MLB 15 The Show Roster Update Three

MLB 15 The Show roster update three was released including the addition of Addison Russel as well as a host of other player changes and new rookies as you can see below:

PLAYERS ADDED THIS WEEK
PLAYERS TEAM SKIN TONE

Dorn_Danny ARI 6

Russell_Addison CHC 10

Rodon_Carlos CHW 6

Smith_Josh CIN 6

Calixte_Orlando KAN 13

Fuentes_Reymond KAN 8

Liberatore_Adam LAD 6

Plawecki_Kevin NYM 6

Robles_Hansel NYM 8

Harris_Mitch STL 6

Grace_Matt WAS 6

New Rookies

Danny Dorn, 1B, Diamondbacks (63 Overall, D Potential)

Addison Russell, 2B, Cubs (79 Overall, A Potential)

Carlos Rodon, RP, White Sox (70 Overall, A Potential)

Orlando Calixte, SS, Royals (67 Overall, B Potential)

Kevin Plawecki, C, Mets (68 Overall, A Potential)

Hansel Robles, RP, Mets (61 Overall, C Potential)

Mitch Harris, RP, Cardinals (56 Overall, D Potential)

Matt Grace, RP, Nationals (58 Overall, B Potential)

TRANSACTION HIGHLIGHTS

2B Jonathan Schoop moved from Orioles Position to Orioles Minors.

C John Jaso moved from Rays Bench to Rays Minors.

1B James Loney moved from Rays Minors to Rays Position.

SP Drew Smyly moved from Rays Minors to Rays Starting.

DH Justin Smoak moved from Blue Jays Bench to Blue Jays Position.

C Dioner Navarro moved from Blue Jays Position to Blue Jays Minors.

C Josh Thole moved from Blue Jays Minors to Blue Jays Bench.

CP Greg Holland moved from Royals Closer to Royals Minors.

CP Wade Davis moved from Royals Relief to Royals Closer.

CF Gary Brown moved from Cardinals Minors to Angels Minors.

SP Matt Shoemaker moved from Angels Starting to Angels Minors.

LF Carlos Quentin moved from Free Agent 1 to Mariners Minors.

CF Denard Span moved from Nationals Minors to Nationals Position.

CF Michael Taylor moved from Nationals Position to Nationals Minors.

C Travis d’Arnaud moved from Mets Position to Mets Minors.

RF Matt Szczur moved from Cubs Position to Cubs Minors.

DH Chris Denorfia moved from Cubs Bench to Cubs Position.

CF Arismendy Alcantara moved from Cubs Position to Cubs Minors.

SP Homer Bailey moved from Reds Minors to Reds Starting.

3B Yasmany Tomas moved from D’backs Bench to D’backs Position.

3B Jake Lamb moved from D’backs Position to D’backs Minors.

RP LaTroy Hawkins moved from Rockies Relief to Rockies Minors.

RP John Axford moved from Rockies Minors to Rockies Relief.

1B Wilin Rosario moved from Rockies Bench to Rockies Minors.

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update Three

MLB 15 The Show Directional Hitting Guide

Welcome to the second episode in my new 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 new found knowledge to take your game to the next level.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at directional hitting. Now there seems to be some confusion surrounding the mechanic’s functionality, so let’s take a look and see what we find. So leading off, what exactly is directional hitting? Well I’m glad you asked. Directional hitting, first and foremost, is simply an extension of traditional timing hitting, with the added ability to influence the direction of your hits. Before the pitch is thrown, the batter can look for an area of the strike zone with which to influence the direction of the ball, indicated by a yellow marker that borders the selected portion of the strike zone as well as a corresponding camera shift to that direction. By pressing up with the left stick, your hitter will look to hit a fly ball. Press down, and you’ll attempt to hit it on the ground. Or you can look to pull or drive a ball in the opposite direction by pressing right or left, dependent on the hitter’s batting stance. You can even attempt to direct the ball in a combination of directions. Want to pull the ball while lifting it into the outfield? Hold the left stick up and inside. Or maybe you want to hit a grounder to the opposite field? Hold the stick down and out. Very easy.

While you do have to hold the left stick in the intended direction as the pitch crosses the plate, you can also adjust your direction of influence on the fly. But it’s the ability to freely alter your direction of influence, or DOI as we’ll call it, that has led to some misunderstanding of how the mechanic actually works. Many wrongly believe that the DOI must match the pitch’s location to make solid contact. But this is not the case! Remember, this is not zone hitting. There is no PCI with which to match pitch location. The DOI simply influences direction; not the chance for contact. However, there is some validity to matching your DOI with the pitch location. The Direction of Influence represents a batter’s area of focus within the strike zone. The closer the pitch is to the batter’s selected zone of influence, the greater the probability that you’ll be able to DIRECT the ball in the intended direction. Likewise, the further away the pitch lands from your selected zone of influence, the less likely you’ll be able to direct the ball in your preferred direction. But remember, this applies to direction only; not the possibility of making contact. On the user’s end, contact is solely a product of timing. Of course, player ratings act in conjunction with a user’s timing, but those variables act independently from user input and don’t warrant inclusion in this guide.

So just remember that when you’re looking to direct a ball in a particular direction, make sure the ball ends up where you’re looking. It’s not at all impossible, but it’s certainly difficult to pull a pitch on the outside part of the plate, just as it’s hard to get under a ball that’s low in the zone.

Now one last thing before we head into the tips segment. Because directional hitting doesn’t require a batter to place the bat on the ball, the timing windows are constricted in comparison to zone hitting in order to compensate for the inherently simpler user interface. Balance is always key, and while I can’t definitively confirm that one interface bears better results over the other, the mechanics were undeniably designed to be equally difficult in execution.

Okay. So now that we have a better understanding of how the mechanic works, how do we master it? Well, given the mechanic’s roots found in the classic timing interface, the key to hitting well with directional hitting stems from your ability, to, well, time the ball correctly. Even when the pitch lands in your DOI, the game still defers primarily to the user’s timing for hit dispersion. Hit the ball early, you’ll pull it. Hit the ball late, you’ll send it opposite field. But good timing is dependent on lots of practice. So practice a lot.

But there’s more to it than that. We must strategize while at the plate to make the most of the mechanic. For those that employ the “guess location” feature regularly, one can always sit on a pitch in their zone, then place the DOI in that direction after pitch location is revealed. A correct guess yields a bonus to player contact, and the subsequent movement of the left stick to match that location will supply a bonus to directional influence. Considering how pitch location will be guessed correctly in approximately one in five pitches, you can practically be assured that there will be a pitch you can adequately influence in each at bat.

Now personally, I don’t like to wait for a pitch in a particular zone. It’s too defensive. I prefer to be a bit more proactive; read each pitch and adjust accordingly. I want to be able to hit any pitch; not just one in a distinct zone. But as mentioned before, directional hitting doesn’t provide the user with the ability to control bat location, so matching your DOI with the pitch won’t necessarily yield greater results. So here is the greatest advice I can give you. And here it is. DO NOT look to influence ball direction on every pitch. Instead, use it sparingly, only when a specific situation justifies its use.

For example, if there is a runner on third with less than two outs, and you need to bring him home, a ground ball to the right side of the infield will suffice. So, throughout the course of that at bat, hold the left stick down or down and to the right, and you increase your chance of hitting a ball to the right side of the infield. Or, let’s take the same situation, you have a power hitter at the plate, and you want to bring that runner on third home with a deep fly ball. Just hold the left stick up throughout the at-bat to increase your chance of getting under a ball. It’s all very simple. Just don’t over complicate things by attempting to match your DOI with pitch location with each pitch.

So that’s all for this week. When breaking down the directional hitting mechanic to its core components, you’ll realize just how different it is from zone hitting, the knowledge of which provides us with greater insight as how best to utilize the feature to its maximum potential. And finally, I hate to be redundant, but with directional hitting, proper timing is always essential, regardless of what it is you’re trying to do at the plate. Don’t ever forget that.

Directional Hitting. Time the ball. Direct the ball. Simple.

***

MLB 15 The Show Directional Hitting Guide

Connected Franchise Top 10 Wishlist for Madden NFL 16

Within weeks after a new edition of EA Sports’ popular Madden NFL series drops, a number of message boards and discussion forums will have a ‘wish list’ posted with dozens of criticisms, complaints, and suggestions for added features in future editions.

Given that I have been managing an online Madden NFL league off and on since October 2002, I feel like I have a good sense from a Commissioner’s perspective on what should be added to the game.

