NHL EHM Patch 3

[Karim]

The final patch is now available. Just head on over to SI...

[MizzouRah]

Hmmmm... thanks!


Todd

[Maple Leafs]

Final?

[Karim]

Yes, final. The game is quite solid now. Time to move onto FM and the development of the next version of EHM.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Is there a patch coming out for the downloaded version?

[henry296]

Is there a patch coming out for the downloaded version?

The SI Board said maybe not until Monday. They need Softwrap's approval.

Todd

[MizzouRah]

Yes, final. The game is quite solid now. Time to move onto FM and the development of the next version of EHM.
That's great news, thanks.


Todd

[Havok]

is this gonna fix the boom/bust with drafting at all??? i heard that like every first round pick basically becomes the player you expect him to become.

Thats like the one thing holding be back from buying this game :(

[scooter]

Here's the change list from the source (SI forums):

News
----
News now sent to shortlisting teams when a player is made available

Competitions
------------
Tweaked playoff scheduling to reduce back-to-back games
Corrected assignment of teams entering Swedish Allsvenskan
Corrected WHL playoff home ice advantage picking
Corrected some european leagues Playoff team picking orders

Other
-----
Fixed the initial non-player salary issue at the start of a game
Tuned the number of extra scouts assigned for NHL teams at the start of the game
Tuned player evaluation in trades
Fixed NHL games played limits in waiver rules
Tuned head coach control over lines when using human selections
Fixed overaged players in CHL not getting dressed in spring time
Fixed a player regeneration crash with a corrupt(edited) database
Fixed html otuput of player stats(goals, assists etc)
Fixed ranomisation of player height/weight when only one of these was set in the database
Fixed incorrect ban string being shown when a player has been released from his team whilst still banned

Data
----
Additional minor data fixes

[Ryan S]

Can someone remind me what you put into the extra_config.cfg file to get the real arena/minor league team names?

[SlapBone]

"I_DONT_KNOW"

[McSweeny]

"I_DONT_KNOW"

why bother posting if you don't know?

[Maple Leafs]

why bother posting if you don't know?
Seriously. Not to mention his terrible punctuation.

[Chief Rum]

"I_DONT_KNOW"

Is that the only key word? I thought there were more?

CR

[sachmo71]

Is that the only key word? I thought there were more?

CR


That's it. Just make sure it's in the body of the config file. And don't forget the quotes.

[MizzouRah]

Can you use the 1.0.5 box patch for the demo?


Todd

[MizzouRah]

dola,

..and what downloads do I need for the game? There are so many to choose from the Blue Line site.

also, codes like the one above?


Thanks,

Todd

[sachmo71]

I believe that the patches work for the demo, but I only saw patches for the boxed game and the mac version when I was on the site tonight.

Also, i haven't looked at the Blue Line site, but the only code I have is the I dont know code.

[Johnny93g]

The ""I_DON'T_KNOW" Code is the only one I'm using....much better then the fake teams...

As for downloads, what I downloaded from the Blueline site is the following:
Facepacks
NHL - Draft 2004
NHL - Missing players and prospects
QMJHL Facepack
WHL Facepack

Misc
Commentary (Smetana's) v0.90
Media - North America & Finland

Every Titlebar thats for a REAL league

Backgrounds
NHL Arena Pack 1 & 2
QMJHL & WHL Backgrounds

Both North America Rink Files

[MizzouRah]

Thanks guys!

I'm just hoping the 1.0.5 patch (box) works with the demo.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

dola,

It seems like it's working. (the patch)


Todd

[SlapBone]

why bother posting if you don't know?

That's the code dillweed :)

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

I take it this means that EHM is finally worth buying right. Oh and how fast does simulating a season take and how is the career stat tracking?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Seriously. Not to mention his terrible punctuation.

Hey, mate, watch it there. Underscores are cool. They will be the dominant punctuation of the future...

[samifan24]

dola,

It seems like it's working. (the patch)


Todd

Funny, I downloaded the box patch and tried to start a new game in the demo and got a "please insert game CD" message so I had to uninstall the demo.

[MizzouRah]

Funny, I downloaded the box patch and tried to start a new game in the demo and got a "please insert game CD" message so I had to uninstall the demo.
Shoot... let me try that. I just meant it updated the game to 1.0.5 - I haven't tried to start a game yet.


Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

So are player instructions finally 100% tied to the player? You know, I think this was the only thing that kept me off the game.

[MizzouRah]

Shoot... let me try that. I just meant it updated the game to 1.0.5 - I haven't tried to start a game yet.


Todd
Darn it! I didn't go that far last night, I just made sure it said 1.0.5 on the main screen. This sucks!

Todd

[Karim]

is this gonna fix the boom/bust with drafting at all??? i heard that like every first round pick basically becomes the player you expect him to become.
There is no indication from the fix list that this was addressed. I've heard unfortunate reports that this may be true which would be a huge disappointment. I'm not far enough in my career to verify or disprove.

