Tuesday, May 26, 2015

NBA 2K16 Announced Along with Pre-Order Bonuses

NBA 2K16, the next iteration of the top-rated NBA video game simulation series for the past 15 years*, will offer fans an unprecedented Early Tip-Off Weekend, putting the full game into the hands of fans four days ahead of the scheduled street date. Beginning today, fans can pre-order NBA 2K16 at participating North American retail and online vendors, ensuring they receive their copy beginning on Friday, September 25, four days ahead of the game’s September 29 street date, along with in-game bonuses.

NBA 2K16 promises to be one of the most groundbreaking sports titles in video game history, combining exciting new features with uncanny realism,” said Alfie Brody, vice president of marketing for NBA 2K. “We’re always seeking new ways to excite and ignite our fans’ tremendous passion for the franchise, and offering unmatched early access is just another way to bring them closer to the on-court action they crave.”


In addition to Early Tip-Off Weekend access, NBA 2K16 pre-orders will include the following in-game bonuses:


  • 10,000 Virtual Currency (VC);

  • MyTEAM VIP Package:
    • New-Gen & PC – 3 MyTEAM Emerald Packs each with a guaranteed Emerald player;

    • Prior-Gen –  MyTEAM Gold Booster Pack with Guaranteed Gold Player and 4 additional Gold items.


NBA 2K16 will be available for PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment systems, the Xbox One all-in-one games and entertainment system and Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft; and Windows PC platforms on September 29, 2015.


Follow @NBA2K on social media for the latest NBA 2K16 news.



NBA 2K16 Announced Along with Pre-Order Bonuses

Monday, May 25, 2015

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update (5/25-5/30)

There were many other updates, but these were the top 20 players.  Please see the Video below for exact attribute changes


Key roster updates:


Craig Kimbrel 96-94

Bryce Harper 90-94

Robinson Cano 96-93

Troy Tulowitzki 96-93

Nelson R. Cruz 88-90

Dee Gordon 86-89

Jason Kipnis 84-87

Freddie Freeman 84-87

Andrelton Simmons 88-87

Todd Frazier 84-87

Shelby Miller 83-87

Russell Martin 83-86

Matt Carpenter 84-86

Kyle Seager 87-85

Ryan Braun 84-85

Anibal Sanchez 85-84

Ian Desmond 86-84

Alex Gordon 84-85

Edwin Encarnacion 86-84

Prince Fielder 82-84

Chris Davis 85-84

Jeff Samardzija 84-83

Brandon Crawford 79-83

Jason Hammel 78-82

Jose Iglesias 78-82

Matt Kemp 85-82

Ubaldo Jimenez 76-81


This week’s challenge of the week includes Joe Mauer vs Koji Uehara.  There is no prize for this week.


Tip: Stay back on Koji’s splitter and try to drive everything up the middle or opposite field.  Koji does not throw very hard and Mauer has great contact and plate vision.  Do not be afraid to use contact the entire time.


MLB15_The_Show_Roster_Update_5-25-15 MLB15_The_Show_Roster_Update_5-25-15-2


 



MLB 15 The Show Roster Update (5/25-5/30)

MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Market Watch May 11-17

We are going to take a look at some players that may be getting upgrades/downgrades.  Most of these players are expecting to make that jump to a new card tier, so make sure you keep an eye on these players!  Keep in mind SDS is usually a week or two behind before they give out the upgrades and if a player I mention does not get an upgrade then be patient.  It may take a few weeks, but it is still smarter to buy them while they are cheap rather than waiting until the last second!  Also, make sure to snag these cards over the weekend since the market is usually a buyer’s market due to the weekly packs.  You can see the latest MLB 15 The Show roster changers at DaddyLeagues.


Players to watch:


Jose Altuve-Altuve is right on the borderline to becoming a Diamond.  He was a bit lucky last year with a .360 BABIP, but his speed and ability to hit liners/groundballs helped that stat for sure.  The metrics suggest he is about where he should be at.  I personally don’t believe he will become a Diamond.


Dellin Betances- He is becoming the league’s best reliever.  He has a 13+ K rate with a 0 ERA.  In my opinion, he should become a Diamond.  I don’t know if SDS will upgrade him to a Diamond since he does not even close, but he will keep getting upgrades.  Invest now!  This may be the only Diamond reliever!


Jake Odorizzi- Tampa Bay needs some love!  They are one of the best pitching teams in MLB and are in first place.  Odorizzi is a big part of that.  Watch him for to possibly become a gold within the next few weeks if Tampa keeps playing well.


Brad Boxberger– He has been one of the leagues best closers and the metrics support this.  Look for him to get a 2-3+ upgrade and possibly becoming a gold down the road.


Michael Wacha-Wacha is in the same boat as Shelby Miller was.  The metrics show that Wacha is getting a bit lucky and win/loss does not mean much.  I still say he will become a gold, like Shelby Miller.  Despite his metrics, he is 7-0 with a sub 2 ERA.  Look for Wacha to become an 86 overall next week.


Kolten Wong- Wong is one of the league’s second basemen and the metrics support this arguement.  He should become an 85-86 overall within the next few weeks.


Jaime Garcia- Garcia has a chance to become a silver.  You may want to snag a few while they are dirt cheap.


Tim Lincecum– Metrics show he is getting a bit lucky, but nonetheless he has good base stats.  Look for him to jump up a point or two.


Joe Panik– Panik has been one of the better second basemens, but is still a bronze.  Metrics suggest he is not getting lucky either.  Look for Panik to keep hitting well in real life and to jump up to a silver 78-80 overall for next update.  He may become a gold eventually, but this won’t be for a few months.


Brad Ziegler- Arizona converted him to closer and he is doing very well.  He will go to a silver eventually.


Jhonny Peralta- Despite the recent upgrade, I still say Peralta has a good chance to become a gold.  He is one of the league’s best SS’s the past 2 years.  It may take a few weeks, but you can snag him while he is still cheap the next few days.


Jung-ho Kang– He is killing the ball and I expect him to start playing everyday at 3b/ss for Pittsburg.  He is similar to Peralta as he is a bigger SS with some power.  I expect him to up to a Silver.


Jimmy Parades- He just keeps improving and is still a bronze.  He is on his way to a Silver eventually.


Avisail Garcia- He is in the same boat as Parades.  Invest now while he is cheap.


Anthony Gose- He is still hitting .336.  I don’t see how his contact is not higher, despite if the metrics say he is getting lucky.  He is still very cheap, so there is no risk in buying a few.


Prince Fielder- Fielder is back to his 2011/2012 self.  He is absolutely killing the ball and needs even more hitting upgrades, despite his recent update.  This should knock him to an 86-87 overall within the next few weeks.


Gio Gonzalez-His ERA is inflated and he is pitching better now.  The metrics show that his ERA should be around a 3.  Buy him while he is cheap and in anticipation that he may drop even more.  This is more of a long term project, but I believe he will become a gold later on.


 


Downgrades:

Troy Tulowitzki-
Again, Tulo has been awful actually.  He does not deserve a Diamond at all.  I think it is just a matter of time before he drops rapidly.  Sell now, especially before the packs hit this Friday!