Unlike many ‘wish lists’ I have perused across the internet, mine is going to concentrate specifically on the Connected Franchise Mode (CFM) which is how the vast majority of online league commissioner’s execute their competitive seasons.

#10 – The ability to preview CFM playoff seeds before the playoffs actually begin

This feature was actually included in Madden NFL ’13, but then it was taken out. Bring it back! Please! This is very helpful to those who participate in online Madden NFL leagues.

 

#9 – The ability to engage in CFM practice games against the CPU and/or against other league members

This feature is an absolute MUST!! Everyone I have talked to wants to play some practice games before their next scheduled league game. Implement this in the game!! Please!

 

#8 – A wider variety of commentators, particularly during the CFM playoffs

With all due respect to Phil Simms and Jim Nantz, we need a wider variety of commentators. Let us hear Al Michaels and Chris Collinsworth, as well as Joe Buck and Troy Aikman. This would give the game, and particularly playoff games, a higher degree of realism.

 

#7 – Give each League Commissioner the ability to cancel and/or reverse improper trades

I would assume that each online league has it’s own set of rules and guidelines regarding the trading of player personnel. Inevitably, someone is going to violate those rules. Implement a feature where the League Commissioner can ‘void’ an improper trade.

 

#6 – Give each online league the ability to create and draft realistic college players as rookies

League members will be much more excited to draft QB Connor Cook or HB Ezekiel Elliott than some fictional quarterback or halfback that they have never heard of.

 

#5 – The ability to create personalized touchdown celebrations in CFM games

Give each online league member the ability to press a button, or series of buttons, to have his QB, RB, WR, or TE perform their own unique, individual celebration dance. This would really add some much needed ‘spice’ to each CFM contest!

 

#4 – Bring back the ability to have league coaches import their actual facial images into CFM

This feature was actually included in Madden NFL ’13 and Madden NFL 14/25, but then it was eliminated in Madden NFL 15. Bring it back! Please!

 

#3 – The ability for multiple CFM players to engage in an online team play CFM Pro Bowl contest

Allow the CFM Pro Bowl to actually be played!! Everyone wants this feature added!! Are you listening EA Sports?? C’mon fellas. Add this in right now.

 

#2 – The ability to simulate a CFM contest in favor of a particular team

This is an absolute MUST! Currently, you have to leave it up to chance. This should not be. Each online league commissioner needs to have the ability to simulate a CFM contest in favor of one team or the other. Also add in the ability to simulate an individual CFM contest via the maddencfm.com website!!

 

#1 – The ability to have the CFM system automatically save the individual and team statistics for a CFM contest that inadvertently ‘froze’ or was prematurely disconnected and ended

If two players are engaged in an offline contest, and suddenly the power goes out, Madden NFL 15 automatically saves that contest, and allows you to continue playing that same contest without having to play the game over again. This feature should definitely be applied to online CFM contests. NO DOUBT. This feature is MUCH NEEDED. I mean, very much needed.

There you have it. My list of the Top Ten suggestions for improvement for Madden NFL 16, 17, and beyond. EA Sports, it is time for you to take the Connected Franchise Mode to the NEXT LEVEL!!

Connected Franchise Top 10 Wishlist for Madden NFL 16

EA SPORTS Rory McIlroy PGA TOUR - First Look at Gameplay!

EA SPORTS Rory McIlroy PGA TOUR released it’s 1st gameplay video today. Learn about the different gameplay styles, improved ball physics and more. Break free from what you think a golf game can be. Frostbite creates a new world, where you experience every detail – breathing life into the courses, players and crowds in ways you’ve never seen before. All this, with no load times between holes or interruptions in the action. Allowing you to enjoy your game the way you want. EA SPORTS Rory McIlroy PGA TOUR is available to pre-order now. Order your copy today.

EA SPORTS Rory McIlroy PGA TOUR - First Look at Gameplay!

MLB 15 The Show Patch 1.02 Details

The latest MLB 15 The Show Patch 1.02 for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 went live Thursday morning . The changes are listed below:

• Online Gameplay – Game would occasionally hang following an Intentional Walk, a regular Base on Balls, a Hit by Pitch, or a Balk.


• General – Batters would strikeout on the second strike when the performed certain check swings at pitches in the dirt.


• Franchise mode – Edit Player screen was limiting users from editing generated players, and players on certain teams.


• General – Specific home runs would result in a baserunner staying on 1st base, and not score correctly.


• Online Franchise – Injuries were not occurring during Online Franchise games.


• Online Gameplay – Guessing Pitches had a delay and users would occasionally fail to guess Location and Pitch Type when offering input quickly.


• Online – Within Game Rooms, users were missing their rank logos that distinguished them as Rookie, Veteran, All-Star, Hall of Fame, or Legend rank.


• Online – Play Now Rated and Diamond Dynasty – Home and Away team assignment was not random, resulting in some users always being the home team, or always the away team.


• Online – Play Now Online rated – Controlling the KC Royals, user would be given control of the ace pitcher (Ventura) no matter who was chosen to be the starting pitcher in the Pitcher Select screen.


• Card Collections – Redeem Legend button was missing after completing a collection.


• General – CPU runners were not using correct lead off logic.


• General – Specific edited rosters would cause the game to crash when loading into a Road To The Show Showcase game.


• General – Andrew McCutchen’s hair has been adjusted – We gave him a haircut to match his current appearance.


• General – Wrigley Field had some collision/Home Run detection issues. Certain foul balls were being counted as Home Runs down the 1st base line.


• General – Sounds of the Show issues have been resolved. Custom music was not being saved correctly where users intended them to.


• General – Public Announcer audio was frequently incorrect (announcing the wrong name) during the end of game wrap up and also when bringing relief pitchers into the game.


• General – Highlight Reel was added back into post game menus, by popular demand!


• General – Tweaking and refining of in game sound effects.


• General – Front End User Interface tweaking. Team colors on User’s Player Card.


• General – Tuning to trade logic, specifically how the CPU traded with other CPU teams in Franchise and Season modes.


• General – Baserunning/Lead Runner windows were missing from Manager Mode.


• General – Players will now wear sleeves when the game is played at lower temperatures.


• General – Fixed many occurrences of consumer reported crashes, reported to us through the PS4 operating system crash reporting tool. Areas that encountered these rare crashes included: Exiting Amateur Draft in Franchise mode / Entering Diamond Dynasty / During initial boot-up / Using the Suggested Trade feature in Franchise mode / Specific in game scenarios.


• Community Market – Changing pages in the marketplace completed order now works.


• Gameplay – Animation clean up and tuning.


• Gameplay – Adjustments to tagging sliding baserunners.


• AI tuning – Bunt success rate was incorrect/too successful and accurate.


• Year to Year Saves modifications – Properly handling a small batch of players who were not in the league in MLB 14, and how they transfer over to MLB 15.

MLB 15 The Show Patch 1.02 Details

14 Must Have Improvements & Additions to NBA 2K16 MyCareer

MyCareer has been one of the most popular modes 2K Sports have created but there is still a ways to go into making it into the experience NBA 2K Basketball fans are looking for. Here are our list of must have improvements in NBA 2K16 to take MyCareer to the next level.

 

#1. Euro league

2k Sports have the rights for the Euro teams, so why don’t they use it in MyCareer? It doesn’t make sense to me that we are just some no-name player that came out of nowhere and is now all of a sudden in the NBA. What if they allowed us to play in the Euro league tournament and allow us to make a name for ourselves?

 

#2. Draft Combine

Doing the draft combine and based on that deciding where we will go in the draft would be good. It’s not like they have not done this before. It was fun playing a few games with just the upcoming rookies, and seeing our draft stock go up or down after games. If we perform poorly perhaps we get drafted in the second round, get sent to the D-League, and then get called up. Again, that’s not something that they haven’t done before. It would also be nice for the other rookies draft spots to be changed up with based off their performance. And make our performance affect our overall.

#3. Draft

I did enjoy the draft, but it wasn’t perfect. Make it so we actually count in the draft. What I mean by this is that when we got drafted we would be on whatever team we got drafted to WITH the rookie that got drafted there in real life. I want to be drafted in that spot INSTEAD of that rookie. For example, if we did so well that we are the #1 pick make Okafor or whoever the #1 pick is go to the next pick, and make that #2 pick the #3 and so on.  Maybe that pick completely changes the A.I’s logic and makes Okafor fall to a different team. I want this because it seems silly to me when 1 team in the draft gets to pick 2 players in 1 spot. In Madden they have different expectations of you based on where you were picked in the draft. I want 2K to add something similar.

