NHL 16 Continues to Improve

[jake19ny]

I think both Millenium and Adam are right to an extent. I agree with Millenium that poke check is not the only way of defending. If you play proper position you can keep the CPU to the outside or force them to dump it in. Let's not forget how important that is by the way....while I would like them to do it more, I'm glad to see the CPU dump it. I love while penalty killing (I use large box) that by playing proper position I can keep the CPU to moving the puck around the outside. I also love that the CPU will keep moving the puck around the outside until a shot or good pass opens up.

I also agree with Adam that improvements could be made. Most of this revolves around the CPU defensive AI. While improved I still have wandering teammates occasionally and sometimes the CPU defense gets caught chasing you. I also notice that sometimes on a one on one the CPU defender will skate back with you but slightly off to the side allowing you a straight line to the net. I do love the idea that you just cannot skate around hitting guys. You really have to time your hits right or your giving up an odd man rush or breakaway. Likewise trying to just skate through a CPU defender will and should result in you knocked on your butt.

Overall though this article is spot on. Despite us hardcore hockey sim guys see room for improvement the fact were enjoying this game speaks volumes and I still think they are on the right track. Cheers!

[sportsgamer5761]

I have to agree. The improvement over NHL 15 is HUGE. While I'm still seeing a few too many of the 'laser pass to rocket one-timer' goals by the CPU, and some questionable positioning by my AI teammates, I'm having a lot of fun with this year's game. Last week, I played a 5-4, back-and-forth OT game that had a little bit of everything. If they can improve the AI goalies, CPU vacuum puck and board play, the game will take an even bigger leap next year.

[munky1307]

Will they ever bring back the play creator? That was a great feature that is yet to make it to the next GEN game.

[Pezell04x]

I only play EASHL, but man, I've been enjoying the hell out of it.

[hyacinth1]

Agree. Gameplay has vastly improved since release day. Only gripe is online still plays different. I also like this year the presentation is much better. They improved the atmosphere and the stadiums look unique now. Really feels like you're playing in different arena's this year.

[crosbie87]

Hi everyone,

I have taken almost a 2 month break from the game after frustration with sliders and unrealistic gameplay.

I see these comments and wondering what exactly changed the game ? Which patch was it and what did it do exactly ? Can some of you suggest a good slider set ? I am starting to get my hopes up again ...

[NEOPARADIGM]

Quote: Originally Posted by crosbie87

Hi everyone, I have taken almost a 2 month break from the game after frustration with sliders and unrealistic gameplay. I see these comments and wondering what exactly changed the game ? Which patch was it and what did it do exactly ? Can some of you suggest a good slider set ? I am starting to get my hopes up again ...

TNK's sliders are the closest to what I'm using (though I play on SS). Otherwise I was never on the bash train to begin with so can't really help there. Good luck.

[jake19ny]

Quote: Originally Posted by crosbie87

Hi everyone, I have taken almost a 2 month break from the game after frustration with sliders and unrealistic gameplay. I see these comments and wondering what exactly changed the game ? Which patch was it and what did it do exactly ? Can some of you suggest a good slider set ? I am starting to get my hopes up again ...

Not sure what they did but it's just better. I was ready to trade it in but in glad I didn't.
As far sliders there are a whole bunch in the sliders thread, I even posted my set. I'm sure they are all good but since we all play differently it's best to read through some of the slider threads and try a few until you find the one that suits you best.