Carlos Gonzalez- Cargo is doing awful as well and I don’t see him staying an 80+ for that long.  His hitting and defense are still overrated and SDS was just being cautious with the last downgrade.  In reality, he should be a bronze.


Robinson Cano- Same situation as Tulo….Sell now!  He already dropped this week and should drop to a Gold soon.  He is aging and just has not hit that well.


Adrian Beltre- Beltre’s defense is still solid, but he has not really hit all that great.  He may pick it up a bit, but since Cano/Tulo got recent downgrades then I expect Beltre to lose 1-2 points as well.


Jason Heyward-Heyward definitely deserves a downgrade.  As I mentioned before, I don’t think he will drop to a bronze, but his price could fall under 500.  Sell now!


Stephen Strasburg- Strasburg has decent metrics actually, but he just has not put it together.  He is awful with runners on and his K rate is down.  Sell now before he gets another downgrade!  Then I’d recommend re-investing once he hits silver, because I think he is too good to have a 5+ ERA.


Devin Mesoraco– He has become useless this year and has lost all his power.  It is only a matter of time before he gets a huge downgrade.  Sell while you can!


Josh Harrison– He is off to a rough start and the metrics suggested that Harrison got a little bit lucky last year.  Pitchers are now figuring out how to pitch to him and his BABIP is now normal.  I expect Harrison to drop 1-2 points this week.


Chris Davis- He is looking more like the Davis from last year rather than 2 years ago.  I expect him to keep dropping.


Jose Bautista- His hitting attributes should take a hit.  I expect him to become a silver eventually.


 



MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Market Watch May 11-17

MLB 15 The Show Pulse Pitching Guide



Welcome to the fourth episode in my series, The Show Training 101, where we’ll take an in-depth look at various mechanics and control schemes, analyze how they’re implemented in MLB 15 The Show, and explore the ways in which you can leverage your newfound knowledge to take your game to the next level.



Today, we’ll be taking a look at pulse pitching. So what exactly is pulse pitching? Well, it’s a simple timing based mechanic that allows the user to control the accuracy of the pitch. After selecting your pitch, a circle surrounding the pitch marker will start pulsating, after which you can move that pitch marker to your desired location with the left stick. Your goal here? Press the X button as the pitching ring contracts to its smallest possible size. The smaller the cursor, the more accurate the pitch will be. The larger the cursor; the less accurate you’ll be. Easy enough.


MLB15_The_Show_Pulse_Pitching3


Now there are multiple variables that influence the speed of the pulsing, as well as the outer and inner limits of the pitch ring. The pitching difficulty level along with the type of pitch selected governs the general speed and size of the pitch cursor. Additionally, a fastball is the easiest pitch to control, and as such, the pitch cursor is correspondingly slower and smaller, allowing the user to more easily time the mechanic. The smaller meter provides greater accuracy via contracted outer and inner limits of the pulse, which effectively decreases the range of possible pitch location results. Conversely, a breaking pitch is more difficult to control, and is correspondingly represented by an increase to pulse size and speed. Now remember, with pulse pitching, you only control the accuracy of the pitch. The velocity, break, and effectiveness of the pitch is a product of player ratings.


OK. So now that we have a better understanding of the mechanic, a new question is raised. That is, how do we best control the accuracy of the pitch? Or rather, how can we master the timing of the mechanic to ensure greater precision when on the mound? Many members of The Show community have expressed difficulty executing the pulse pitching mechanic consistently. When attempting to pitch as the cursor is at its smallest point, most find that their reflexes aren’t quite quick enough on the draw, and by the time their thumb makes contact with the controller, the cursor has already expanded. The result; an extremely inaccurate pitch. This problem stems from our inherent inability to react quickly enough to a fast-moving target, especially on higher difficulty levels. We first see the pitch cursor contract to its smallest point, and then our brain tells us to throw the pitch, at which point the pulse is expanding once again. Timing the mechanic won’t work well. It’s EXTREMELY difficult. Instead, to master the mechanic, we must BECOME the mechanic. Yes, I know how that sounds. But bare with me.



MLB15_The_Show_Pulse_Pitching1


Pulse pitching works in a rhythmic fashion; the pitching ring expands outwards and then contracts in uniform speed. With this knowledge in place, let us then use our thumb as a make-shift metronome to help time the pulse. Let me show you exactly what I mean. By placing your thumb over the X button on the controller, and moving it up and down in accordance with the pulse of the pitch, you create a handmade metronome. Literally. Before executing the pitch, make sure your rhythm matches that of the pulse, and instead of using the visual cue of the pitch cursor to determine when to press down on the controller, the physical movement of our thumb’s oscillating motion will regulate our decision regarding when to time the pitch. Lastly, after ensuring that our thumb’s movement matches the pulse, we can finally execute the pitch as our thumb naturally descends towards the controller. And there you go. Your thumb movement should synchronize with a condensed pitch cursor. An accurate pitch.


So that’s all for this week. Just remember, with pulse pitching, we’re relying more on our thumb’s back and forth motion than our eyes to time the mechanic precisely. By employing a slightly crude but nonetheless effective timing mechanism via a makeshift, thumb-derived metronome, we can more accurately time the pulse of the pitch. The result; you’ll be painting the corners and striking out batters with reckless abandon. Clayton Kershaw style.


Pulse Pitching. Time the pulse. Be the pulse. Simple.


Be sure to check out my other MLB 15 The Show Guides here:


MLB 15 The Show Zone Hitting Guide


MLB 15 The Show Analog Hitting Guide


MLB 15 The Show Directional Hitting Guide





 



MLB 15 The Show Pulse Pitching Guide

NBA 2K15 MyTeam Tips: The Importance of Having a Bench

sam_pham_cartoonLast week on SGO I demonstrated how strong the GSW playbook can be in MyTeam RTTP. This week I am going show everyone some rotation tips, plus a player value comparison between Ruby Teague and Onyx Billups.


 


Rotation Tips: The Importance of Having a Bench

With the way RTTP is build, every team you face from 4th seed onwards is going to be stacked. In the following video, you will see my starters failing me and almost cost me the game. If it wasn’t for my Onyx Manu Ginobili, I would’ve got blown out. You can see in the gameplay how Manu changed the game for my squad in a short span of four minutes.



The lesson here is make sure to grab a player with the Spark Plug Badge (whom you are comfortable with using) when assembling your RTTP squad. Everyone you face will have an All Star Team, a lot of the time your sixth-man can make the difference between a win and a lost. So go out there and find your own “Ginobili”. 




​Player Value Comparison: Onyx Billups vs Ruby Teague


In this video I did a gameplay comparison between Onyx Billups and Ruby Teague. Based on market value on the PS4, Onyx Billups cost around 32000-35000 MT while Ruby Teague hovers around 6500-8500 MT. Unless you got a lot of MT in hand, deciding which PG to go with can be a make or break roster decision for you as the GM of your squad. 