#4. D-League

Seeing the D-League back would be good, just to add to the depth. If we ever find ourselves down there we have to play well for a bit. Maybe we get called up by a championship contender that we would be a fit for (Spurs). Maybe we get called up by a tanking team looking for talent without much to lose (76ers). Maybe we get brought up by a team that is injured badly (Heat). Hell, what if the other players in the league go through the same process? I know Napier was sent down for a little bit. And I know that other players were brought up.

 

#5. Player Overall Rating

One thing that always bothered me about MyCareer in previous years is that no matter where we were drafted #1 or #30 you were the exact same overall. That doesn’t make sense to me. You were picked higher for a reason. If they implement the draft combine then they should use that to determine your stats when you enter the NBA. You should start by picking your play style that have you base stats, like they used to have, with badges, and based on your games during the combine your stats change. For example, let’s say I decide to be a 3pt shooter and my base 3pt is  80, if I shoot very well I should enter the league with an 85 3pt, but if I shoot poorly I should enter the league with a 75 3pt. Also get rid of using VC to upgrade your player, we should progress slower and not be able to be the best player in the league 2 seasons in. That is another thing that made MyCareer boring quickly for me. My friend was telling me that he was 4 seasons in and just became a 90 overall in MLB: The Show. 2k should implement a similar system. Our overall should climb higher the closer and closer we get to our “prime”, and then start to slowly fall back down after. This would keep more interest in the MyCareer for longer, because it gets boring being able to drop 40-10-10 every night.

#6. Cutscenes

2K has a good idea going with using cut scenes to advance the story in MyCareer. However, if they are going to use cut scenes they need to go all out. We need different ones after 1 or 2 seasons we start to get the same ones. Why not have a cut scene for missing/losing in the playoffs? Show our players getting mad or frustrated. They have us get a mentor badge after being in the league for 4 years, why not actually show us mentoring the younger players on the team? Also get rid of the cut scene after a bad practice where the coach will come up to us and say something along the lines of you will be out of the league soon. This is fine during the first or second season, but after we have become an All-Star multiple times, won MVP awards, Finals MVP, and various other accolades it’s just plain stupid hearing it.

#7. Rivals

Another thing 2K was doing right was the rival player, but they did not implement it well. Last year they had Jackson Ellis, but they never explained what made us rivals. This year they made our rival Dante Exum, but still failed to explain what made us rivals. They allowed us to talk shit to Kevin Durant if we wanted to, which was a nice addition. They need to allow us to become rivals with every player, or at least a lot more than we have now. Allow us to start up our own rivalries, if we are playing crazy intense defense and reaching all the time have the other player retaliate. Maybe they foul us hard when going for a dunk/layup. Maybe they start playing way more aggressively.

#8. Friendship

On the flip side of rivalries why not allow us to become friends with various players throughout the league? We could practice together in the offseason, and even team up when we become free agents.

#9. Accessories

Please 2k do something about the prices of these accessories. We are in the NBA, it shouldn’t take me 3-5 games just to afford a headband. It shouldn’t even take a game. I think that the accessories should be free because we are in the NBA. I really doubt that NBA players have to buy their own headbands/etc. But if we really have to buy them then they should be much cheaper. And also allow us to buy any shoe at any time. NBA players don’t have to wait to wear shoes, so why should we? When we get our shoe endorsement then the shoes should be free.

#10. Hot/Cold Streaks

I know that the announcers will mention who has been playing well over the past month or so. What if that affected our players’ attributes? We play well over a few games some of our stats get a slight boost. Vice Versa for cold streaks.

#11. Injuries

In 2k11 injuries happened to our MyPlayers. They should bring those back just to add some variety to our careers. 2K even added this whole new injury system for 2k15, they should make it affect our MyPlayers.  They have animations where you jump in the air, get hit, and take a hard fall, then we roll on the ground in pain for a bit, then we get up and shoot free throws like nothing happened. I would like to actually have our stats be effected by this. In the older 2k games we even had an option to play through it. Doing this though they have to take out the animation where you take a wide open jumpshot then fall down injured badly.

#12. Coaching

Coaching should be smarter for MyCareer. When I am winning by a lot in the other game modes the computer will automatically put the bench squad in. Why is it in MyCareer when we are winning by a lot or losing by a lot the coaches will keep us in as if it is a 2 point game? The coach needs to actually do defensive matchups. The best defender should be on the best offensive player, not just have each position guard the same one.

#13. Customization

2K we need access to every single hairstyle and tattoos that the NBA players have. There just isn’t enough hairstyles or tattoos that look good, so every MyPlayer tends to look the same.

#14. Voices

Too add on to the customization, it’s about time that 2K adds in more than 2 voices for our MyPlayers. We should get to choose between at least a few different accents from major countries all over the world.

 

Hopefully you enjoyed our Must Have Improvements & Additions to NBA 2K16 MyCareer article. Do you have any other suggestions for the 2K Devs? What would you add to the list?

14 Must Have Improvements & Additions to NBA 2K16 MyCareer

Community Challenges Overhauled in MLB 15 The Show

San Diego Studios developer, Nick Livingston, released a statement discussing their approach to refurbish and transition community challenges:

“In the past weeks, it’s become very obvious that the culture around Community Challenges has strayed from what we had hoped it would be. When we implemented it, we envisioned a place where users would thoughtfully craft interesting bite-size play sessions for their peers to test their skills against. It was always important to us that when someone took the time to sit down and create something compelling, they better be rewarded for doing so. We thought it would awesome to add a currency component to raise the stakes of the competition.

Community Challenges has evolved to a point where for every well thought out challenge made, we see an overwhelming number of very dull challenges and even worse, clickbait titles and descriptions attempting to confuse users about how the system actually works. We wish we had made some aspects of the mode more easily understood.

For now, we are taking steps towards revitalizing Community Challenges. A couple weeks ago, we put a restriction in that prevented users from creating challenges with Stub Buy-Ins. We immediately saw a huge increase in the average quality of challenges created. Today, we updated all active challenges to be free to play. In the upcoming patch, we will be updating the User Interface to reflect our decision to remove currency integration from the mode for the time being. We remain open to integrating currency into the mode in an interesting way moving forward. A big thanks to everyone who takes the time to create cool stuff in our game.”

In a nutshell, the developers have caught on to what some members among the community have been exploiting within community challenges and finally decided to put a stop to it.  If you are unaware of community challenges and how they work then this may be news to you, however most of the community has been fully aware of the problem that the community challenges have brought forth.

Users were creating easy challenges, making multiple accounts, and having groups of their friends play these easy challenges to increase the buy in and reward.  Ultimately, it was awarding them unlimited amount of stubs. There is a little more depth to it than that, and it somewhat led to the degradation of Diamond Dynasty these past few years.

The community challenges were implemented in last year’s version of MLB The Show.  On paper, it sounded like a great idea and a fun way to compete with your friends by creating your own scenarios.  It is unfortunate to see some members of the community exploit these challenges and it may even forces SDS to can the mode altogether.

If you were farming stubs by playing community challenges well then you have to find other ways to make stubs. SDS optimistically, sounds like they have a way to fix this problem and keep the mode in the game.  Let’s all hope it works out for the best and we can enjoy this mode for what it was originally intended to be used for.

Do you think MLB 15 The Show Community Challenges are broken? What would you do to fix them??

Community Challenges Overhauled in MLB 15 The Show

NHL 15 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs Simulation

With the 2015 NHL playoffs in full swing, EA Sports ran their annual Playoff simulation using the NHL 15 engine. The sim once again mirrored what happens so often in the playoffs when it comes to hockey.

You had perennial powerhouses upset, newcomers surprise and the eventual champion being a team that got hot at the right time.

In the West, the playoff starved Winnipeg Jets won all of their home games only to fall short to the Anaheim Ducks who did so as well, eliminating the team from Canada in a hard fought 7 game series. The Calgary Flames looked poised to make a run for the cup after defeating the Vancouver Canucks in 6 games but their effort was hampered by an Anaheim Ducks team that grinded out a victory in a decisive game 7.

The St. Louis Blues had a great regular season but came up short losing to a team with a hot goaltender in Devan Dubnyk and the Minnesota Wild who would go on to play in the Western Conference finals only to fall short to the eventual Stanley Cup winning Anaheim Ducks.

The Eastern Conference meanwhile had similar storylines. The Tampa Bay Lighting surely locked in for a deep run at Lord Stanleys cup after getting swept in last years playoffs, once again fell short of their goal by losing to an underdog Red Wings team in just 6 games.

