EA Sports to honour Habs' centennial season
posted by Kevin Mio at 21h28 EST on Aug 19
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Comments
Submitted by RH on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 22:01.
Wow! Makes me want to dig up my old playstation. Alas, who has time with kids and all. Still, I wouldn't mind picking up the game for a keepsake.
On a different note, anyone know whether or not the all-time greats, such as Harvey, and Richard etc, are entitled to royalties from EA Sports? I would imagine their estate, or next of kin, or whatever legal terminology one would use, would have justification for such a case.
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Thu, 08/21/2008 - 01:21.
I wouldn't think so -- I know EA works out deals with the NHL and the NHLPA, not with individual players. Not sure how it works with former players, but I can't imagine EA sending money to Lafleur, Roy, Geoffrion's estate, etc... How would they even work out how much to give them? I can't imagine the centennial tribute having much of an impact on sales outside of Quebec.
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by RH on Fri, 08/22/2008 - 21:01.
I don't know. I think there are more Habs fans outside of Quebec, than we like to think and, provided they have a gaming console of some kind, would probably be interested in this. I know I'll be keeping an eye out.
Submitted by moser17 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 12:46.
The host's jacket is the very, very best. (NB: These guys don't get to talking about the centennial canadiens team until the 9:00 minute mark. ... and they look amazing!)
Submitted by pher pher on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 12:13.
Hey Kevin (Mio), there's a link problem with the Facebook option. When I try and post this article on FB it brings me to the 'Laraque remembers the Rocket' post.
Submitted by TommyB on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:09.
I walked away from console-type gaming years ago, preferring to go the PC gaming route instead. But now...holy smoke has this got the juices flowing. I can't see myself slapping down $350+ just so I can play a video game, but I was wondering....NHL 09 will also be available as a PC game. Does anyone here have any first-hand knowledge as to how these kind of games perform on a PC? I am really curious. I know I have to play this game in some way, shape, or form.
Submitted by MikeL on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:56.
Stay away from the PC version. They have had minimal updates in the last few years and it in no way compares to the 360 or PS3 versions. They are essentially different games. Current Gen versions (PC and PS2) are made at EA Montreal and the next gen versions (360 and PS3) at EA Vancouver. I bought the 360 two years ago just for NHL 07 (the first next-gen hockey game). I have never regretted it and I highly recommend the 360.
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:23.
I've never played an NHL game on PC that stacked up to its console counterpart, and NHL'08's PC incarnation was apparently a shadow of what it was on 360, stacking up better with the PS2 version. That doesn't necessarily mean this'll hold true for '09, but I find sports games in general are better on consoles.
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by TommyB on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 20:57.
Thanks for the information, guys. Not what I wanted to hear, but pretty much what I expected to hear. Damn!
Submitted by Lemur on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:08.
Good morning,
Its about time they've brought in the classic teams into '08, its been a long-time coming. The top 5 things to make NHL Video Games Better
1. Instant Replays should include more hits!
2. Classic Teams/Players (like soccer and Basketball)
3. More Team Jerseys (the last version only had the RBK
4. Integrate an arcade style mode (2x2, 3x3, 3x1 hog)with special dekes and craziness similar to NHL hits or OPEN ICE.
5. New referees for the game, the same old mug gets old after a while.
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:46.
A few more for the wishlist:
1. Ragdoll physics for hits.
2. Injuries should be triggered by things other than hipchecks, like other strong hits, slap shots, etc.
3. Players should reach their potential more quickly.
4. Stronger goaltending AI vs. one-timers.
5. Less idiotic announcer comments! (I’m done with hearing about lasers, light beams and cannonades from the point.)
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by MikeL on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 11:59.
Some of the things on your wishlist are actually in 09. They changed the entire hitting engine, and added about 200 animations of hits. They also added different ways to get hurt.
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 13:40.
Nice!
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by Drive_For_25 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 10:37.
Love it!!! I normally just hope for a little recognition and respect for the greatest organization in sports history, but this is amazing!!!! Can't wait to play it.
Submitted by Johnny_Offensive on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 10:35.
I would have put Lafleur on the cover, personally...
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 10:27.
Habs legends invade NHL09 .. by Manny Almela .. Canadiens.com ..... http://canadiens.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=...
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 09:56.
Interesting that the only player on the Leafs' roster in this game with an all-important Wrist Shot Accuracy stat higher than 80 is... Mats Sundin. Not sure why he's still there -- I guess they had to give people in the Toronto market a reason to buy the game. The rest of the team's stats are rubbish.
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by RGM on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 08:55.
