Improving the AI of computer-controlled players is one of EA Canada's main objectives in NHL 12. To do that, they threw in signature traits, "qualities assigned to players that will result in positioning and play-style that causes AI players to mimic the tendencies of their real-life counterparts when in possession of the puck, or off puck."

The following are some of the many signature traits found in the game. Further down is a video showing these traits in action.

• Positional and non-puck carrier traits:
  • Net Agitators – players who position themselves in front of the net and are consistently screening and distracting the goalie. Example: Tomas Holmstrom
  • Net Presence – players who hang out in front of the net looking for screens and deflections. Example: Ryan Kesler
  • Peripheral players – players who prefer the corners and shay away from the net and the grittier areas. Example: Alex Kovalev
  • Setup Players – players who setup down low and look for shooters in the slot. Example: Joe Thornton
  • Finishes Hits – players who will finish their hit after the puck is gone. Example: Matt Cooke
  • Non-Physical – players who rarely throw hits. Example: Henrik Sedin
  • Offensive Opportunists - players who aggressively anticipate the play and look for the quick breakaway pass. Example: Marian Gaborik
  • Shooter Slot – players who frequently position themselves in the slot, when setup in the offensive zone. Example: Mike Cammalleri
  • Shoots on the Rush – players who are more likely to shoot during the rush than dump the puck in or maintain possession. Example: Alexander Ovechkin
• Puck carrier traits:
  • Drives the Net – forwards who like to drive hard to the net. Example: Sidney Crosby
  • Dump and Chaser – players who dump and chase. Example: Many 3rd and 4th liners
  • One-time Specialists – players who frequently and effectively put themselves in position for on-timers. Example: Steven Stamkos
  • Puck Protectors – players who control the puck by maintaining possession during the rush, looking for passing opportunities. Example: Henrik Sedin
• Defensemen traits:
  • Pinching D – Defensemen who are more likely to attempt riskier plays in the offensive zone. Example: Brent Seabrook
  • Rush Joining D – Defensemen who aren’t afraid to and excel at leading the rush. Example: Duncan Keith

NHL 12 is scheduled to be released on September 9th in Europe and September 13th in North America. Other features being introduced in this installment include a revamped Be A Pro mode and a brand new Full Contact Physics Engine.

Via [EA.com]

Tweet

50% of voters think this story ROCKS!

Vote Now!    (1) (1)