The success rate of your decision depends on how willing you are to accommodate your team to the skill set of the PG you choose. Billups is indeed close to three folds the cost of Teague; however, his ability to set up his teammates and shoot the 3-ball are leagues above Jeff Teague. I suggest pick up Billups if you are already filled with capable wing scorers; he will run your offense and play hard defense for you.


For my squad, The PhamTastics, I ended up going with Teague. His incredible quickness and change of pace style suits my squad of spot up shooters much better. In the gameplay I showed above, Teague won the game for me with a buzzer beater plus 4 quarters of hard offensive work.


In the end, who you choose will depend on your MT and roster. Just never forget, as you bring in a new player make sure they suit your squad and complement it in some way. Picking up a player because he is more expensive or slightly higher rated aren’t always the best reasons for making a major roster change.


Hope you guys enjoyed my MyTeam tips this week alongside my PhamTastic Series. Let me know what you think, and I will see you next time ^_^



NBA 2K15 MyTeam Tips: The Importance of Having a Bench

Saturday, May 23, 2015

Prime Time and Ballers Pack Added to MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty

Sony San Diego added two new Limited Edition Packs into the MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Store Checkout more info below on these new packs.


Prime Time Players (15,000 Stubs) – 3 Players and 1 Equipment item. 1 Guaranteed Gold Players. 1 Guaranteed Gold or Higher Equipment item. Over 25x higher chance for Diamond players!


Ballers Pack (35,000 Stubs) – 3 Players and 1 Equipment item. 2 Guaranteed Gold or Higher Players. 1 Guaranteed Gold or Higher Equipment item. Over 100x higher chance for Diamond players!



Prime Time and Ballers Pack Added to MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty

Friday, May 22, 2015

Madden 16 Connected Franchise Creative Director Kolbe Launchbaugh Interview

The VSN Arcade Radio Podcast has an interview with EA Sports Creative Director Kolbe Launchbaugh on what we can expect to see in Madden 16 Connected Franchise Mode.


Here are a few highlights from the interview:


-Wants to bring imagination back to the CFM and how they are forced to pick and choose what improvements and features they add based upon the resources at their disposal.


-Despite what many believe MUT’s development team is not bigger than CFM’s development team.


-States CFM has gotten a lot of attention this year and is a much more FULL version this year.


-Two technical designers worked full time on tuning and balancing CFM.


-CFM contains the most hardcare but also the most casual players of the mode so balancing is very important.


-Easy to trade player, adjust depth chart, release free agents, much more straightforward and clear.


-Better draft integration.


-Scouting has been made more in-depth so the best players aren’t as easily identified and you are forced to “guess” more on players just like the real NFL.


This interview has us exciced for CFM in Madden 16!


 


 


 


 


 



 


 



Madden 16 Connected Franchise Creative Director Kolbe Launchbaugh Interview

Thursday, May 21, 2015

NHL 16 Developer Q & A Part 3

It’s really great the developers are taking this opportunity to connect with the community and see what’s on our minds. Checkout the Q & A below!


Will you be able to edit players in GM Mode? After trades, goalies sometimes have terrible colour schemes for their equipment. Not to mention masks from other teams. Also when will we be able to resign players before the resign phase? I found that was the only unrealistic part of the game trading/signing wise. Thanks.


You will not have the ability to edit players in GM mode. We prioritized bringing back features like AHL Integration, Fantasy Draft and Sim Intervention back to Be A GM over this. This is something we will continue to look at. As for the resign phase Be A GM does not have contract extensions and contract signing/negotiations during the season at this moment. Our version of this is the resign phase in free agency which is a week before the July 1st free agency period that allows you to renegotiate with your own players before open free agency.


Will the custom camera modes return in NHL 16? (custom 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5)


Custom cameras are currently lower on our priority list. At the moment, we’re working on a new camera for Be A Pro, OTP and EASHL.


Why aren’t there authentic coaches in the NHL series, and why isn’t there an option to hire/fire coaches in be a gm mode?


Authentic coaches are definitely something that we’re looking at moving forward. The main reason that they’re not currently in the game is due to licensing. Hire/Fire coaches is a feature that we will continue to investigate.


Will we see defensive skill stick in NHL 16?


We will not be adding a new defensive skill stick in NHL 16 but what we are doing is ensuring that all defensive mechanics are tuned and balanced so that it’s fun to play every position on the ice. For example, Precision Skating will help you on the defensive side of the puck giving you the ability to close passing and shooting lanes more effectively.


Will you FINALLY have the correct goal horns for ALL teams? For the longest time, EA has used Detroit’s goal horn for Dallas’ goal horn.


We are doing our best this year to get the moments around goals for each team as authentic as possible. A big focus has gone into that area and we have definitely paid close attention to the fan sites dedicated to teams unique goal moment presentation.


Will there ever be the introduction of a skills competition into the NHL series? Years ago the ‘2K’ series had it and I found it was an exciting offline mode, that foreseeably would be able to incorporate online modes also.


We will never say ‘no’ to great feature ideas. We are always looking to add fun modes and features that are authentic to the NHL experience. We focused this year on the modes and features that were the most requested by the community with a prime focus on ensuring there was a way for everyone to play and will continue to do so.


Does the new EASHL still allow us to put XP into our players stats?


That’s a good question! In developing the new EASHL, we conducted a ton of research and really engaged with the fans. The feedback we got was that gameplay balance and a level playing field are of high importance. Because the previous EASHL allowed users to grow their pro characters’ attributes by investing time or money, EASHL players who started playing after launch or who didn’t purchase the boosts were often at a disadvantage. While we know it’s fun to boost your pro, it takes away from the goal of making EASHL the best way to compete as a team. With the new balanced player class system, EASHL players of all levels can play and succeed based on their skill on the sticks.


In EASHL will you be able to create and name your own teams so you can invite your friends? Also will you be able to customize your skaters attributes or will it be pre-set classes? Will there be leaderboards for the teams & skaters? I appreciate you guys taking the time to answer my questions.


Hi Lyle, thanks for your questions. EASHL is a team-based game mode where you can create/customize your own club and compete alongside your friends. New to EASHL in NHL 16 is the player class system where players can select from a set of carefully balanced skater and goalie classes. This is tuned in a way so that the strengths/weaknesses of each class are authentic to hockey. It’s up to you and your team on what combination of classes best suits your play style. As far as leaderboards go, there will be club and player stats available.


With couch coop online on Xbox one, will we be able to have multiple people per couch?


Hi Dallas. With online couch co-op (on both Xbox One and PS4), you and three other friends can play cooperatively in a head to head online match.


I just want plain old, regular Season Mode. Beginning to end, including playoffs and the cup. Please don’t skimp on the basics that built this franchise!


Season Mode with playoffs is in the game and you will be able to play in any of the 10 leagues in NHL 16.


Are the EASHL playoffs going to be monthly again?


The playoff feature as part of Online Seasons will be the same as the previous EASHL. We’re listening to our fans to determine what the right cadence of playoffs is.


Is there going to be a shootout mode in NHL 16?


Shootout mode is not in NHL 16, but it’s something we’re continuing to look into.


In be a GM, Will there be “expectations” like in NHL 14 where the owner told you have win this many games or make it to this round of playoffs. NHL 15 lack emotion in Be a GM.