The Rangers made sure they kept the Garden crowd on their toes as they took every series they played in to 7 games. That included a thrilling 2nd round matchup with cross-city rival, the New York Islanders in which the Rangers were victorious behind stellar play from their star Rick Nash who scored an impressive 12 goals with 8 assists in all.

The Canadians meanwhile gave hope to fans north of the border to possibly get the Cup back to Canada after defeating both the Senators and Red Wings in just 5 games each.

They would however run into a proven, gritty Rangers team who has been there just last year and New York would go on to defeat the Canadians in 7 games to ensure a second straight Stanley Cup finals berth.

The Stanley Cup Finals

Anaheim came in just like the Rangers, having played in 7 game series’ across the board. The immaculate play of Ryan Getzlaf however proved to be the difference in the series which also went the distance. The Ducks of Anaheim ensured that Lord Stanleys Cup stayed in southern California for at least one more year as they defeated the Rangers in an epic game 7 thriller. Getzlaf took home the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Playoffs MVP, finishing with nine goals, 17 assist in a total of 28 games played.

We will know in a few weeks how accurate this simulation made by EA’s NHL 15 engine was but if the results so far are any indication, the first round at least seems to be pretty close to the outcomes predicted.

However, if you think you can do better than EA did, you can still sign up for the 2015 NHL Bracket Challenge and compete directly against the EA engine for some pretty cool prizes.

Comment, Like and Share and as always stay tuned to SGO for all the latest news, tips and tricks in the gaming world.

 

 

 

 

NHL 15 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs Simulation

Could Microsoft's New IP Be Joe Montana Football 16?

Head of Microsoft’s XBox division Phil Spencer shed some light on what we can expect from the company in the upcoming months.

He took to Twitter on sunday afternoon to announce that at this years E3 in Los Angeles, Microsoft will focus on first party games and exclusives more so than ever before.

He also revealed that there will be a new IP  announced.

Some rumors a few months ago were swirling about Joe Montana Football 16 being a Microsoft exclusive and it possibly even having full NFL licensing due to a partnership the NFL and Microsoft currently have.

Latest image released by Joe Montana Football developer Damon Grow.

 

Joe Montana 16 development is well underway.

Either way, it looks as if Microsoft will shift direction and focus on in-house exclusives more than ever before. It makes sense as it promotes console sales and will help build the overall brand.

Stay tuned to SGO as E3 approaches for all the latest news and press releases from the gaming industry.

Could Microsoft's New IP Be Joe Montana Football 16?

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update: Kris Bryant Finally Added

San Diego Studios had their weekly roster update Monday morning, which included new players added and transaction highlights.  See below for all of the updates:

PLAYERS ADDED THIS WEEK

PLAYERS TEAM SKIN TONE

Schugel_AJ ARI 6

Tomas_Yasmany ARI 10

Marimon_SugarRay ATL 12

Gamboa_Eddie BAL 7

Bryant_Kris CHC 6

Skipworth_Kyle CIN 6

Marcum_Shaun CLE 6

Oberg_Scott COL 6

Wilk_Adam LAA 6

Urena_Jose MIA 11

Muno_Danny NYM 6

Davies_Kyle NYY 6

Pinder_Brandon NYY 6

Tracy_Matt NYY 6

Rearick_Chris SDG 6

Easley_Ed STL 6

Martin_Rafael WAS 8

Rivero_Felipe WAS 12

TRANSACTION HIGHLIGHTS

CP Koji Uehara moved from Red Sox Minors to Red Sox Closer.

RP Edward Mujica moved from Red Sox Closer to Red Sox Relief.

RP Jose Dominguez moved from Rays Minors to Rays Relief.

RP Kirby Yates moved from Rays Relief to Rays Minors.

C Yan Gomes moved from Indians Position to Indians Minors.

C Roberto Perez moved from Indians Bench to Indians Position.

LF Terrance Gore moved from Royals Minors to Royals Bench.

RF Jarrod Dyson moved from Royals Bench to Royals Position.

RF Alex Rios moved from Royals Position to Royals Minors.

SP Garrett Richards moved from Angels Minors to Angels Starting.

RF Josh Red**** moved from A’s Minors to A’s Position.

LF Ryan Rua moved from Rangers Position to Rangers Minors.

SP Derek Holland moved from Rangers Starting to Rangers Minors.

RP Tanner Scheppers moved from Rangers Minors to Rangers Relief.

SP Henderson Alvarez moved from Marlins Starting to Marlins Minors.

SP David Phelps moved from Marlins Relief to Marlins Starting.

RF Jayson Werth moved from Nationals Minors to Nationals Position.

3B David Wright moved from Mets Position to Mets Minors.

3B Eric Campbell moved from Mets Minors to Mets Position.

2B Tommy LaStella moved from Cubs Position to Cubs Minors.

CF Carlos Gomez moved from Brewers Position to Brewers Minors.

LF Ender Inciarte moved from D’backs Bench to D’backs Position.

LF David Peralta moved from D’backs Position to D’backs Bench.

CP Adam Ottavino moved from Rockies Relief to Rockies Closer.

The big news, however, is that the newly called up rookie sensation, Kris Bryant, has finally been added to the online rosters.  This means Bryant can now be used for online rated games, as well as, be used in Diamond Dynasty.   Kris Bryant will start the season at an 81 overall, ranking him 11^th overall at his position. Here is a look at his player card, along with his attributes:

The addition of Bryant also means that he will now be playable in Diamond Dynasty and be a part of the Cubs’ collection in order to get Ernie Banks.  Bryant was already going for 25k this afternoon on the market, but that price will surely drop once people acquire him through packs.  It may be a smart investment to stockpile a few of these cards as SDS will be upgrading players throughout the season.  Here is a look at the market from earlier today:

 

As for the Cubs, they now have a legitimate clean up hitter in their lineup. They move to 20^th overall for online rated and are now ranked 17^th in contact and 14^th in power, respectively.

 

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update: Kris Bryant Finally Added

MLB 15 The Show Challenge of the Week 4/20-4/27

For all of you competitive Challenge of the Week players out there, San Diego Studios has revealed their new prize for this week.  For the first time in a few years it is going to be something other than a signed ball or jersey.  The prize this week is a custom MLB The Show Bat

This week’s challenge is going to be C.C. Sabathia vs Miguel Cabrera.  The bonuses include: Four Wide ones (collect 4 balls in one strike) ;  Banjo Hitter (Collect 3 weak hits during an out) ; Big as a Grapefruit (Hit 10 home runs in one session) ; Feel The Road (Put 24 balls in play in one session).

This should be one of the easier Challenges of the year, so expect for 15+ million to win it!  Remember to stay back and wait on Sabathia’s breaking ball as he does not throw very hard anymore.  Good Luck!

MLB 15 The Show Challenge of the Week 4/20-4/27

MLB 15 The Show Zone Hitting Guide

Welcome to the first episode in my new 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 zone hitting. When using zone hitting, the key to solid contact lies within how well you use the left stick to control your Plate Coverage Indicator, or PCI. The size of each player’s PCI is a product of their contact and vision attributes, and to a lesser degree, power, all of which are then modified by the opposing pitcher’s attributes. A larger PCI coincides with a greater bat coverage radius, which allows for a greater chance at contact, while a smaller PCI works in the opposite fashion. Very simple. This PCI, or zone of contact, can be adjusted as the pitch reaches the plate, right until the moment you press any of the three hit buttons. And it’s this element of the mechanic, the ability to maneuver your PCI with the left stick to match the pitch’s location, that differentiates the good hitters from the poor ones.

Of course, hitting in The Show is no easy task, but now that we have a basic understanding of the mechanic, how do we master it? First, let’s analyze the spatial arrangement of the PCI within the strike zone, which will provide us with insight as how best to physically maneuver the stick as the pitch is being thrown. You’ll notice that when left in resting position, the PCI, regardless of the hitting level or the player at bat, comprises a large percentage of the strike zone, and as such, the PCI does not need to travel large distances to cover much ground. Instead, matching the PCI with the pitch necessitates a more subtle manipulation of the left stick; a manipulation that requires an alteration to the traditional hand and thumb placement on the controller.

When playing a first person shooter, it is essential that your left thumb is given full range of movement to quickly position your reticule on your target. You need to be able to move the reticule over a large distance, and quickly. But in MLB The Show, while you’re attempting to match a reticule (i.e. the PCI) to a target, (i.e. pitch location) your reticule is much larger and the area of possible movement is much smaller, and therefore, we need to limit our range of movement to more precisely steer the left stick without overextension. To do so, we need to change our thumb placement on the controller. Let me show you exactly what I mean.

