NHL 11 Demo Available Now, Post Your Impressions Here (360, PS3)

[Sausage]

I have heard so much about this franchise the last 3 years. I have not played a hockey game since NHL 2002 with "Super" Mario.

Now, at the moment the default controls are a bit deep for me, so if I play with the "simpler" control schemes would I be at a huge disadvantage playing online and against the A.I.?

What are your opinions for a total beginner to simulation hockey?

[idrisguitar]

honestly?

find someone else to play who equally is new to the game. with the proper controls and try and have fun learning them

because once you do this game becomes one of the best sports sims ever made. the control scheme is a BIG part of the games terrific gameplay.

[crobert0247]

Quote: Originally Posted by Sausage

I have heard so much about this franchise the last 3 years. I have not played a hockey game since NHL 2002 with "Super" Mario. Now, at the moment the default controls are a bit deep for me, so if I play with the "simpler" control schemes would I be at a huge disadvantage playing online and against the A.I.? What are your opinions for a total beginner to simulation hockey?

I don't think you would be at a disadvantage with classic controls but you'd be missing out on a ton of gratifying moments and plays without using default controls. If you have the time, definitely stick with the default control class and use the demo as a training ground. Look at the controls and focus on one control for a few minutes and you'll have it down pretty quick, even as a beginner. You would definitely sell yourself short overall using any other configuration IMO.

[onlybygrace]

Quote: Originally Posted by crobert0247

I don't think you would be at a disadvantage with classic controls but you'd be missing out on a ton of gratifying moments and plays without using default controls. If you have the time, definitely stick with the default control class and use the demo as a training ground. Look at the controls and focus on one control for a few minutes and you'll have it down pretty quick, even as a beginner. You would definitely sell yourself short overall using any other configuration IMO.

No...I'm sure he'd be at a huge disadvantage as classic controls do not have the 'hustle' feature or the 'push puck' options that other human players will most likely be using against him.

Thats just the beginning.

Take the time to learn the controls...

[puckhead73]

Gotta say i'm with everyone else on this one.... The skill stick is the way to go definitely. The curve is steep, yes, but there comes with it a connection to the player you are controlling. It just isn't the same holding down the square button to rip a shot from the point and having it deflected in for a goal. Totally different experience. Like was said before me, take your time with the demo and tutorials, and learn the skill stick. Miles ahead of button pressing.

[crobert0247]

Quote: Originally Posted by onlybygrace

No...I'm sure he'd be at a huge disadvantage as classic controls do not have the 'hustle' feature or the 'push puck' options that other human players will most likely be using against him. Thats just the beginning. Take the time to learn the controls...

As far as disadvantage goes, it comes down to the player and how they execute regardless of the control configuration. You can't speak for every player, Grace. But, I'm sure your point is valid in many cases, especially with the availability of hustle(which I absolutely love - see previous posts) this year. To be clear, I'll reiterate my conclusion and overall recommendation to all beginners. *See bold text below from previous post.

Quote: Originally Posted by crobert0247

I don't think you would be at a disadvantage with classic controls but you'd be missing out on a ton of gratifying moments and plays without using default controls. If you have the time, definitely stick with the default control class and use the demo as a training ground. Look at the controls and focus on one control for a few minutes and you'll have it down pretty quick, even as a beginner. You would definitely sell yourself short overall using any other configuration IMO.

[Redshirt_EA]

Quote: Originally Posted by sroz39

(regarding face-off loop) I can totally appreciate the difficulty in pin-pointing the problem. Definitely appreciate that you guys eliminated known intentional causes from 10. That's a plus. And even though our club has found a counter that's almost 100% effective, it'd be great to not have to deal with all the bs. Fingers crossed here.

It isn't a single problem, many different things can cause it to happen so it is an ongoing battle.

[norml]

I've been playing this demo all day and I really only have one complaint. Stick control on defense is still horrible. You should be able to position your stick while skating and maintaining your speed. It is something even the crappiest defenseman can do in his sleep. But still, I've been playing the DEMO all day. 2K10 and NHL 10 never made it more than a game or to before being shut off out of frustration. I have a 360 that hasn't been turned on in months and now I can't turn it off.