NBA Live 16 Available Today, Post Your Impressions Here

[Calvenn]

Quote: Originally Posted by seanhazz1

I was going to say in regards to the CPU and those playing quick games or LUT modes, and "seeing something different every game"...... Here's a look at how Synergy Sports Promised to work with NBA Live at inception. Quote: "So how does Synergy Sports Technology work with NBA LIVE? Synergy Sports provides us a direct feed of player scouting DNA and Tendencies. We are then able to take this data and apply it to our game – which dynamically affects player tendencies in-game, as well as modes such as LIVE Seasons and Tonight’s Games. This information also tells us things that don’t appear in the box score, such as shots off the dribble or if a player was being guarded - which all influence ratings. One of the goals we have for the future of NBA LIVE is to remove subjectivity from player ratings and performance – a true 1:1 representation of each and every player in the league." "Another feature talked about in the article are BIG Moments, which "are key plays or stretches of the game such as a player having a huge quarter or a thrilling game winning buzzer beater. You then can play through these quick scenarios with the exact stats, tendencies, and line-ups on a per minute basis." I think that is the answer to the daily differences (except for the damn Warriors, lol) players who are playing other team modes, are experiencing. I've never personally tested this "feature", on a night per night update basis, but in testing, I'd say that the Warriors/76ers are the teams (luckily) to try this AGAINST. (they are the most extremely consistent/inconsistent teams theoretically, haven't deviated defensive tendencies much nightly as their records indicate). If they play generally the same a few games in a row, before a daily update, but the teams show deviations in defensive play style after updates, (synergy updates) then I think we will have helped to determine that Synergy is updating and working as intended now. What I'd like to know, is that if I play now in exhibition, in LUT, or against a friend or human opponent, a day after Batum goes for a triple double(last night), will he be represented as such in the game the following day as slightly boosted, (or reduced for a bad night) for such an outcome? I play mostly Dynasty, for mainly the synergy reason, but among various other reasons too, and is the reason why what I post as observations, often differ from what others playing other team modes experience. No, Its not perfect, and its not what those requesting NBA Live full player editing, want to acknowledge, but it works, and is updating daily, and is getting closer to the 1:1 they advertised. I'd like to see how they implement more player/team editing for those modes, but not at the sacrifice of a working synergy(yeah I said it). I think it could only work currently for a dynasty or online league feature, as well as the my player, because of other modes introduced that rely on it.

This is an interesting and valid topic. I am personally also curious to know how they will go about introducing (or re-introducing in Lives case) the editing function with Synergy intergrated. Giving us editing ability has to be a foregone conclusion by now i would hope , for ours and their sake! I do believe that it is having a more noticeable impact this year so far. On the flip side, the complaint around here is the inconsistent effect it induces, especially in relation to custom sliders. Is this a result of fine tuning? Currently several have abandoned slider adjustments because we don't know what's going on. If this transfers into the next installment of the game that would be truly troublesome and extremely frustrating for those of us who like to fine tune certain elements of the game to our liking. The name of the "game" in this day and age, is options and control (within reason of course), as we all know. I certainly hope EA gives us necessary, effective and stable control over such things, down to camera angle tilt and zoom options,etc,etc..


Anyhow, this is where hearing from EA or receiving some sort of validation or information from those on the "inside" would be extremely helpful for the community. As it stands, we're left no choice but to speculate and make assumptions. We all know where that can lead us! Now, in regards to Dynasty, it was always my understanding that Synergy did not impact the season and that stats were controlled and generated based on the offline season performances. I haven't really had the opportunity to verify. Either way, really curious how this will be handled next year.

[Calvenn]

Speaking of Synergy, has anyone noticed that the cpu defense has become more lax again? Am I the only one seeing or experiencing this? Today, I was able to dribble into the paint somewhat unimpeded for the slam with John Wall vs the Raptors on several occasios. Feels looser compared to a few days ago especially. Perhaps todays update has some bearing? I know tweaks will affect the game in different ways , however, I am definately looking forward to when things are more settled.

One nice change I have noticed after todays update is that we now have better control of human controlled players as they run toward the corner 3pt line. Normally, your momentum would have driven your player out of bounds (if the forcefield was not present). Now, you can square up your player to the basket with less effort for the shot.

[rudyjuly2]

Does anyone use the step back jumper? It never creates space for me so I rarely use it.