To restrict our thumb’s range of movement, we will dig the end of our thumb directly on top of the left thumbstick, firmly planted in the middle of stick’s concave top. Our thumb’s first knuckle should be pointing almost straight upward. This will lock our thumb in place, ultimately limiting our range of motion and thereby preventing the overextension that so often plagues many players. By restricting our thumb’s range of movement, we can now subtly maneuver the right stick to correspond to the slight changes in pitch placement on the fly.

I am completely serious when I say that this will increase your bat control tenfold. With a simple readjustment of the way we place our thumb on the controller, we mitigate our natural tendency to overextend the control stick to make contact by regulating our thumb’s natural range of motion. The result is more subtle, more precise 360 degree PCI steering, the likes of which will help you place your bat anywhere in the zone without a second thought.

Now let’s talk a little bit more in-depth about the zone hitting mechanic itself, and further analyze how its components can help us strategize at the plate. The PCI represents a zone of probable contact for the batter, the center of which designates the ideal spot for contact. As you expand outward from the center, the degree of solid contact decreases. But here’s the essential part. If your PCI is slightly above the pitch as you swing, you will be more likely to induce a ground ball, corresponding to a hitter getting on top of a ball in real life. And if your PCI is slightly below the pitch as you swing, you will be more likely to induce a fly ball, again corresponding to a hitter getting under a ball. Now given the situation, we can use this knowledge to our advantage. For example, if there’s a runner on third with less than two outs, and we only need deep fly ball to bring him home, we can place our PCI slightly below its resting position before the pitch is made, simulating a hitter’s desire to lift a ball to the outfield. By lowering our PCI’s initial position, we are more likely to get under a ball and drive it in the outfield. The opposite is true when trying to generate a ground ball. By placing the PCI slightly above its original position, you’ll be more likely to get on top of a ball and hit in on the ground. Whatever it is you’re looking to do at the plate, be smart and put yourself in the best position possible to get your intended result.

There is one more element to zone hitting that is worth understanding. That is, your swing timing also has some influence on your aim. Swinging too early will lift your PCI and influence ground balls, and swinging too late drops your PCI and increases fly balls. This effect is amplified when the batter swings too early on an outside pitch, or rolls over, or too early on an inside pitch, or gets jammed.

Now there are two more things I want to talk about with regard to zone hitting, both of which will give you an additional advantage when you’re up to bat. Firstly, make sure to utilize the “Swing Info Display” multiple times throughout the course of an at bat. After each pitch, by holding the right trigger and pressing left or right on the d-pad, the swing info graphic will show you the timing, contact, pitch speed, and pitch location results. This display is essential towards helping you better analyze and identify your own strengths and weaknesses at the plate.

Finally, go into gameplay options, and when selecting your PCI appearance, choose the “outline” option. While the choice is certainly yours, I find the outline option to be the least invasive and least distracting choice available, and as such, it allows the batter to better track pitch speed, pitch movement, and pitch location.

So that’s all for this week. Remember, when distilling the zone hitting mechanic to its essentials, we can adapt accordingly, and provide ourselves with a better opportunity to increase our hitting potential. With a little bit of scientific analysis to help augment the way we position our thumb on the controller, along with the employment of various strategies formed from our newfound knowledge of the mechanic, you’ll find your batting average climbing fast.

Zone hitting. See the ball. Hit the ball. Simple.

 

MLB 15 The Show Zone Hitting Guide

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update - April 13th

MLB 15 The Show rosters were released including the Braves & Padres trade as well as a host of other player changes as you can see below:

PLAYERS ADDED

• Bradley_Archie ARI


• Cunniff_Brandon ATL


• Martin_Cody ATL


• McKirahan_Andrew ATL


• Garcia_Jason BAL


• Johnson_Micah CHW


• Iglesias_Raisel CIN


• Marquis_Jason CIN


• Betancourt_Rafael COL


• Nesbitt_Angel DET


• Wojciechowski_Asher HOU


• Madson_Ryan KAN


• Orlando_Paulo KAN


• Featherston_Taylor LAA


• Blazek_Michael MIL


• Graham_JR MIN


• Gilmartin_Sean NYM


• Canha_Mark OAK


• Ladendorf_Tyler OAK


• Herrera_Odubel PHI


• Kang_Jungho PIT


• Liz_Radhames PIT


• Olson_Tyler SEA


• Andriese_Matt TAM


• Beckham_Tim TAM


• Dykstra_Allan TAM


• DeShieldsJr_Delino TEX


• Kela_Keone TEX


• Verrett_Logan TEX


• Castro_Miguel TOR


• Hynes_Colt TOR


• Osuna_Roberto TOR


• Travis_Devon TOR

TRANSACTION HIGHLIGHTS

• RP Kevin Gausman moved from Orioles Starting to Orioles Relief.


• SP Ubaldo Jimenez moved from Orioles Relief to Orioles Starting.


• SS Everth Cabrera moved from Orioles Bench to Orioles Position.


• SS JJ Hardy moved from Orioles Position to Orioles Minors.


• CF Rusney Castillo moved from Red Sox Position to Red Sox Minors.


• CF Mookie Betts moved from Red Sox Bench to Red Sox Position.


• CP Edward Mujica moved from Red Sox Relief to Red Sox Closer.


• CP Koji Uehara moved from Red Sox Closer to Red Sox Minors.


• CP Brad Boxberger moved from Rays Relief to Rays Closer.


• SP Alex Cobb moved from Rays Starting to Rays Minors.


• SP Chris Sale moved from White Sox Minors to White Sox Starting.


• 1B Nick Swisher moved from Indians Position to Indians Minors.


• SP Justin Verlander moved from Tigers Starting to Tigers Minors.


• CP Joe Nathan moved from Tigers Closer to Tigers Minors.


• CP Joakim Soria moved from Tigers Relief to Tigers Closer.


• LF Cody Ross moved from D’backs Position to D’backs Minors.


• CF Coco Crisp moved from A’s Position to A’s Minors.


• CF Cameron Maybin moved from Padres Minors to Braves Bench.


• CP Jason Grilli moved from Braves Relief to Braves Closer.


• SP Trevor Cahill moved from D’backs Starting to Braves Starting.


• CF Matt den Dekker moved from Mets Minors to Nationals Bench.


• 3B Anthony Rendon moved from Nationals Position to Nationals Minors.


• RP Jerry Blevins moved from Nationals Relief to Mets Relief.


• 1B Eric Campbell moved from Mets Position to Mets Minors.


• RP Phil Coke moved from Free Agent 1 to Cubs Relief.


• LF Chris Dominguez moved from Free Agent 1 to Reds Bench.


• RP Chad Qualls moved from Astros Closer to Astros Relief.


• CP Luke Gregerson moved from Astros Relief to Astros Closer.


• 3B Matt Dominguez moved from Astros Bench to Astros Minors.


• SP Jeff Locke moved from Pirates Minors to Pirates Starting.


• CF Gary Brown moved from Giants Minors to Cardinals Minors.


• 2B Aaron Hill moved from D’backs Position to D’backs Bench.


• RP Rex Brothers moved from Rockies Relief to Rockies Minors.


• CP Joel Peralta moved from Dodgers Relief to Dodgers Closer.


• CP Craig Kimbrel moved from Braves Closer to Padres Closer.


• RP Joaquin Benoit moved from Padres Closer to Padres Relief.


• CF Melvin Upton Jr. moved from Braves Minors to Padres Minors.

MLB 15 The Show Roster Update - April 13th

MLB 15 The Show Week One Stats

 

Checkout the stats released by MLB 15 The Show detailing the success the game has had so far. Gamers are lining up to knock it out the park with the Dodgers and getting tons of games in across various modes. 

 

MLB 15 The Show Week One Stats

NPD Sales Results for March 2015

This month’s NPD showed retail sales are down 6% year over year. Wii U hardware is up approximately 20% year over year for the first three months of the year. 3DS hardware is up approximately 80% year over year for the first three months of the year. PS4 was number one in software sales as well as hardware.

