EA now, just for wildly different reasons.
 
So there's no way they are talking about the game now without having EASHL next year right? Because last year they waited till like 3 weeks before release to break the news to us...
 
I'd like to think that if they are going to announce so early, they are putting EASHL in it. No way they would come out and say "nope it won't be there, but please buy in 3 months."
 
fix the fucking stick checking in the game, it seems to get worse and worse each year.

Get rid of the bullshit goalie interference physics, i brush up against the goalie and i get called for interference.

EASHL won't work if you have the current physics in place, where everyone is accidently running into each other and their teammates and falling around, I get what your trying to do but it won't work with this style of arcady fast pased game.

Or turn it down a bit or something.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVow9tHDnzw
 
Yeah, I completely skipped out on this year's version but everyone told me it sucked. It'll be a hell of a lot for them to improve the game play AND add that mode.

And let's not forget, they were the only sports franchise that first next-gen year when they were the only sports franchise not to release a game, and they came out and said "We're all about putting the complete, polished product out there!"
 
The thing that has bothered me about this series is that it seems to be getting less fun with each successive release.
 
One thing i dont understand anymore with sports games, is that today, they constantly release a new version of the game, with always only minor adjustment everytime. Why they dont simply use this DLC crazy generation thing, and release, let say, 2016 update.

Every freakin sports games in the planet become obsolete the year after, these cd sports games are taking too much space. Time to change that!

Would you be happy to pay, let say 49,99 for an upgrade that give you the same stuff as if it was release on a new year cd? We all know that visually, it will remain the same engine untill a next gen console come out. Why always rince and copy every time?

Could save on cost of production, packing, shipment etc.
 
HF2014 said:
One thing i dont understand anymore with sports games, is that today, they constantly release a new version of the game, with always only minor adjustment everytime. Why they dont simply use this DLC crazy generation thing, and release, let say, 2016 update.
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because people keep paying for new versions
 
Every year I expect good things from the NHL series and every year I'm disappointed. Adding back all the features they've removed is a positive step but I'm more interested in the on-ice improvements. Fix the fucking superhuman goaltenders already.

HF2014 said:
One thing i dont understand anymore with sports games, is that today, they constantly release a new version of the game, with always only minor adjustment everytime. Why they dont simply use this DLC crazy generation thing, and release, let say, 2016 update.

Every freakin sports games in the planet become obsolete the year after, these cd sports games are taking too much space. Time to change that!

Would you be happy to pay, let say 49,99 for an upgrade that give you the same stuff as if it was release on a new year cd? We all know that visually, it will remain the same engine untill a next gen console come out. Why always rince and copy every time?

Could save on cost of production, packing, shipment etc.
Click to expand...

Because that's DLC that makes sense. Can't have that.
 
This game should be 1/2 off if you bought NHL 15 at launch. @petermooreea should be personally embarrassed over that mess. We basically subsidized development of NHL 16 via purchase of it's beta last year.
 
I had to look back and see what I gave NHL 15 (5/10), but man, they have to do A LOT to get me excited. Seeing simple things such as team/player chants being excluded was inexcusable. Not to mention the frequent soft goals, and missing game modes.
 
Samus4145 said:
I had to look back and see what I gave NHL 15 (5/10), but man, they have to do A LOT to get me excited. Seeing simple things such as team/player chants being excluded was inexcusable. Not to mention the frequent soft goals, and missing game modes.
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Agreed.

If I had to compile my wish list for NHL 16, it'd have stuff like:

- Bring back EA Game Face. None of the pre-made faces resemble me even slightly.
- License the authentic goal celebration music for the teams.
- Get the authentic goalie masks for all of the goalies.
- Team/player chants (like you said).
- Maybe get some of the arena/team specific chants and jingles in place (i.e. The LA Kings' Adam's Family tune with the crowd shouting "Ducks suck!" at the end).
- Have the crowd heckle the goalie (i.e. slowly calling out his name when they get behind by a few goals).
- Player faces... For god's sake, try and get them right! Some in 15 were spot-on, but a lot weren't even close.
- I know it's reaching, but get some goalie warm-up mannerisms in. Not every goalie warms up the same way.
- I'd love to see some intermission activities like the zamboni game NHL 2K had just to break things up.
- AND WAKE UP, DOC! I was so happy to have him do the announcing in 15, but was bummed that he seemed very subdued and detached from the action.

But I know they won't do even 5% of this, so whatever.
 
CheapyD said:
This game should be 1/2 off if you bought NHL 15 at launch. @petermooreea should be personally embarrassed over that mess. We basically subsidized development of NHL 16 via purchase of it's beta last year.
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I didn't get the game but I completely agree
 
I am curious about these features, however my hope for any significant improvement in the series is almost zero... specially with no competition.
 
bumpkin said:
Agreed.

