NHL 09 First Look: GameSpot

[ianlast]

Can't say that I'm all that excited about the 'Be A Pro' feature, wasn't that big on it in FIFA 08.

One-handed dekes sounds awesome...this isn't just some hot-dog move, you actually see it quite often in 1-on-1 situations. Lift the stick sounds great too...although the 5 min major 'risk' could be problematic, I can see frustration similar to that associated with the slap-pass in 08. Hopefully it will be called judiciously.

Anyone else getting a vibe that Zdeno Chara might make cover? Just basing that off the title screen on Gamespot...if so that would be sweet, Big Z is one of my faves.

[Scott]

Haven't picked up a hockey game in a while but may pick up this one.

[bukktown]

I'm really looking forward to this one. The stick raising control on defense is something I was hoping for. And what intrigues me most is the defensive skill stick to better cover passing lanes.

Does this mean that they took checking off of the R-stick? Are they going to eliminate triggering checking with a button? I hope so. If they make checking controlled solely by the left stick and the momentum vs. mass of the players involved in the collision, I think that will be a good move forward akin to eliminating the speed burst button.

[metallidevils]

Wonder what the massive feature they're talking about could be - I can't imagine anything massive that could be added to a hockey game.

Most of the tweaks seem small; but if the goalie mode is a lot better than last year, I'd definitely buy the game to create a goalie and play with him.

[bukktown]

Quote: Originally Posted by metallidevils

Wonder what the massive feature they're talking about could be - I can't imagine anything massive that could be added to a hockey game. Most of the tweaks seem small; but if the goalie mode is a lot better than last year, I'd definitely buy the game to create a goalie and play with him.

I wonder if it might be online franchise mode

[Lubey]

I'm looking forward to Be A Pro mode. I played around with it a little in FIFA, but I think it would work better in hockey. There'd be a lot less random running around, since all 5 players should always be involved in the play, unlike soccer usually. You do sit on the bench, but it shouldn't be too bad. I also know how to play hockey a lot better than soccer, and I have a lot more faith in the NHL team than the FIFA team.

[Bluebuds]

I wanna hear if the slap pass was removed and if the Goalies will actually make glove saves this year (Or not go down 5 seconds before the shot)

[Qb]

I like the new defensive controls and Be a Pro should be a nice diversion from franchise play. Here's hoping that they improve the online leagues (player stat tracking!?) and various AI issues that need to be improved, notably neutral zone play & positioning. If 6-on-6 plays well, we need to get some good games through OS. I had fun playing 3-on-3 with my friend and randoms and I can't imagine the chaos that would ensue with every skater (not to mention goalies) being human controlled. Can't wait!!!