 

Software:

1.) Battlefield: Hardline (Xbox One, PlayStation 4, 360, PS3, PC)

2.) Bloodborne (PS4)

3.) Grand Theft Auto V (Xbox One, PS4, 360, PS3)

4.) Mario Party 10 (Wii U)

5.) Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (PS4, Xbox One, 360, PS3, PC)

6.) MLB 15: The Show (PS4, PS3)

7.) Minecraft (360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4)

8.) NBA 2K15 (PS4, Xbox One, 360, PS3, PC)

9.) Borderlands: The Handsome Collection (PS4, Xbox One)

10.) Final Fantasy: Type 0 HD (PS4, Xbox One)

Notes:

-Mario Party 9: 290,000 (Digital + Physical)

-Majora’s Mask: 184,000 (D+P, 730K LTD)

-Smash 3DS: 110,000 (D+P, 2.4M LTD)

-Smash Wii U LTD: 1.6 million

-Mario Kart 8 LTD: 1.9 million

 

Hardware:

PS4: #1 platform

3DS: ~260-270K

Wii U: ~80-85K

Notes:

-Wii U hardware is up approximately 20% year over year for the first three months of the year.

-3DS hardware is up approximately 80% year over year for the first three months of the yea

 

NPD Sales Results for March 2015

MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Legends Reviews: NL West

This is the first year MLB The Show has used Legends in their game and is also one of the biggest attractions to playing Diamond Dynasty.  This was also one of the main reasons that SDS decided to stick with real MLB players and legends rather than going back to the Diamond Dynasty fictional players.  It is a win/win situation for SDS, but how do these legends fare on the Diamond and are they worth obtaining?  In this 6 part guide I will discuss the Legend’s ratings, how they play on the field, and how much it is going to cost you to acquire them.

In Part 1 we are going to start with the NL West. Be aware that there are two methods to get legends.  The first one is through collections and the second one is the random draw of your packs.  Each team has a collection of cards and if collected then you will acquire their Legendary player!  Keep in mind that you do not need to acquire every single player for that team!  You only need to obtain the players to the right of the legend! This means any card that is rated higher than the legend will not be necessary to complete the collection!

Also, SDS is updating the players’ ratings weekly and this includes transactions.  So players such as, Craig Kimbrel, will now be in their new teams’ collection. This may be something that can drastically affect collections later on, so make sure you take advantage of the budget collections!

Let’s get started with the reviews!  Remember I am judging the Legend’s value, so this is a combination of what it costs to obtain them to how they actually perform on the field!

NL West

Arizona Diamondbacks: CF Steve Finley

Economics A: You don’t need Goldschmidt to complete this collection and it can be completed in under 5,000 stubs if you are patient.  Compared to other similar center fielders, 5k is a bargain.  Finley is also available on the market, albeit overpriced.  I highly recommend just going for the D-back’s collection.

Performance C+: Finley has two key advantages over most budget center fielders.  One he is left handed and two he has plus power.  There are not many power hitting outfielders with plus defense and speed.  You may want to have a good back up outfielder to platoon with Finley, but keep in mind that you will be facing mainly right handed pitching!  I recommend Kemp, Ozuna, or Gentry to platoon with Finley.  All three can be obtained for under 5k and Gentry is usually under 1k.

Overall B+: Finley is one of the lowest rated legends and some may argue if he really is a “legend”.  However, this is one of the few “budget” legends I recommend getting if you are limited on stubs and need a solid center fielder.  He has plus power and bats from the left side.  His downfall is that he only has 70 speed with an average arm, but I highly recommend going for Finley if you are on a budget and you like to play in small ball parks like Yankee Stadium, Franco Park, or Great American Ballpark. 

 

 

Colorado Rockies: RF Dante Bichette

Economics A: Similar to Finley, Bichette is also a “budget” legendary player.  He can be obtained for even less than Finley for around 3-4k.  You don’t have to worry about Tulo or Cargo to complete the collection and the Rockies do not even have that many silver players.  The reason I don’t give this grade an A+, however, is the fact Bichette is not really a starting right fielder for most DD teams.  His defense is average and his attributes vs right handed pitching is only above average.  Bichette will be overpriced on the market, so I recommend just going for the Rockies’ collection.

Performance C+: Bichette hits lefties quite well and is an above average hitter vs righties too.  He is comparable to a Matt Kemp or Justin Upton, and can probably be obtained much easier than both of those cards.  His defense is in the 60’s, including his speed and arm strength.  I don’t recommend playing him in RF, unless you are in a small park and do not have a better option.  He has hit, as expected, for me.  No huge surprises, good or bad.

Overall B: Bichette, again, is really not considered a legend to most and this is a reason a lot of people ignore the Rockies’ collection.  This is also another reason why this collection is so cheap.  Bichette makes a great platoon corner outfielder and should be in your lineup vs lefties.  I recommend using a smaller ball park if you want to start him in RF or LF.  Again, this is a collection I highly recommend if you are on a budget with your stubs!

 

Los Angeles Dodgers: SP Orel Hershiser

Economics D: This is going to be one of the most expensive collections out there.  You don’t need Kershaw, but you need Puig, Jansen, Greinke, Ryu, Gonzalez, Rollins, and Kendrick.  This collection will cost up to 40k in stubs and Hershiser cost about the same on the market.  You may have better luck bidding on the market.

Performance C+:  Hershiser has 60-70 per nine attributes with 5 quality pitches.  He does not have overpowering velocity or break, however.  His lack of a slider is also a letdown, especially when facing righties. 

Overall C-: Unless you are just a huge Dodger’s fan then I don’t recommend this legend.  He may be a novelty pitcher to have in your rotation, but I do not think he is worth the stubs.  You can get Lester, Hamels, Lee, Greinke, Sale, Kluber, and Wainwright for all under 20k and they are just as effective.  In fact, Hershiser is very similar to Greinke on this game and is much cheaper.

 

 

San Francisco Giants: 1B Will Clark

Economics B: Clark is one of many solid hitting first basemen in this game and is arguably one of the cheapest to obtain.  You don’t need Posey or Bumgarner for this collection, but you will need Pence.  Overall, this collection can be completed for 10-15k and it will also get you a solid right fielder plus a good bullpen.  Clark costs on the market.  I recommend just going for the collection to obtain him.

Performance B+:  Clark and McGriff are two of the legend first basemen that bat left handed and that is always one huge advantage.  What separates Clark from most of the other first basemen is that he throws left handed (which is a huge advantage for turning double plays) and is an excellent defensive first basemen.  He has great contact with good power vs righties, as well. 

Overall B: There are a lot of good hitting “budget” first basemen out there including: Lind, Morneau, Mauer, Duda, Adams, Belt, etc.  Clark is just simply better than all of these left handed hitting first basemen, but he will cost you a bit more.  However, he costs much less than the premier first basemen like Cabrera and Goldschmidt. He really is one the few “middle class” first basemen out there, along with McGriff.   It really is a preference for who you want at first base, since there are so many options! Regardless if you choose to go with Clark or not, I recommend having a right handed bat on the bench that can start and play vs left handed pitching.  

 

San Diego Padres: RF Dave Winfield

Economics B:  You won’t need the newly acquired Kimbrel to complete the Padres collection, which would have been a huge disappointment since both Kimbrel and Winfield have the same overall rating.  However, you will need Upton, Kemp, Cashner, and Shields.  This collection will cost anywhere from 20-25k and Winfield is overpriced upwards to 50k on the market, so just go with the collection.

Performance A:  Winfield is your prototypical right handed right fielder.  He has the strongest arm among all outfielders, 99 to be exact, with great defense and amazing hitting vs lefties.  His one downfall can be his hitting vs right handed pitching, but his defense makes up for it.  His hitting is not bad vs right handed pitching, but you may want to consider going an alternative route if you cannot hit well righty on righty.  I’d compare him to a player like Puig, but he has more power and better overall defense. 

Overall A-: Winfield and Dawson are two very similar legends and I give Winfield the edge due to how much cheaper he is to obtain and the fact his defense is a bit better.  Kaline and Kiner are a bit better, offensively, but cost much more to obtain via market and collections and again their defense is not up to par with Winfield’s defense.  If you want to get one Right Fielder in Diamond Dynasty while not spending 50k+ stubs then go for Winfield.  Obtaining a 95+ overall for 20k is a steal and you won’t be disappointed with Winfield’s overall play.  This is one collection I recommend doing, regardless if you are on a budget or if you are willing to empty your wallet.

We hope you enjoyed our review;  if so please like, share and comment. Make sure you stay tuned in to Sports Gamers Online for our next MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Legends Review on the NL Central!

 

MLB 15 The Show Diamond Dynasty Legends Reviews: NL West

NSFL Season 4 Early Predictions

We are a few games into NSFL season 4 and I wanted to share my thoughts on the rest of the season. I’m gonna give a break down of each division and predict who I think will win them.

Examining the AFC East Division

To no ones surprise the Buffalo Bills after 3 games sit atop the AFC EAST with a 3-0 record sporting a top 5 scoring D and offense they might be to much to overcome. The Jets off the a quick start at 2-1 while Pats and Phins bring up the rear.

