The way I read it is the "Ovi Dekes" (dekes on the goalie) can be controlled by Left Bumper + either a face button OR a right analog flick. So hitting X and pressing left on the right analog would do the same thing, for example. The 1 on 1 dekes are different in that it's Left Bumper + face buttons pull off some moves, and then the left bumper with the right analog pulled off different moves.
But the face buttons for the 1 on 1 dekes are seemed to be more rare moves you'd see, like spins. The A button allows you to kick the puck off your skates/deke through your legs.
Anyway, I loved this insight blog. It's great getting the insight from someone we know and trust in WWTC. It's so cool seeing someone who was just a hardcore fan of the game and is now actually there helping make the game. So you know some of that stuff hardcore fans have been wanting will make it into the game because guys like WWTC and Shadow are on the NHL 2k team.
I like the new way passing is done, mostly because of how WWTC explained it: you can now pass loose pucks! I think that'll be incredible when there's a loose puck in the goal mouth and maybe you don't think your guy has the angle for the shot even if the goalie is out of position. Add that extra pass and it's a slam dunk. Great to hear dumps are done better as well; they're very important, especially when playing a sim game, but often overlooked. Glad they got some love.
Finally, and what I loved the most, the discussion on sliders.
Specifically, I was thrilled to hear that difficulty is based off the sliders instead of a difficulty setting and then sliders to adjust that. That's how NFL 2k5 did it, among other 2k Sports games, and I always thought that was the best way to go about it. Like WWTC said in the article, no "under the hood, mysterious" boosts. Also, great description for the sliders and I really hope that add that in the game too (like MLB 09 The Show). Too many times I've looked at a slider and said, what exactly does this do? Everyone seems to have a different opinion on what a slider does, but when it's explained, it cuts down on that (though not totally
). Plus, WWTC gives us a nice little tip regarding speed burst and how to set it so everyone can get about 20 seconds of juice.
Excellent blog. I'm hoping the next one (due out today?) will be just as informative. It deals with stick lifts, stumble shots, and incidental contact, which I think are GREAT additions to this year's games and will play a huge role in really making the game a simulation experience. Really looking forward to hearing the Dev Insight on these features.