It's really a shame that hockey has yet to come to the Wii in full force (yes I know, NHL2K9 will be the first this fall) because as a Nintendo loyalist and prospective Wii buyer, being able to play this game would probably put me over the top in my desire to buy one/get one for Christmas. I loves my Nintendo hockey, and I'm just not wanting to venture out and try new things in video game land. :)
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Go Habs Go!
Submitted by MikeMcLaren on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 15:10.
As you mentioned, only NHL2K9 will be available for the Wii. To give you an idea of their hot new feature this year that differentiates it from NHL 09... it's a zamboni mini-game. Yep. You play a game in between periods with the zamboni. No stick-lifting, no improved physics, no online leagues, etc.
If you're interested in getting the best hockey game for a console then grab a 360 or a PS3; the Wii is a good console for playing games that get you physically involved, but not for hockey. I suspect that given how much development effort they put into the 360/PS3 game they won't have a Wii version coming any time soon. Its online abilities lag behind the other two and obviously the graphics ability isn't up to snuff.
/\\ike
GO HABS GO!
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 09:44.
Trust me, NHL '08 for XBox 360 was the best hockey video game I've ever played, and I was playing NHL '93 back on the Sega Genesis. Awesome game, and '09 promises to be much, much better. A video game/hockey fan's gotta play it.
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by coutNY on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 08:16.
Price the makes the "best value" list amoung some of the NHL's greatest... coming in at #29
http://tsn.ca/columnists/scott_cullen/?id=246911&lid=headline&lpos=topSt...
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 09:45.
I thought it was odd -- and more than a little disappointing -- that he wasn't even in NHL '08 until the roster updates. Not even in Hamilton.
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by Robert L on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 06:03.
1917-18 Malone Paces Canadiens In NHL Launch
http://wwwrealitycheckeyesontheprize.blogspot.com/2008/08/1917-18-malone...
Submitted by G-Man on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 05:32.
I've always wanted EA to do a "Classic NHL" game, featuring rosters from the 50's, 60's and 70's. Great Habs players shouldn't be forgotten, and neither should Orr, Hull (Bobby), and Howe. It would be a blast for us old timers. Oh yeah, bring back the center line for this game, too. One last word: imagine recreating the Robinson- Schultz fights?
Gilbert
2008/09 is the season of the Habs
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 05:13.
EA Sports and their Crystal Ball .. by Alanah McGinley .. Canucks and Beyond ..... http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/CandB/comments/ea_sports_and_their...
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 04:46.
NHL 09 Media Blowout .. RotoTimes.com .. for Taking one for the team ..... http://takingonefortheteam.blogspot.com/
Submitted by VladIsMyDad on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 02:51.
I can't freaking wait for this game.
It's got an online mode called the EAHL (Electronic Arts Hockey League) where you can make a team with your friends and challenge other teams to games.
Apparently the best team will be awarded a trophy at the real-life All-Star Game.
See the video at this link for a better explanation.
http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/14230950/nhl-09/videos/nhl09_commenta...
Submitted by Devin_G7 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 23:45.
They should put koivu on the cover, it looks sweet... too bad phaneufs got it
Submitted by projectpete19 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 23:59.
i think he is on the cover for the xbox
Submitted by Corporate on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 00:31.
Koivu is a photoshop cutout.... Phaneuf is on the real packaging
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by Shan on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 08:58.
That's a shame, it looks and feels fantastic with Koivu. Phaneuf would have had plenty of chances to be the cover later.
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Their defenses are broken! Let the slaughter begin!
Submitted by pher pher on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 12:07.
Is Koivu going to be on the cover for the PS3? I hope so. Remember last year, I believe they had a couple players on the cover..maybe they'll do the same this year!!
Submitted by habs-13 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 23:40.
Anyone know if Lafleur is on the All-Time Canadiesn team?
Submitted by Corporate on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 00:32.
Yes he is...
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by spirit of the Habs on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 00:13.
you would have to believe so
In other news stephane legein may be quitting Blue Jackets.
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:39.
I was wondering.. instead of planning a Summit... We could setup a gamer night.. With a bunch of XBOX's and just play our hearts out... Would anybody interested??
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by habsfan2442 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 07:28.
I am in.. Sounds great for a game night...
Submitted by cautiousoptimist on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 09:48.
Me too!
1. www.flickeringpictures.com - not a hockey site, but still kinda neat
2. Josh Gorges on Montreal's attack: "They're comin', they're comin' and they keep comin'. Just line after line, wave after wave..."
Submitted by habs-13 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:29.