Be A GM will not have expectations like NHL 14 but to bring out the emotion of being a real General Manager we will have the new Player Morale feature which will bring out the player interaction a real GM has to deal with in his dressing room.


Can you play in the european leagues in Be a Pro?


You will not be able to play in the European leagues in Be A Pro.


In BeAGM mode, will I be able to see my AHL/CHL players statistics?


We will have AHL integration in Be A GM. So you will be able to have statistics for your AHL players as well as be able to play games with your AHL team. We do not have statistics for CHL players in Be A GM.


Hello, I would like to ask why you can not play in GM mode for two teams at once. Thus, to be able to two players on two drivers play one season for the two teams. This feature should be the basis for a game console that is designed for multiple players in the home. The option will be in NHL 16? Thank you


We will have Season Mode in NHL 16 that will allow multiple users to play together thru one season as two separate teams.



 



NHL 16 Developer Q & A Part 3

Madden 16 New Screenshots: Be The Playmaker

EA Sports has released new Madden 16 Screenshots and given more details on their “Be the Playmaker” features.  Check out the new screenshots & details below and check back daily for new Madden 16 information in the coming weeks.



“The NFL is full of playmakers, and Madden NFL 16 brings them to life with all-new WR/DB interactions.Place the ball where only your receiver can get it with body-relative throws including high-point, low-point, back-shoulder, and the ever-popular touch pass. Receivers and defenders deliver the most authentic exchanges to date. Madden NFL 16 features a variety of new two-man interactions. Improved time of day and lighting helps highlight Madden NFL 16’s updated player likenesses. Your playmaker highlight reel has arrived with new player spotlights, dynamic goals and achievements, and innovative on-the-field cameras bringing you closer to the game than ever before.”


 



Madden 16 New Screenshots: Be The Playmaker

MLB 15 The Show Limited Edition Upgraded Camo Equipment

In honor of Memorial Day MLB 15 The Show will have a limited edition camo gear that will be in packs randomly through Monday 25th.  Make sure you play this weekend so you won’t miss out on the limited edition equipment!


 



MLB 15 The Show Limited Edition Upgraded Camo Equipment

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update (May 18th)

Here is the latest MLB 15 The Show Roster Update from SCEA.


PLAYERS ADDED THIS WEEK
PLAYERS TEAM SKIN TONE

Ramirez_JC ARI 8

Wright_Mike BAL 6

Shaw_Travis BOS 6

Beck_Chris CHW 6

Syndergaard_Noah NYM 6

Castro_Angel OAK 10

Bellatti_Andrew TAM 6

Field_Tommy TEX 6

Tepera_Ryan TOR 6


TRANSACTION HIGHLIGHTS

SP Kevin Gausman moved from Orioles Relief to Orioles Minors.

SP Justin Masterson moved from Red Sox Starting to Red Sox Minors.

1B Allen Craig moved from Red Sox Bench to Red Sox Minors.

CF Jackie Bradley Jr. moved from Red Sox Minors to Red Sox Bench.

RF Shane Victorino moved from Red Sox Minors to Red Sox Position.

SP Drew Smyly moved from Rays Starting to Rays Minors.

SP Alex Colome moved from Rays Minors to Rays Starting.

LF Michael Saunders moved from Blue Jays Position to Blue Jays Minors.

2B Emilio Bonifacio moved from White Sox Bench to White Sox Position.

2B Micah Johnson moved from White Sox Position to White Sox Minors.

SS Alcides Escobar moved from Royals Minors to Royals Position.

SP Chris Young moved from Royals Relief to Royals Starting.

SP Jason Vargas moved from Royals Starting to Royals Minors.

CF Aaron Hicks moved from Twins Minors to Twins Position.

RP Edward Mujica moved from Free Agent 1 to A’s Relief.

DH Mitch Moreland moved from Rangers Minors to Rangers Position.

CP AJ Ramos moved from Marlins Relief to Marlins Closer.

RP Steve Cishek moved from Marlins Closer to Marlins Relief.

3B Cody Asche moved from Phillies Position to Phillies Minors.

3B Maikel Franco moved from Phillies Minors to Phillies Position.

RF George Springer moved from Astros Minors to Astros Position.

CF Jon Jay moved from Cardinals Position to Cardinals Minors.

CF Peter Bourjos moved from Cardinals Bench to Cardinals Position.

SP Archie Bradley moved from D’backs Minors to D’backs Starting.

SP Tyler Matzek moved from Rockies Starting to Rockies Minors.

1B Yonder Alonso moved from Padres Position to Padres Minors.



MLB 15 The Show Roster Update (May 18th)

New Xbox Features Now Available in Preview

Major Nelson posted a preview of the new Xbox experience across devices with new features like streaming and some old features like avatars making a return.  Checkout the video above and listing of features below.



 


Xbox on Windows 10

Here’s a closer look at the great new features coming to Xbox on Windows 10 with this month’s Xbox app preview:


Avatars – You can now download and launch the Avatars app from within the Xbox app. After the app is installed, select Customize > Customize your avatar to launch the Avatars app and edit, dress up, and buy new items for your avatar.


Friends updates – We’re making it easier to add friends, designate them as favorites and share your name from the Xbox app. The friends list will also show you which of your friends are in a party, playing multiplayer games, or broadcasting. You can also report or block people from the Xbox app.


Game hubs – Similar to Xbox One, you can now view the game hub for an Xbox One game and view the activity feed curated by the game’s community manager. Click on any game tile, under Home > Recently played or elsewhere in the Xbox app, and you will be taken to the game hub.


Game DVR – You can now alter the keyboard shortcuts used for opening the Game Bar, starting and stopping recording, taking screenshots, and more. Also, you can now view and manage your cloud-based game clips from the Xbox app by selecting Game DVR > Shared.


Testing streaming – The Xbox team needs your help in providing information about your PC’s performance and connectivity characteristics as we prepare to enable game streaming from Xbox One to Windows 10 PCs. To do this, connect your Xbox One to your Windows 10 PC using the Xbox app: from the Connect menu, select your Xbox One console then choose Connect. Once connected, click on Test streaming to anonymously send the team diagnostic information about your PC and network settings.


Turn On/Off your Xbox One Console – The Connect menu in Xbox app has been updated to let you power your Xbox One on and off from your Windows 10 devices when they are on the same home network as your console.


The Xbox app will sign in using your primary Microsoft Account and associated gamertag that you use to sign into Windows 10. If you want to sign in with a different gamertag, you will need to set up a second Microsoft account on your Windows 10 PC. The ability to sign into the Xbox app with a different Microsoft Account/Xbox Profile will be re-enabled in a future update.


Xbox One updates

The Xbox team is gearing up for E3 in June and we’ve got some exciting things to share with you there, but first, this month we’re continuing to preview a few things while we gather feedback and work toward making them available to everyone.


Xbox One Digital TV Tuner in 11 new European countries – The team will continue to test the Xbox One Digital TV with our preview audience in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, and Switzerland, with plans to make it available to all customers in these countries later this summer. Earlier this week, we announced the retail availability of an over-the-air TV tuner for the U.S. & Canada as well.