[seanhazz1]

Quote: Originally Posted by rudyjuly2

Does anyone use the step back jumper? It never creates space for me so I rarely use it.

It works great when you use the players that have the appropriate mid range rating and tendency to pull it off.

[Calvenn]

Input for the day. They have really improved defensive intensity and contact in this game while keeping the game challenging in regards to scoring effectiveness from the cpu (All Star level). Noticed these improvements today. Really like the balance I'm witnessing. Its no longer easy to sidestep and blow by cpu defenders with the quick first step option. Closeouts are improved and passing lane jumps and interceptions are more effective for both human and cpu! This really forces you to swing the ball around and be judicious with the shots you take. You will also see more benefit from executing plays during the course of the game. Also seeing more kickouts after rebounds.

I have to say that the game is truly finding that ever elusive sim/fun blend as they continue with fine tuning. Looking forward to what's in store for the future.

[Calvenn]

I decided to check out Superstar mode again after all the improvements being made to the game. I am happy to report that the positive changes have translated to this mode as well!

Here is a quick list of what I observed

1) Unlike initially, cpu mid range shooting has improved, and though the cpu can be aggressive in taking the ball to the hole (which you can deter more effectively if you allow the cpu to pick up the ball handler and roam off ball with another player to cut of penetration), you should still witness spontaneous pull ups from mid range. I do have to mention that I am not sure how I feel about those quick turn around fadeaway jumpers. Sometimes they seem appropriate while other times appear out of place.

2) I played against the Bulls last night and for the first time had to make defensive adjustments because I was being eaten alive otherwise ( I would think this need depends on the team you play as well) I changed the pressure level on Rose and flipped defensive assignments for Lebron and JR. Lebron now guarded Jimmy Butler. This was basically a necessity and a change that paid dividends in a nail biter game. Lets just say it was a sweat inducing adrenaline pumping experience!

3) The defense on this level is more effective during the last 2 minutes of the game when the cpu employs the full court press while down. Its not perfect but is more capable of tracking your player.

4) The cpu, particularly star players., come out to play on this level! Various animations, new and existing, were used more frequently and effectively during the course of the game! I mean, a player like D Rose showed the full arsenal from attacking the paint, distributing the ball and pulling up for jumpers, with or without the aid of picks!

5) Rebounding and steals appeared balanced for the most part.

6) Overall defense. There have been several times I made my way past my defender using a pick or special move (using special moves no longer as effective but doable), only to be bodied or blocked by the help defender or defenders at the hoop! The physical contact on this level is fanstastic! I have also noticed a more adaptable defense on this level, reflected during a recent game vs the Clippers where the cpu sent out a defender to counter my baseline picks which were successful on 2 previous possessions. I made sure to call the pick at the exact same spot on the floor, by the baseline, and on the 3rd and 4th attempts, Wesley Johnson and company came out to greet me . Finally, I observed a higher number of loose balls and pick offs generated by both human and cpu players, adding to the intensity and allowing for a more dynamic game on that side of the ball.


Since this is considered the ultimate level in Live16, have the right expectations going in. The cpu can frustrate and hit tough shots ( they will miss shots also due to the patch and tweaks) but if you remain focused and play a smart game you should be ultimately thrilled with the experience. Do keep in mind the game is continually being tweaked so therefore you may see some fluctuations. Hopefully the dev team will continue to keep this balance intact as we progress (today already, I think the game may be playing slightly looser not 100% certain on this one).

Also, if you haven't already, please turn ON the breakaway cam! I can't say enough how much this adds to the "realsim" and "action" factor. As you may have guessed, this is now going to be my "go to" level going forward.

[bigdnlaca]

Ok, I have both games. I didnt want to purchase it earlier because I remember Live 15 being so easy on Superstar where I can drive for a layup with an pg.

When I played this game, I must say that this game is great on SS with sliders that will lower shooting percentages, increase collisions and blocking. I was amazed on how sim it can be if you have the right settings.

My main mode was franchise and I wanted to see how it is after 2 years, so I simmed it. I saw that most players that is a no brainer to resign did sign with their current team. There were also a few good players that moved but it was understandable. So basically, I think CPU logic is decent in the offseason.

Now is this game perfect? Nope, but I played the other game and that game has flaws also. Is it a sim? On default, it isn't but it does have enough sliders to make it that way. is it fun? Yes!!!

[subinate027]

Hard time deciding 2k16 or Live 16? How does live 16 play now with all these patches compared to 2k16?