PREDICTED WINNER: Buffalo Bills

Examination of the AFC North Division

This division is off to a hot start, everyone after 3 games is 2-1. The Browns with management in flux traded their franchise qb in the offseason still rank in the top 10 in all key offensive categories. Not to be out done the defense is top 5 in all categories. The Steelers rank towards the middle of the pack in offensive and defensive stats but they got a big division win over the Browns in week 3. The Ravens also has a top 10 D which gives them a chance. The Bengals offense to start the season is on fire averaging 30 points a game led by Everett Carter and Giovani Bernard this is pretty much a toss up.

PREDICTED WINNER: Pittsburgh Steelers

 

 

Taking a look at the AFC South Division

 

Let me start by saying with previous division winner Jacksonville off to a 1-2 start this division is pretty much up for grabs. You would think the blockbuster trade the Texans made for Manziel in the offseason would pay off but so far the chemistry just has not been there, there off to a 1-2 start. Good news for Titans fans, the team went winless last season but there on board with a 1-2 start. The colts well they have Andrew luck and are a top 10 scoring team. There off to a quick start at 2-1. Jags started off slow last season and heated up late I don’t think they can pull that off again.

PREDICTED WINNER: Indianapolis Colts

Examining the AFC West Division

The AFC is very competitive but this division on its own put 3 teams in the playoffs. This division is home of the SUPER BOWL CHAMP. Let’s start with the Raiders who start 1-3 but they have a top 10 passing attack and one of the best young qbs in the game in Derrick Carr. The Broncos start 3-0 with a boatload of talent on both sides of the ball won the division last year. The Chargers who were the surprise team of last season after firing their head coach early in the season and promoting their assistant coach they managed to make the playoffs and now they start 4-0. Let’s get to the Chiefs who are 3-0 with there suspended head coach set to return. The have the leagues top rushing attack and they are defending champs. In the AFC this is the toughest division and this was the toughest prediction.

PREDICTED WINNER: Kansas City Chiefs

 

Examining the NFC East Division

Here we go the good ole NFC EAST well to start the season we got the Eagles probably looking at a coaching change soon with the 0-4 start. To everyone’s surprise the GIANTS are 0-3 off to a slow start. The COWBOYS last years division winners off to a very slow start for their standard only averaging 11 points a game have not figured it out yet to begin the season. Upstart Washington are off to hot start with a 3-0 record and a explosive offense averaging almost 400 yards a game. I think the Washington offense will be to much for the division to handle this year.

PREDICTED WINNER: WASHINGTON

Examining the NFC North Division

This is a four team division that always ends up being a two team race. To no disrespect to the LIONS AND BEARS but the VIKINGS and PACKERS have been dominating this division and I don’t think it will change. The Vikings off to a hot start 3-0 lead the league in scoring 32.3 points a game and have a stout run defense only giving up 43 yards a game. The Packers start off 2-1 deciding to take the ball out of Aaron Rodgers hands a go with Erik Denney and because of it the passing game is suffering. The qb change might be to much to overcome this year for the previous division winner.

PREDICTED WINNER: Minnesota Vikings

Breaking down the NFC South division

With last years division winner Atlanta Falcons off to a 0-3 start, let’s just say this division is up for grabs. The Falcons are turning the ball over to much this year and if they expect to climb out of the early whole that has to stop. The Saints also winless only averaging 10 points a game and are dead last in rushing. Being 0-3 they also have to figure things out to turn it around. The Buccaneers sit at 1-2 with hope that their top 10 defense can carry them to glory. Division leading PANTHERS are off to a 2-1 start but only averaging 15 points a game and having a middle of the pack defense they aren’t exactly running away with the division unless they improve as well. With no division games played yet I think the Falcons still have hope!

PREDICTED WINNER: ATLANTA FALCONS

NFC West Preview

The mighty NFC WEST like the AFC WEST had 3 teams with double digit wins last year but all 3 did not qualify for the playoffs. To start the season we got the team that made the Super Bowl off to a slow start. After the crushing defeat in the Super Bowl the team is sputtering to open the season at 1-2. The 49ers who were a top team all last season also start at 1-2. With the offense struggling early who knows what type of season they are gonna have. Division champs from last year are 2-1 but are also struggling in key areas. Ranked next to last in total offense there has to be some concern coming from the Arizona camp. They still have a top flight defense so I’m sure they will figure it out. The surprise of the division and season so far is the resurgence of the Seattle Seahawks at 3-0 the offense is flying high averaging 27 points a game. With the defense getting back to themselves only giving up 11 points a game. The true test for Seattle will be the division games. So with that being said I think the cards are to talented not to come out back on top.

PREDICTED WINNER: Arizona Cardinals

NSFL Season 4 Early Predictions

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Madden 16 Release Date Set for August 25

We are sure you are ready to get your hands on Madden 16. EA has finally announced the Madden 16 release date and it is set to launch on August 25, 2015.

Make sure you follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest Madden 16 news, reviews and updates.

 

 

 

Madden 16 Release Date Set for August 25

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Madden 15 Tips: Dominating on Offense with Option Routes - Part 1

During a play, you see one of your receivers open, but before you can throw it you get sacked….in frustration you no huddle to run the same play over again, but your opponent either changed their play or hot routed a defender to cover and now you’re in trouble…sound familiar? Now, if that route was an option route it would have adjusted to the defense switching from Cover 2 to Cover 3 by converting from a streak to a curl route, keeping you one step ahead of the defense and eliminating a lot of those “oh crap” moments. Option routes allow the receiver to give you their best route versus whatever coverage the defense throws at you by giving you a better chance to complete the play.

Shotgun Trips- 60 Slide is equipped with many quick developing routes that put receiver’s ability to gain yards after the catch into focus. Running this play consistently, your competition will raise to the high 60’s and even the low 70’s and will find yourself having many 0 interception games. Also, mixing the “dink and dunk” nature of the offense with big play capabilities all within the same play or even the same route will allow your quarterback to post big passing yardage numbers.

Circle receiver (B on Xbox): Is most important to the play, being as he’s the isolated receiver away from the play, so he has to win his matchup or else the defense can leave him one on one. The more defenders the defense allocate towards stopping him, the less defenders they have for the 4 receiver side. Circle is often the guy that moves the chains and has the best chance of leading your team in catches.

Triangle receiver (Y on Xbox): Obviously need a running back who isn’t allergic to the ball , but since his back is turned to any oncoming defender when he catches it, they don’t need to be Marshall Faulk to hold on to it either. R1 (RB on Xbox) receiver needs to be tall enough to own the seam route and make the tough underneath catches without a problem.

X receiver (A on Xbox): Even though he’s the 3rd receiver on the depth chart, he is the 5th option on the play. The X receiver is the guy who will “take what the defense gives you” , as he’s only left open on purpose. He’s the guy who relies most on his open field moves to gain yardage.

Square receiver (X on Xbox): Along with the Circle and R1 receiver, he will be top 3 on your team in catches and due to having a fade route in his route tree will lead your team in yards.

Hopefully you enjoyed these Madden 15 Tips on dominating with Option Routes, stay tuned for the next part in this series here at Sports Gamers Online.

Madden 15 Tips: Dominating on Offense with Option Routes - Part 1

Monday, April 13, 2015

MLB 15 The Show Music Tracks for Each Stadium!!

An awesome Reddit user DodgerBlueNLakerGold has compiled Spotify tracks for each of the MLB Stadiums. So now you can not only play the most authentic baseball game to date you can do it with great tunes that are inspired by each location.

“Each playlist contains 15 tracks. Not all songs used are from the respective city, however that was my main focus. Songs can be related to the team, surrounding area, or is used as actual stadium music. I hope you guys enjoy!”

America League:

Baltimore

Boston

Cleveland

Chicago

Detroit

Houston

Kansas City

Anaheim

Minnesota

New York

Oakland

Seattle

Tampa Bay

Texas

Toronto

National League:

Arizona

Atlanta

Chicago

Cincinnati

Colorado

Los Angeles

Miami

Milwaukee

New York

Philadelphia

Pittsburgh

San Diego

San Francisco

St. Louis

Washington D.C.

MLB 15 The Show Music Tracks for Each Stadium!!

Destiny House of Wolves Trailer. Set to Release May 19th

Destiny‘s second expansion, House of Wolves, will be released May 19, publisher Activision announced today. Over four months after the previous expansion The Dark Below, House of Wolves is the final expansion in the Destiny Expansion Pass ($34.99) and is a welcome treat to Destiny fans have been desperately seeking new content. Checkout the launch trailer above!