Wireless Display app – We appreciate all the great feedback you’ve sent us and the team continues to make improvements to the Miracast functionality in the Wireless Display app based on that feedback. Keep it coming!


For more details about each of these features coming in the Preview update, check out the Xbox Wire.


We’ll continue to bring more great Xbox features your way on Xbox One and the Xbox app on Windows 10. Don’t forget to let us know what you think at Xbox Feedback.



New Xbox Features Now Available in Preview

FIFA 15 Ultimate Team: Team of the Season Released

The FIFA Ultimate Team of the Season features players who were consistent throughout this season, but were never given an IF card. This year’s TOTS feature players from the Gold, Silver and Bronze community.  Just as champions are crowned in the domestic leagues of Europe, we can now crown the best players of the season.


The launch times for release of TOTS :


Xbox 9pm UK


PlayStation 10pm UK


PC/Mobile 11pm UK


 


Community Gold


FIFA15_gold-tots



Starting XI


  • GK: Łukasz Fabiański – Swansea City (England)

  • RB: Nathaniel Clyne – Southampton (England)

  • CB: Ezequiel Garay – Zenit St. Petersburg (Russia)

  • LB: Marcelo – Real Madrid (Spain)

  • CM: Jordan Henderson – Liverpool FC (England)

  • CM: Marco Verratti – Paris Saint-Germain (France)

  • CM: Claudio Marchisio – Juventus (Italy)

  • CM: Tiago – Atlético de Madrid (Spain)

  • LW: Nolito – Celta de Vigo (Spain)

  • ST: Demba Ba – Beşiktaş JK (Turkey)

  • ST: Jackson Martínez – FC Porto (Portugal)

Substitutes & Reserves


  • GK: Roberto – Olympiakos (Greece)

  • LB: Caner Erkin – Fenerbahçe SK (Turkey)

  • LB: Jetro Willems – PSV (The Netherlands)

  • CB: Stefan De Vrij – Lazio (Italy)

  • CB: Virgil van Dijk – Celtic (Scotland)

  • CDM: Nemanja Matic – Chelsea (England)

  • CDM: Bibars Natkho – CSKA Moskva (Russia)

  • CDM: Morgan Schneiderlin – Southampton (England)

  • CDM: Maxime Gonalons – Olympique Lyonnais (France)

  • CM: Jordy Clasie – Feyenoord (The Netherlands)

  • RM: Karim Bellarabi – Bayer 04 Leverkusen (Germany)

  • ST: Alexander Meier – Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany)

 


Community Silver


FIFA15_SILVER-tots




Starting XI


  • GK: Gabriel – Carpi (Italy)

  • LB: Ryan Bertrand – Southampton (England)

  • CB: Kevin Wimmer – 1. FC Köln (Germany)

  • CB: Sven van Beek – Feyenoord (The Netherlands)

  • RB: Igor Smolnikov – Zenit St. Petersburg (Russia)

  • LW: Paul-Georges Ntep – Stade Rennais FC (France)

  • CM: Pascal Groß – FC Ingostadt 04 (Germany)

  • CM: Stefan Johansen – Celtic (Scotland)

  • RM: Carlos Sánchez – River Plate (Argentina)

  • ST: Paulo Dybala – Palermo (Italy)

  • ST: Troy Deeney – Watford (England)

Substitutes & Reserves


  • GK:  Kwoun Sun Tae – Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (Korea)

  • LB: Gayà – Valencia (Spain)

  • CB: Rincón – ES Troyes AC (France)

  • CM: Jone Samuelsen – Odd BK (Norway)

  • LM: Luke Freeman – Bristol City (England)

  • CAM: Julio Álvarez – Deportivo Numancia (Spain)

  • LM: Shkelzen Gashi – FC Basel (Switzerland)

  • RM: Volkan Şen – Bursaspor (Turkey)

  • LM: Ian Henderson – Rochdale (England)

  • LM: Marcel Sabitzer – Red Bull Salzburg (Austria)

  • ST: Markus Rosenberg – Malmö FF (Sweden)

  • ST: Callum Wilson – Bournemouth (England)

 


 


Community Bronze


FIFA15_BRONZE-tots




Starting XI


  • GK: Christian Mathenia – SV Darmstadt 98 (Germany)

  • CB: Kim Kee Hee – Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (Korea)

  • CB: Jason Denayer – Celtic (Scotland)

  • RB: Tomasz Kędziora – Lech Poznań (Poland)

  • RB: Ozan Tufan – Bursaspor (Turkey)

  • CM: Corentin Tolisso – Lyon (France)

  • LM: Billy Dennehy – Cork City (Rep. of Ireland)

  • RW: Camillo Ciano – Crotone (Italy)

  • CM: Daniel Johnson – Chesterfield (England)

  • ST: Omar Al Soma – Al-Ahli (Saudi Arabia)

  • ST: Munas Dabbur – Grasshopper-Club (Switzerland)

Substitutes & Reserves


  • GK: Volkan Babacan – İstanbul Başakşehir SK (Turkey)

  • GK: Jayson Leutwiler – Shrewsburg (England)

  • CB: Ben Gibson – Middleborough (England)

  • RB: Jonas Svensson – Rosenborg BK (Norway)

  • CDM: Roly Bonevacia – Wellington Phoenix FC (Australia)

  • LWB: Joe Bryan – Bristol City (England)

  • CM: Richard Towell – Dundalk (Rep. of Ireland)

  • ST: Mads Hvilsom – Hobro IK (Denmark)

  • ST: Greg Stewart – Dundee FC (Scotland)

  • ST: Sergi Enrich – Deportivo Numancia (Spain)

  • ST: Igor Portnyagin – Rubin Kazan (Russia)

  • ST: Matt Done – Sheffield United (England)

 




Team Card Screenshots

Gold Community TOTS



Silver Community TOTS 



Bronze Community TOTS




FIFA 15 Ultimate Team: Team of the Season Released

NBA LIVE 15 Roster Update: May 21


The latest NBA Live 15 Roster Update was released today with bumps to JR Smith and drops across the board to the Chicago Bulls. Checkout the full release below.


After a disappointing start to the regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers went out and acquired the likes of J.R. Smith, Iman Shumpert, and Timofey Mozgov to provide perimeter depth as well as rim protection.


All three players were critical in the Cavs’ six-game win over the Chicago Bulls, especially Smith. The former Sixth Man of the Year scored 12 points and grabbed eight rebouns in the Game 6 clincher. 


For his efforts, Smith’s OVR rating improves one point to 81 in the latest NBA LIVE 15 Roster Update.





For the Bulls, it was another disappointing playoff exit at the hands of LeBron James. The loss marks the third time in five seasons that Chicago has fallen to LeBron’s team (twice with Miami, once with the Cavs).


Six different Bulls see their OVR ratings fall one point this week, including center Joakim Noah, who averaged just 5 PPG on 33% shooting in the series.




This NBA LIVE 15 roster update includes more than 1,200 ratings changes and 11 player accessory updates.


