NHL 2K11 Cover Athlete is Ryan Kesler

[Flyermania]

Quote: Originally Posted by savoie2006

In that case just put Gretzky on all covers, as even people who hate hockey and know nothing about it (funny how that is), will know the player and might even be attracted to the game. Is that why EA's game sells so much more? Because their player is in the news months before the game is released, so he is more recognized. I think I'm understanding EA's marketing more and more now

I'm sure if Gretzky/Lemieux were still playing (and as a result members of the NHLPA) I'm sure both games would slap 'em on the front if they could!

[DrJones]

Quote: Originally Posted by FORMULA316

Exactly. I was implying that there is a ceiling to which 2K or EA for that matter would pay for Coverboys. I don't see how 2K is smart for the frugality of signing Kesler coming off a year in which their games sport both Kobe and Ovi.

Kobe has nothing to do with this, NBA is still a moneymaker for 2K. I'm saying they're using Kesler because it's costing them next to nothing, which is what NHL's marketing budget has likely been slashed to.

[DrJones]

Quote: Originally Posted by Flyermania

A recognizeable player/face on the cover might help attract a casual fan to the game...

Sales figures haven't borne this out in the past. All things being equal, you prefer a more recognizable player...but they rarely are.