 

 

 

Destiny House of Wolves Trailer. Set to Release May 19th

The Order 1886 Patch 1.02 Adds Photo Mode

Sony has released a new update The Order: 1886 , which introduces the photo mode . This mode is entered with the number patch 1.02, and is available now. This can be activated from the menu to pause the game, and allows us to adjust many aspects, and even delete characters environment to photograph the scenes.

Some unique capabilities of Order 1886 photo mode:

– ability to freely move camera around gameworld [however camera is locked in cinematics]

– ability to remove enemies/galahad from gameworld for clearer shots

– built-in game effects such as film grain/focus/lens flares can be modified [or turned off]

– color grading lock, enabling to continue playing the game with different visual styles

The Order 1886 Patch 1.02 Adds Photo Mode

Saturday, April 11, 2015

MLB 15 The Show Tips: How to Effectively Use the Slide Step

The slide step was only usable when doing a pitch out last year, but we all know that if you’ve played online then users could use that as a cue and they would simply go retreat back to the bag. The slide step is now finally introduced in MLB 15 The Show and it now allows users the ability to hold runners more closely, throw out more runners, and it can also be used to show a different arm angle.

To use the slide step simply just hold the R2 button down while pitching. It doesn’t matter which interface you are using either. This will be the easiest with classic and pulse pitching since you execute your interface before the pitch is actually delivered. It can take some time and practice with Pure Analog and Meter pitching, but it will be worth it.

Be sure to mix in some pitch outs and track your opponent’s tendencies. For example, some users will always go on first pitch and some may go on the 2nd or 3rd pitch. Be aware of your opponents’ tendencies and utilize the slide step, as well as the pitch out. They won’t be able to tell the difference and they will be thrown out the majority of the time.

I recommend using the slide step for the majority of the time when a decent runner is on 1st. It will show your opponent that you are paying attention to them and they make think twice before stealing. Sometimes the best way to combat base stealers is forcing them to stay on first!

Mix in some pick off attempts, stepping off the rubber, and just simply holding the ball to mix up your timing to the plate. Users may try to counteract the slide step with an early steal, so be sure to step off and throw over a few times. You can do a casual throw over by tapping circle twice, deceptive pick off with holding circle, and a quick pick off with tapping circle once. Users now have an array of tools in their arsenal so be sure and utilize them all!

The slide step can also be a way to show your opponent a different arm angle and it may freeze them. We are still in the honeymoon phase of MLB 15 The Show and many online users are not used to seeing pitches in the strike zone utilized with slide steps. This can be a “change up” to them. For pitchers with side arm or submarine deliveries the slide step will completely change their arm slot and can confuse your opponent as well. I recommend to use this strategy for a 3rd strike to get them looking!

Let me know how much success you’ve guys had with the slide step and be sure to try out the slide step if you have not yet. Look for more MLB 15 The Show Tips to come during the season!

MLB 15 The Show Tips: How to Effectively Use the Slide Step

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Football Manager Classic 2015 Launch Trailer

Football Manager Classic 2015 launched today on ios and android devices. The game allows you to choose from a player database of 150,000 from 117 real leagues across the world and then watch action unfold. Powered by their 3D match engine this football (soccer) simulation looks like a winner on handheld devices.

Football Manager Classic 2015 Launch Trailer

Madden 16: 10 Dropped Features That Should Return to Madden

With every new madden that comes out in August we always get a few new features. We get all excited we get new modes and updated rosters but what i really notice is what we have lost. Since Madden 05 we have gained new features and we have lost features. In this list I will be going through the 10 features I hope make a return to Madden 16!

 10. “Muddy Playing Field” in Madden 08

Some of the greatest games in NFL history were played in terrible field conditions. In Madden 08 when you played in a game in rain or snow by the end of the game the jerseys and pants would be muddy and players would be slipping all over the place. This was super cool but it never carried over into the new maddens. It would be a feature that with the realism of the next gen consoles this would be absolutely unreal. Madden 16 needs to add this feature because although the weather is decently well done in madden 15 there could be much improvement to make those cold wet conditions that much more realistic.

9. “Controllable Touchdown Celebrations” in Madden 08

Touchdown celebrations are a huge part of the NFL in this day and age. There is the Gronk Spike the Graham goal post slam and all of these are closely connected to our favourite players. Now for all of the other players it would be nice to have a say in what celebration you want to use. Maybe have a option like 2K My Park where you can choose from celebrations to use when you score! Have one for each button and then give you the choice once you score. Its small things like this that make the game just that much better and there is nothing better than taunting a friend or a online opponent after you get a big score! Madden 16 should bring this back its a small feature but its the small details that add polish to a game.

8. “Adaptive Difficulty” in Madden 09

This is one of the coolest features that Madden has ever had and that really needs to be brought back. This may not be crucial for the gamers who have been playing for a long time but for the new gamers this is great. It is hard to find a difficulty that is just right for you but with this feature the CPU would adapt depending on your skill as the game goes on. There is nothing worse than playing on a difficulty that is way to easy or one that is way to difficult. This is why adaptive difficulty is such a cool feature and really allows you to have good games with the CPU! Madden 16 should bring back this feature as it would be huge for the non online players!

7. “Team Newspapers” in Madden 05

This was a small feature but it was also super satisfying to see your created player or the star of your franchise on the front page of the newspaper. They had the “ San Francisco Chronicle” the “Boston Globe” and many other city newspapers for you to be on the front page of. It would be pretty easy to get this back in the game and we feel like it would be quite popular in Madden 16.  It could be way more interactive with the ability to flip pages and click to read more on the topics. Hopefully Madden 16 decides to bring back this small feature which would be a great edition to CFM modes.

6. “ Assemble A Coaching Staff” in Madden 05

This has never made a return to the Madden franchise and we are not sure why,  it would be very cool to  be able to pick your entire coaching staff. You could bring in assistant or positional coaches that help your offense or defense in a different way. Maybe if you get a former spread based college coach to be your Offensive Coordinator your team gets +1 Speed. Or if you get a old school blitz heavy coach your defence could get +1 block shedding or Hit Power. This feature may  be a little far fetched but is something they could build on and really take it to the next level in Madden 16!

5. Cheerleaders in Madden 05

Cheerleaders have always been a important aspect of the NFL experience and you would think that would mean it would translate to madden. That however is not the case madden hasn’t had cheerleaders in a long time and they really need to bring this back. It’s really not going to make or break Madden 16 if they have cheerleaders but it would be a really cool feature to make the madden experience just like a real NFL broadcast!

4. “Create A Superbowl Ring” in Madden 08

Madden and Jostens partnered up in Madden 2008 to give gamers the option to create their own customizable ring if they win the Superbowl. So winning the Super Bowl in Madden is not easy it takes a long regular season and some clutch victories in the playoffs. We have had cool celebrations after the big win in recent years but must say creating a ring would be incredibly fun to do. Some of our favorite teams may never win a Super Bowl anytime soon but doing it on Madden is a close as we will ever get. So when we do win we want as many features as possible.

3. “ Create a Team” in Madden 05

So when we say create a team we don’t mean Madden Ultimate Team. This was a mode where you could build your teams own stadium design the logos and pick the players you want to have represent your team. This mode needs to be brought back and with the graphics next gen consoles have you could get really creative with the stadium design. This mode allows you the opportunity to create the “ Next Great Team” and would really be a lot of fun.

2. “Be A Superstar Mode” in Madden 07

We still have create a player mode but i think we would all agree it lacks presentation In Madden 16 they could make major upgrades. After creating and customizing your player you could start the NFL draft process which is one that would be absolutely epic to replicate. You could run through all the combine drills, run the 40, and do the specific drills depending on what position you want to play. Now just imagine the draft interview process you could talk to all the head coaches and owners and give answers that would help determine who you would get drafted by. The draft process would be just the beginning and they could have presentation for the whole season as you learn and grow with your team.

1. Team Play in Madden 25

I don’t understand at all why they decided to take Team Play out of the game completely. I get it was not the most popular mode in the game but everyone i know who played it loved it. It was a chance to play with your best online friends and each of you could play the position they are strongest at. It also had a competitive leaderboard that you could climb with your community. This needs to return in Madden 16 and we will be absolutely ecstatic if it does!

So do you agree with us and think that these modes should return or are you happy some of these features were taken out of the game? Let us know in the comments what you think and be sure to check me out on youtube!

Madden 16: 10 Dropped Features That Should Return to Madden

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