The update also resets the recently eliminated Bulls, Wizards, Clippers and Grizzlies to their “prime” lineups.




NBA LIVE 15 Roster Update: May 21

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

NHL 16 Developer Q & A Part 2

Today we have a continuation of yesterday’s NHL 16 Developer Q & A as they answer more of your submitted questions. It’s really great the developers are taking this opportunity to connect with the community and see what’s on our minds. Checkout the Q & A below!
Will there be any smartglass or kinect integration? It would be sweet to be able to edit/change lines with smartglass.


There will not be Smartglass or Kinect integration.


Will Be a GM Mode include a Fantasy Draft option?


Yes!


So are you guy gonna add the ECHL i would like to see it and play as my favorite team in that league but for 3 years the same leagues have been in the game. Is there a reason you guys wont add it?


NHL 16 will have 10 leagues in our game. NHL, AHL, CHL (OHL, WHL, QMJHL), SHL, Liiga, DEL, Extraliga and Nationalliga. We are always looking for new opportunities within the hockey world but there will be no new leagues for NHL 16.


Will offline season-mode be back in NHL 16?


Yes. Season is back in NHL 16.


Once a Player Score a Hat Trick, will there be an animation for it?


Yes, home fans will celebrate hat tricks by showering the ice with hats in NHL 16.


Are Online Shootouts coming back? If not why?


Online Shootouts are definitely a priority for us. At this point, I cannot commit to a timeframe.


When is the first trailer coming out?


We will be unveiling our first official trailer at E3, but keeping following us on our NHL social channels for information and visuals from NHL 16.


Will there be a NBC Playoff Presentations before Playoff games?


Yes, we have continued to add pre-game analysis from Doc and Eddie when there is a specific story to mention. You will hear of streaks, home stand and road trip success, etc. In the playoffs, there is always something for them to cover based on the current series score and how the games have gone so far within the current match-up.


Have you done any upgrade or update on the physics part of the game. IE. Ice conditions, fatigue, hits, puck physics?


For balance, we are always looking at the effect of player collisions. We want to ensure that size is represented well and that you get the outcomes you expect on the ice. Big players with size and better balance will have a much easier time standing up to body on body contact and retaining the puck compared to smaller players with less size and balance. We have also added stumbles back in to give a greater range of fidelity when it comes to collisions so that the overall effect of collisions don’t have to be as extreme. That being said, when you really line a player up correctly, there are still very big hits in the game.


For the basis of pre game intros, will you go into more outdoor detail? Or will there be a focus on the indoor feel of the arena at game time?


You will once again see city and arena intro shots to mimic the real world feel of an NBC Sports broadcast. We have also definitely added to the indoor feel of the arenas across the league by taking what was a great architectural foundation by our artists last year and expanding that to emulate the live show that each team puts on for their fans. Over the course of a season, you may see entrance props raising to the rafters, fire and smoke effects from the jumbotrons, fans passing team flags through the stands, and many other elements to enhance the game day authenticity.


Do you expect outdoor arenas to be available in NHL 16?


Outdoor arenas will not be a part of NHL 16. Although they are a big part of the NHL, there are two challenges that we face: 1. The stadiums can be difficult to license and if we make them generic, they immediately lose their authenticity. 2. Unless they are done as DLC, by the the time we get them into the product, the event is already 9 months old.



NHL 16 Developer Q & A Part 2

Odell Beckham Jr. Gives Madden 16 Ratings for Real-Life Skills

Odell Beckham Jr is a man in demand at the moment, and after his recent selection as the youngest ever Madden cover star, he was interviewed by Fox Sports presenter Katie Nolan about his Madden 16 ratings.


But not in the way you might expect. We all know OBJ has some incredible ratings for speed and spec catch, so Katie took a different angle. She asked him for Madden-style ratings for aspects of his personal life, and Odell gave some interesting answers. He rated his cooking at a 56, his driving at an impressive 98, and a 90 for his selfie-taking.



Odell Beckham Jr. Gives Madden 16 Ratings for Real-Life Skills

Madden 15 Tips: How to Beat Cover 2 Invert

The cousin of the Cover 2 has caused a few problems for gamers this year. I know when you first saw the play design it was obvious where the throwing lanes where, but without proper route spacing and depth you’re falling into the trap it has set. One of life’s great mottos is, “don’t judge a book by its cover “and I can’t think of a play this refers to more .


 



 



     The key to the play is the cornerbacks, and since the deep safety is playing a linebacker-esque yellow zone, the cornerbacks are shading inside to cover the area the safety would otherwise be. The spots you want to have receivers at are the deep left, deep middle and deep right parts of the field, so you’re stretching both corners responsibilities so much that one receiver will end up wide open.  Without a receiver in each section, either corner can come off his spot and cover the middle of the field without a problem. The idea is to FORCE the corner to choose an area. With proper spacing and depth you can break this play wide open. Make sure you watch the video and check back daily for more Madden 15 Tips and tips for your favorite sports games here at SGO.


Madden 15 Tips: How to Beat Cover 2 Invert

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

NHL 16 Developer Q & A

Listed below is the developer Q & A for NHL 16 via their new Ask EA NHL page. There are already some great questions and answers as well as some additional feature information, screenshots and videos. Here are the current questions, answers, videos and screenshot included.


Will couch co-op return?


Yes, couch co-op is back for NHL 16


Does “Ice-Tilt” exist in HUT?


No. There are no game code decisions in any mode that give one team an advantage over another based on external factors. Everything is based on what the two competitors are doing with their controllers and the ratings of the players on the ice.


Will we see GM Connected again? If not, will we see a smaller scale of online dynasty type mode?


GM Connected was a highly requested feature that unfortunately failed in many ways. When we look a the data, only a very small number of leagues had more than 2 players per league and though the mode supported up to 25 years, very few leagues made it past the 20 game mark of season 1. We understand that that there were some issues with the overall speed of the mode. Moving forward we want to work with our fans to better understand their needs and expectations on what a great online dynasty for the new generation of consoles should deliver and where we fell short on GM Connected similar to the approach we took in bringing EASHL to NHL 16.


Will EASHL finally make the jump to the current generation of consoles for NHL 16?


Absolutely. As a franchise, we are 100% committed to the EASHL.


Most wanted are the comebacks of “Play a friend” in HUT and “EASHL”. Will those two modes be back?


EASHL is one of our biggest feature addition this year and rightfully so. In addition to bringing back the fundamentals of clubs, the team set out to re-establish balanced and competitive playing field where skill is the determining factor in who wins games. Working with members of our NHL community, we were able to focus on the most important aspects of the mode. For HUT, we are adding Single Player Seasons and HUT Play a Friend. Both of which are high on the community wish list for NHL 16.


What were the biggest challenges facing the NHL team transitioning from NHL 15 to NHL 16?


The biggest challenge was driving an aggressive pre-production with the team while working on content updates for 15 in parallel. Pre-production is the phase of the project where we do all of our feature planning. We are very happy with our NHL 16 feature set and are currently in the process of finalling which will take us until the end of June.


Are mascots in the game this year?