If I had to compile my wish list for NHL 16, it'd have stuff like:

- Bring back EA Game Face. None of the pre-made faces resemble me even slightly.
- License the authentic goal celebration music for the teams.
- Get the authentic goalie masks for all of the goalies.
- Team/player chants (like you said).
- Maybe get some of the arena/team specific chants and jingles in place (i.e. The LA Kings' Adam's Family tune with the crowd shouting "Ducks suck!" at the end).
- Have the crowd heckle the goalie (i.e. slowly calling out his name when they get behind by a few goals).
- Player faces... For god's sake, try and get them right! Some in 15 were spot-on, but a lot weren't even close.
- I know it's reaching, but get some goalie warm-up mannerisms in. Not every goalie warms up the same way.
- I'd love to see some intermission activities like the zamboni game NHL 2K had just to break things up.
- AND WAKE UP, DOC! I was so happy to have him do the announcing in 15, but was bummed that he seemed very subdued and detached from the action.

But I know they won't do even 5% of this, so whatever.
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I agree with everything you said. I have been dumbfounded on why they are not attempting to license actual goal songs. It's the natural progression since they first started with actual goal horns. Get the goal songs/clips etc. and get rid of the bullshit list of music included every year.

Chants and jeers need to be team specific. I would expect a NYI/NYR game to be full of competing chants and jeers. Home teams should be going after the away goalie after goals or star players.
 
I hope this means a legit and full on revamped and awesome version of EASHL. Seriously, I refused to buy 15. EASHL is the only thing I play.

Filth said:
A rumor is they are removing the point attributes from eashl and are making it pre done builds. This is the worst idea I've ever heard of because this is going to turn into " buy the Steven stamkos sniper build " or the " 1989 jagr build with boosted stats ".
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I really call bullshit on this. Large amounts of bullshit.
 
Supposedly the page was up for a tiny bit and was copied before being taken down.

Release date: Coming September 2015
Available only on Xbox One & PlayStation 4
NHL 16

Built with more input from our fans than ever before, NHL 16 steps onto the ice to deliver ways to compete as a team, new features across the most played single-player modes, gameplay innovation at every position on the ice and an unrivaled game day atmosphere.

NEW WAYS TO COMPETE AS A TEAM

Hockey is a sport that comes to life in a competitive team-based gameplay experience. Whether itÂ’s through speed, skill, or physicality, every player makes an impact on the ice no matter what position they play or their role on the team. So grab some friends and jump into either 6 v. 6 Online Team Play, Online Couch Co-op, or the re-imagined EA SPORTS Hockey League and prove that great individuals canÂ’t beat a great team.

The New EASHL

Sharpen those skates and grab your buddies because the EA SPORTS Hockey League is back! This fan-favorite online team mode has been reimagined and lets you choose specialized player classes to deliver a balanced competitive experience on the ice. Player skill and your ability to play as a team will now be the determining factor in who wins and loses hockey games.

6 v. 6 Online Team Play

Play online with up to twelve skaters including user controlled goalies. Using real-world NHL rosters you can compete in ranked drop-in games against players from around the world or invite your friends to a private OTP session before you step into EA SPORTS Hockey League.

Online Couch Co-op

The perfect way to play when you and your friends want to jump on the couch, join forces and play some drop-in hockey online. ItÂ’s the best place to practice your team play skills before playing OTP or EASHL.

A WAY TO PLAY FOR EVERY HOCKEY FAN

Whether youÂ’re an armchair GM, want to live out your NHL pro fantasy, or build your ultimate dream team, NHL 16 will deliver a single-player game mode for every type of hockey fan - each with new features that youÂ’ve never seen in EA SPORTS NHL.

Be a GM: Player Morale

Being a GM is about more than just getting the best players, itÂ’s about getting the right players to play well together. Each player on your NHL and AHL team has a different personality that you will have to manage. Deal with trade demands, teammate relationships, and much more by calling team meetings or adjusting your roster to directly affect your teamÂ’s on-ice performance.

Be a Pro: Shape Your Legacy

The way you play dictates the type of player you will become in an all-new Be a Pro progression system. On-ice actions directly influence attributes earned, ensuring that your Pro will reflect the way you play. Sim to your next shift and the ability to work your way up from CHL rookie to an NHL Superstar also make a return in NHL 16.

Hockey Ultimate Team: Single Player Seasons

The most played mode in the NHL series gets even better. Improved player management and the introduction of HUT Single Player Seasons gives you another way to hone your skills before jumping online with HUT Online Seasons or challenging your friends with the Play a Friend feature.

Visual On-Ice Training

Whether youÂ’re new to the NHL series and looking for pointers or are a grizzled veteran trying to perfect your game, this new training tool will help sharpen your offensive and defensive skills no matter your talent level. Visual aids project shooting targets, passing lanes, open teammates, and more.