NHL 09 is going to be amazing. I had a couple of suggestions after playing NHL 08, but we'll save that for another time. In 09, they have the delay of game penatly and your defensive skill stick is amazing. Hopefully some of our Habs have gained some respect from EA and have decent ratings.
Can't wait.
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:06.
Will vintage uniforms be back this year??? I love to play with the old nordiques jersey vs the montreal canadiens...
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by chelios_24 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:00.
Is Mats Naslund in the game? Chelios as a Hab on defense? I mean after the big three and Doug Harvey...Chelly should be there.
Submitted by Sami on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 08:10.
IMO Tom Johnson should be before Chelios...........
Submitted by Chuck on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 02:47.
So you're rating Chelios as the fifth-best Hab defender of all time?
Mmmmm... no.
__________________________________
Submitted by sanj91 on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 21:49.
Is Koivu actually on the cover or did Mike get bored on vacation and take out the old Photoshop? If he is, that's a very nice gesture by EA Sports. Can't wait to kick some Philly ***. Hopefully this time around Komisarek will have a higher rating than Hal Gill.
Submitted by MikeMcLaren on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:05.
Phaneuf's on the cover this year - a bunch of folks have taken to making custom covers so I think that's where Kevin snagged the Koivu cover.
If you check out the following link, they have all the ratings for the players (every number EXCEPT overall rating because they were still working on the formula for that I believe)
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/898/898201p1.html
Komisarek's has a checking rating of 90 as opposed to Gill's 89 this year by the way.
/\\ike
GO HABS GO!
Submitted by Just A Guy on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 02:34.
Well if anything they got one thing right, Koivu's toughness rating is 99 (out of 100 or do they stop at 99 since the raiting might not allow triple digits?)
Anyways, bang on EA haha..
Submitted by sanj91 on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 07:53.
They've always put Koivu's toughness to the max, or near it, ever since his return from cancer.
Submitted by Yeats on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 21:38.
Is Mats a Hab in this year's edition?
Submitted by db on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 23:31.
Mats retires in the game.
The number 21273 makes me smile.
Submitted by gmd on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 21:36.
Awesome, can't wait to get it.
Submitted by The Professor on Wed, 08/20/2008 - 00:30.
All about the PS3
Light wireless controllers, great graphics, great for sports games, and a technology in its early stage game-wise
Submitted by MikeMcLaren on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 21:46.
I was psyched to get this game even before I stumbled upon the link to Littman playing as the Centennial Habs today.
I dunno about the rest of you, but when I play NHL 08 (or any of the NHL series) I will *only* play as the Canadiens no matter who my oponent is playing as.
This has hurt my record online as people will often pick Pittsburgh, Detroit or Ottawa or even Team Canada to get a leg up on the competition.
Now I will finally have the "nuclear option" of icing a team with Richard, Beliveau and Lafleur up front with Harvey and Robinson on D and Roy in goal.
Ha!
(Of course, most of the time I will simply use the 2008-09 edition of the team)
/\\ike
GO HABS GO!
Submitted by gmd on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 21:54.
Which gaming system do you use? I'm wondering which system this game would work best with.
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:02.
I don't know about the 2009 but I do own the 2008 version of the game... The choice should be between Playstation 3 or Xbox 360... If you get the game for either of these systems it will be great...
Now I own an XBOX 360 and sports games are amazing on them... Yes, the playstation has all the power, but they have very little games to show for it yet... That should probably change this year, but as of this message, Xbox wins in my book...
If you get the Wii, the graphics aren't as good as the other two systems and you have to get used to the controllers... I believe they have a classic controller so it shouldn't be as bad... Hope this helps...
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by MikeMcLaren on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:01.
I play on the XBox 360.
I think the 360 will probably be the best for this year's edition as it is the only one that has the added feature of being able to import your own MP3's for customized songs after goals, intro songs, etc.
So if you want the old Goal Song back, you can just go find the mp3, upload it to your XBox 360 and then punch it in for when the Habs score.
You can also find the Empire Strikes Back to use for the Powerplay etc.
Pretty much just ear candy, but the 360 is the only system with that functionality (they tried to get it working for the PS3, but couldn't get it done in time apparently).
/\\ike
GO HABS GO!
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:04.
Didn't know that.. Thanks for the info... What is your gamertag, we should play when we get the game...
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by MikeMcLaren on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:14.
Gamertag is
SPORK 12
/\\ike
GO HABS GO!
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 22:27.
Mine is Corporate1
Players win games, teams win championships.
- Bill Taylor
Submitted by gmd on Tue, 08/19/2008 - 23:17.
Thanks to you both, sounds like XBox is the way to go.
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