Yes. All of the NHL teams that have official mascots will have them in NHL 16. Screenshot Below:


NHL16_Mascot


What can we expect to see feature wise in the offline single player modes?


We have focused a lot of attention to our offline game modes in NHL 16 by adding features from previous iterations, while creating new experiences that we hope all are fans will enjoy. We added Season Mode allowing you to play with any of our 10 leagues in the game thru a season and playoffs. Be A GM has AHL/NHL integration, Fantasy Draft, Sim Intervention and a brand new feature in Player Morale. Be a Pro has the return of Sim to Next Shift, CHL/AHL integration, and a brand new player progression system. HUT will also include Single Player Seasons which allows players to have a fantasy manager experience without having to play against online competition.Video Below:



How much time do you guys get to really get into the meat and potatoes of upgrading the game for the new release?


The short answer is that is ‘as much as possible’. Putting a new game out every year is an aggressive development timeline so it’s important that the dev team is as efficient as possible. Literally, every day that goes by is a day that can be used to create new features for the next version of the game. Production on the next iteration usually begins in November with finalling ending in June.


Will it be possible to access specific highlights at the end of the game like it was in NHL14 & 13?


Yes. NHL 16 will allow a user to access specific highlights through the Action Tracker which tracks all hits, shots, penalties and goals in a game and allows the user to then select them and view them. Video Below:



As a team, were you guys happy with how NHL 15 turned out?


We understand that we did not meet expectations when it came to our Game Modes whether it be the lack of depth in our single player experiences or omission of key modes like the EASHL. However, we do believe that we built a good base for gameplay and presentation that we can continue to build on. NHL 16 will continue to push forward with compelling gameplay and presentation but also deliver new experiences and depth in our single player and multiplayer modes.


Will it finally be possible to change your goalie during the game in HUT? This feature has been missing forever.


Yes, you will be able to swap your backup goalie in Hockey Ultimate Team when you play NHL 16.


What is the actual probability of pulling a (x) rated player in a HUT pack?


The probability varies widely. What you pull in Hockey Ultimate Team packs are based on multiple factors, a couple examples are: How valuable a player is on the open market or if the player is a special edition (TOTW, TOTY, Movember).


Why did you change the EASHL attribute system?


In NHL 16 we have changed the EASHL attribute system based on research and fan feedback. What we learned through that research and fan feedback is that there were three things that were critical for the new EASHL: 1. Created characters so you could play as yourself 2. Even playing field so skill (individual and team) is the determining factor in the outcome of games 3. Customization of characters so each player can look unique


Where is the focus in NHL 16? Presentation/Gameplay/Modes


The focus is on all three. We need to continue to push forward with compelling gameplay and presentation but also need to deliver new experiences for our single player and multiplayer modes.


Can we expect to see more micro transactions in future NHL titles?


Our goal is to always provide a gameplay experience that does not require the use of micro transactions, but that option will be there in modes like HUT in order for some fans to enhance or expedite their experiences.


Any plans for bringing the NHL series to PC?


No immediate plans however, we’re always looking for new ways to get NHL into the hands of new consumers.


Will I be able to manage my AHL team in GM Mode?


You will be able to manage your AHL team in GM Mode in NHL 16. Screenshot Below:NHL16_GM_Mode


How often do you guys come up with ideas or features you would like to develop into the game, but end up having to push back to another year due to time complexity, time constraints, etc?


We literally do that every year. As part of the Pre-production process, we challenge each other to think big. Often, thinking big results in features that we can not fully complete in a normal cycle so we either build a staged multi-year plan so we can build it out over multiple years or we design it fully and start working on it as early as possible to for the next iteration.


Will there be more player customization & editing? ie: Jerseys, face sculpting, hair, beards, arenas, etc.


Yes. Customization is something that we are going to continuously build upon year on year. The video here will give you more information about customization in NHL 16. Video Below:




NHL 16 Developer Q & A

NHL 16 Legacy Edition Announced for Xbox 360 and PS3

One of the details we discovered with yesterday NHL 16 features being released was that it was only coming to PS4 and Xbox One, but  today it makes more sense as the older consoles will be getting their own game. NHL 16 Legacy edition will take all the most popular modes from NHL with updated rosters and schedules. This is really a great idea by EA and we hope that we see this brought to their other sports titles.

“EA SPORTS NHL Legacy Edition brings together the most popular modes and award-winning gameplay features from nine years of NHL hockey. Featuring updated rosters and authentic schedules, it’s the perfect experience for fans looking to get that complete hockey fix on Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3.


THE SPEED, SKILL, AND AGGRESSION OF NHL HOCKEY


Experience the explosiveness, momentum and top-end speed of the world’s best players with True Performance Skating. Dangle defenders with easy to use One-Touch Dekes and feel the hard-hitting chaos of NHL hockey through true-to-life multiplayer collisions, net scrambles, and player pileups with Multiplayer NHL Collision Physics.


LACE UP THE SKATES


Live the Life of an NHL player as you take your Be a Pro character through the junior ranks and into the NHL. Every decision you make will affect your relationship with fans, teammates and management, influencing your skills and progression. Once you master these single-player Pro experiences, jump into Online Team Play or EA SPORTS Hockey League and team-up with some friends to face online competition. Lastly, relive the glory days with NHL 94 Anniversary Mode featuring bigger goals, hits, retro presentation, and classic button controls.


MANAGE YOUR TEAM TO GLORY


Create an NHL dynasty in Be a GM as you build your team through rookie drafts, trades and signings. GM Connected enhances the manager experience by allowing gamers to manage, play, or coach with and against friends online in their own 30 team human controlled league. Finally, our most played mode Hockey Ultimate Team is the only place to build and play with a team composed of all your favorite players to create an ultimate dream team. Take your team online and face-off against other fan created teams from around the hockey world.


COMPLETE AUTHENTICITY


Choose from eight different hockey leagues including the NHL, AHL, CHL, Liiga, SHL, DEL, Extraliga ledniho hokeje, and National League. Featuring updated rosters and authentic NHL schedules.



NHL 16 Legacy Edition Announced for Xbox 360 and PS3

Monday, May 18, 2015

NHL 16 Details Leaked

NHL 16 Details leaked online tonight and we have posted them below. The list of new features and improvements looks very impressive. The game is set to release this September and is available only on Xbox One & PlayStation 4. Stayed tuned as we will post more NHL 16 details as we get them!


 


Built with more input from our fans than ever before, NHL 16 steps onto the ice to deliver ways to compete as a team, new features across the most played single-player modes, gameplay innovation at every position on the ice and an unrivaled game day atmosphere.


NEW WAYS TO COMPETE AS A TEAM


Hockey is a sport that comes to life in a competitive team-based gameplay experience. Whether it’s through speed, skill, or physicality, every player makes an impact on the ice no matter what position they play or their role on the team. So grab some friends and jump into either 6 v. 6 Online Team Play, Online Couch Co-op, or the re-imagined EA SPORTS Hockey League and prove that great individuals can’t beat a great team.