COMPLETE CONTROL FROM EVERY POSITION

Whether you play as a forward, defenseman or goalie, NHL 16 delivers a balanced gameplay experience that makes every position on the ice meaningful to team success. With gameplay innovation on offense and defense, players have new tools to not only score goals, but to prevent them as well.

Precision Skating

Utilize a new skating tool that allows you to make refined movements with your skater in any situation. On defense quickly jump into passing lanes and intercept the puck, or walk the blueline on the power play and open yourself up for that one-timer in the offensive zone.

Seamless Puck Pickups

The ability to quickly control a pass or corral a loose puck can be the difference between generating a scoring chance and getting leveled. New puck pickups result in smoother transitions when receiving the puck no matter what your position, giving you more time and control to make your next move.

UNRIVALED GAME DAY AUTHENTICITY

NHL 16 brings the game to life with distinct arena atmospheres, the most realistic players yet, and a story-driven commentary package to pull you into the energy of the game like never before.

Distinct Team Arena Atmosphere

Best in class arena authenticity gets even better with the inclusion of authentic arena effects and props including team specific celebrations, mascots, chants, and even signature props like the Lighthouse at the Xcel Energy Center in Minnesota.

Story Driven Commentary (more robot?)

Doc Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, and Ray Ferraro are back and now call the game with even more emotion. Hear DocÂ’s voice rise and fall with the action on the ice and get analysis from Eddie & Ray on the peaks and valleys of a NHL season. An expanded NBC SPORTS broadcast package and new pre-game intros brings the drama to life in more ways than ever before.

Superstar Authenticity

Enhanced facial features and new equipment details synonymous with the leagueÂ’s top players adds another layer of player authenticity. Use these new equipment elements to customize your own created character giving them a unique look, from custom stick tape, colored skate laces, tinted visors, and more.

Playoff Beards

One of the oldest and most iconic traditions in hockey has arrived. With accurate representations of beard patterns, length, thickness, and growth rates for individual players, the road to the Stanley Cup just got hairier.

Source: (https://www.easports.com/nhl/features/nhl-16)
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No EASHL, no buy.

Last year was the first time since NHL 07-08 that I passed on picking it up. EA promised a full reset of club come NHL 16, I hope they are true to their word.

Still can't believe they cut so many modes & features last year.Blatant slap in the face to hardcore fans. But hey Ultimate Team was day 1 I wonder why...
 
Cautiously optimistic about this. Played a little of NHL 15, and yeah. The only other I've had prior to this was NHL 94.

If I could ask for anything it would be better atmosphere and movement.
 
I was really suprised that the last game was 720p...even on PS4. EA Canada is one of EA most talented studios. And their best Sports studio.

was it ever explain why they chose 720p?

I'm sure this year will be 1080p however.
 
I enjoyed sports games on PS2 but never got into it on PS3.

I really hope this is good, because sports games can be so hype when playing with friends.
 
They need to make it clear how exactly every player on the ice makes a difference. There hasn't been an NHL game since 13 where playing defense has been enjoyable. Every year there are new quick dekes, stride dekes and such but defense is stuck with canned animation poke checks that never connect when it should.
 
Being a GM is about more than just getting the best players, itÂ’s about getting the right players to play well together. Each player on your NHL and AHL team has a different personality that you will have to manage. Deal with trade demands, teammate relationships, and much more by calling team meetings or adjusting your roster to directly affect your teamÂ’s on-ice performance.
Click to expand...

I like the sound of this. Still, I want more details on how (if?) they're improving the on-ice game.
 
Zombie James said:
I like the sound of this. Still, I want more details on how (if?) they're improving the on-ice game.
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That's also my concern... If the game don't make a free defensive stick with the RS (to pokecheck, block shots etc) and insist with the checking being on the RS the game will never give the step in the direction of a real simulation.
 
Belfour20 said:
Supposedly the page was up for a tiny bit and was copied before being taken down.
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If that's real it's basically like expected.

Nothing new, just old features that are back and presented as "new" and "reimagined". The precision skating and refined puck pickups could either be solid improvements to the gameplay or fancy names for a few new animations.

Oh well, skipped 15 and I'm starved for EASHL so EA has my money.
 
The New EASHL

Sharpen those skates and grab your buddies because the EA SPORTS Hockey League is back! This fan-favorite online team mode has been reimagined and lets you choose specialized player classes to deliver a balanced competitive experience on the ice. Player skill and your ability to play as a team will now be the determining factor in who wins and loses hockey games.
Click to expand...

tumblr_lm3g40gKuD1qddp4io1_400.gif
 
So are we assuming you can only choose pre-sets without being able to add EXP in the categories you want?

That'd be... underwhelming.
 
Last NHL game I played was NHL 2001, so I would be really interested in going back to the series this year! :)

Really hope the game is announced for Wii U.
 
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