The New EASHL


Sharpen those skates and grab your buddies because the EA SPORTS Hockey League is back! This fan-favorite online team mode has been reimagined and lets you choose specialized player classes to deliver a balanced competitive experience on the ice. Player skill and your ability to play as a team will now be the determining factor in who wins and loses hockey games.


6 v. 6 Online Team Play


Play online with up to twelve skaters including user controlled goalies. Using real-world NHL rosters you can compete in ranked drop-in games against players from around the world or invite your friends to a private OTP session before you step into EA SPORTS Hockey League.


Online Couch Co-op


The perfect way to play when you and your friends want to jump on the couch, join forces and play some drop-in hockey online. It’s the best place to practice your team play skills before playing OTP or EASHL.


A WAY TO PLAY FOR EVERY HOCKEY FAN


Whether you’re an armchair GM, want to live out your NHL pro fantasy, or build your ultimate dream team, NHL 16 will deliver a single-player game mode for every type of hockey fan – each with new features that you’ve never seen in EA SPORTS NHL.


Be a GM: Player Morale


Being a GM is about more than just getting the best players, it’s about getting the right players to play well together. Each player on your NHL and AHL team has a different personality that you will have to manage. Deal with trade demands, teammate relationships, and much more by calling team meetings or adjusting your roster to directly affect your team’s on-ice performance.


Be a Pro: Shape Your Legacy


The way you play dictates the type of player you will become in an all-new Be a Pro progression system. On-ice actions directly influence attributes earned, ensuring that your Pro will reflect the way you play. Sim to your next shift and the ability to work your way up from CHL rookie to an NHL Superstar also make a return in NHL 16.


Hockey Ultimate Team: Single Player Seasons


The most played mode in the NHL series gets even better. Improved player management and the introduction of HUT Single Player Seasons gives you another way to hone your skills before jumping online with HUT Online Seasons or challenging your friends with the Play a Friend feature.


Visual On-Ice Training


Whether you’re new to the NHL series and looking for pointers or are a grizzled veteran trying to perfect your game, this new training tool will help sharpen your offensive and defensive skills no matter your talent level. Visual aids project shooting targets, passing lanes, open teammates, and more.


COMPLETE CONTROL FROM EVERY POSITION


Whether you play as a forward, defenseman or goalie, NHL 16 delivers a balanced gameplay experience that makes every position on the ice meaningful to team success. With gameplay innovation on offense and defense, players have new tools to not only score goals, but to prevent them as well.


Precision Skating


Utilize a new skating tool that allows you to make refined movements with your skater in any situation. On defense quickly jump into passing lanes and intercept the puck, or walk the blueline on the power play and open yourself up for that one-timer in the offensive zone.


Seamless Puck Pickups


The ability to quickly control a pass or corral a loose puck can be the difference between generating a scoring chance and getting leveled. New puck pickups result in smoother transitions when receiving the puck no matter what your position, giving you more time and control to make your next move.


UNRIVALED GAME DAY AUTHENTICITY


NHL 16 brings the game to life with distinct arena atmospheres, the most realistic players yet, and a story-driven commentary package to pull you into the energy of the game like never before.


Distinct Team Arena Atmosphere


Best in class arena authenticity gets even better with the inclusion of authentic arena effects and props including team specific celebrations, mascots, chants, and even signature props like the Lighthouse at the Xcel Energy Center in Minnesota.


Story Driven Commentary 


Doc Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, and Ray Ferraro are back and now call the game with even more emotion. Hear Doc’s voice rise and fall with the action on the ice and get analysis from Eddie & Ray on the peaks and valleys of a NHL season. An expanded NBC SPORTS broadcast package and new pre-game intros brings the drama to life in more ways than ever before.


Superstar Authenticity


Enhanced facial features and new equipment details synonymous with the league’s top players adds another layer of player authenticity. Use these new equipment elements to customize your own created character giving them a unique look, from custom stick tape, colored skate laces, tinted visors, and more.


Playoff Beards


One of the oldest and most iconic traditions in hockey has arrived. With accurate representations of beard patterns, length, thickness, and growth rates for individual players, the road to the Stanley Cup just got hairier.



NHL 16 Details Leaked

Sunday, May 17, 2015

NBA 2K15 MyTeam Tips: Unstoppable Money Plays for Easy Points 

Today I am going to show you two Money Plays on MyTeam that will unleash the offensive potential of your squad. Turbo-ing baseline and zig-zagging for threes might seem efficient at first, but it is nothing compared to the plays I am about to show you. Here are some of my NBA 2K15 MyTeam Tips on how to score easily Sam Pham Style!






Why Use Plays ?


Zig-zagging and smashing turbo is an “individual” attack. These types of strategies will become inferior, when you are faced with a skilled opponent who plays “team” defense. Secondly, ball hogging with a single card puts other members of your team at risk of going cold; they might become unreliable when you need them to step it up.


Using “Plays” will help you avoid those problems. The two plays I have chosen for you will allow your team to attack in a PHAM-tastic manner; PGs get to facilitate, Wing Scorers will be put in position to dominate, and Shooters will get lots of open catch + shoot opportunities. Attacking this way will breakdown any type of defense you come across in RTTP. Most importantly these plays will keep your offense flexible, thus ensuring your squad to play in roles that best suit their style.


Play # 1

(Both plays are from the GSW Playbook attainable at the auction house!):

Tri Top 14 Fist

This play is set in Triangle Formation, and is designed for your wing scorer to drive to the hoop or pull up for mid range. Your designated Wing Scorer will receive the ball up top, your PF will then set a ball screen at the pinch post. At this point the defense will have to make a choice:


1. Sag down with the big to defend the drive thus giving up the pull up jumper


2. Try to use the wing defender to get over the screen and risk giving up the drive to the hoop.


Either way Pham-ily, this is basketball death for the defense.





Play #2:

15 Angle Down

 This play is set in 4-1 Formation, and is designed to use penetration to open up corner 3pt opportunities.  Your designated facilitator will receive the ball at the wing and then run a high angle PnR with the C. The floor is spaced out in a way that allows the facilitator to get deep to the paint after using the screen. The defense will either have to trap the penetrator and give up the roll, or bring in wing help from elsewhere + give up the three.



There you go PHAM-ily, make sure you add these plays to your arsenal and avoid inferior tactics like turbo smashing and zig-zagging. Individual domination might win you a few games, but a team oriented  Plays driven system will make you LEGENDARY. Thanks for coming by, and Sam Pham will see you next time.



NBA 2K15 MyTeam Tips: Unstoppable Money Plays for Easy Points 

Saturday, May 16, 2015

Madden 16 Screenshots Released

EA Sports has released the first set of Madden 16 screenshots featuring NFL stars Andrew Luck, Cam Newton, Odell Beckham Jr, Antonio Brown, Rob Gronkowski, Peyton Manning, Patrick Peterson and Richard Sherman. Each screenshot is looking impressive and clearly focused on the “Battle for Air Supremacy” mentioned in the Madden 16 features list.



Madden 16 will be released on August 25th, 2015 for the PS4, Xbox One, PS3 and Xbox 360. Be sure to check in daily to Sports Gamers Online for all of the latest Madden 16 news and info!



Madden 16 Screenshots Released