..and what downloads do I need for the game? There are so many to choose from the Blue Line site.
Like Johnny93g, I use every titlebar that is for a real league and the media file. In addition, I use Minstrel's real NHL rinks and Minstrel's Metal Skin. The only thing I don't like about his skin is that he replaced the stars with hockey pucks. I had become so used to the stars that I replaced those graphics with the default stars.

[Marc Vaughan]

Funny, I downloaded the box patch and tried to start a new game in the demo and got a "please insert game CD" message so I had to uninstall the demo.
The patch is for a full version of the game only I'm afraid - at some point we'll update the demo so its a 'patched' version ...

[MizzouRah]

The patch is for a full version of the game only I'm afraid - at some point we'll update the demo so its a 'patched' version ...
What about the "try before you buy"? ..or is that the same thing as the "demo"?

I'm confused. :eek:

In other words, is the only way to play with 1.0.5 is to buy the game?


Todd

[Havok]

There is no indication from the fix list that this was addressed. I've heard unfortunate reports that this may be true which would be a huge disappointment. I'm not far enough in my career to verify or disprove.

Thats very disapointing :(

I was so close to buying this game, but if there is almost no bust/boom for rookies i just don't see the point.

To bad....

[sachmo71]

There is no indication from the fix list that this was addressed. I've heard unfortunate reports that this may be true which would be a huge disappointment. I'm not far enough in my career to verify or disprove.





I can't find anything on this at the forum. Can anyone provide me a link to a thread on this?

[klayman]

I can't find anything on this at the forum. Can anyone provide me a link to a thread on this?
http://community.sigames.com/eve/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=21019056&f=6461934525&m=975204293

[sachmo71]

Thanks, Klayman.

I read through the thread, and after sifting thorough the arguments about why the NHL has so much less talent today, I can't find a definitive conclusion that this is in fact a bug.


This guys seems to have done the most pratical research, and here are his conclusions.



scrapped the 1.0.1 data after news of the 1.0.5 database updates surfaced. Conclusion were... lets just call them unfavourable.

1.0.3 Findings:

Current in-game year: 2055
Statistics based on draft years 2010-2030.
Maximum database selected.
Enhanced Leagues: Canada/NHL/Great Britain. All other leagues selected as Standard.
User manager was set to a team in Great Britian, so as to least impact NHL results.
I started gathering data as of 2010 draft to ensure that ALL draftees would be regens.

Keep in mind that 20years is not as broad an indication of engine tendencies as I'd like to come to any definite conclusions, but it should at least give us some indications.


1st overall selections: 17 forwards, 3 defencemen, 0 goalies.

Top 3 draft selections:
46 forwards, 14 defencemen, 1 goalie.

Average # of 1st round draft selections/yr that played a minimum of 200 career NHL games (600 player sample): 28.9

Minimum # of career NHL games played by a top 3 draft selection (60 player sample): 762 Games

Average number of 6'th round or later draft selections that layed a minimum of 200 career NHL games (2400 player sample): 2.6

Average player rating/statistical peak for top 2 draft selection (40 player sample): 22.2

Average age of significant sustained average player rating drop: 35.5

Early conclusion:

1st round picks almost always have a long productive career.

Top 3 draft selection busts do not happen at all.

Late round draft surprises are extremely rare.

Top draft picks seem to develop a bit too quickly, seeming to reach their statistical and viewable ratings peak at roughly 22yrs of age.




First, I'd like to see his number of career games for first round selections increased a bit. In the NHL, first round picks get a lot more leeway for improvement before a team will give up on them, and after that they usually are given a shot on a couple of more teams. At least that's how I see it, but I'd love to hear some opinions on that.

On his stat about the lowest number of career games played by a top 3 pick in his sample...that works out to about nine years. Is that too high? I'm not feeling like it is, but I'd have to look at some stats to be sure.

And 2.8 players per year drafted round 6 or later are playing over 200 games in the NHL. Here again, I'm not sure if that's too low or now. How many are there in the NHL each year that make it.

what I would really be interested in seeing is how the 2nd-5th rounders are doing, and obviously I need some of the hockey draft gurus to chime in on his findings. I could be totally off base on my expectations in regards to the real NHL.

[samifan24]

First, I'd like to see his number of career games for first round selections increased a bit. In the NHL, first round picks get a lot more leeway for improvement before a team will give up on them, and after that they usually are given a shot on a couple of more teams. At least that's how I see it, but I'd love to hear some opinions on that.


Well, this is interesting. I'm going to go through the #1 draft picks from 1990-2004 and say a bit about each. These are just my own opinions, feel free to disagree. Obviously the #1 overall pick is all about potential and the same thing goes for any first or even second round pick. While it's hard not to look back and rip one team's decision to pick so-and-so over a guy who was drafted later and became a star, I'm going to try and argue why/why not each #1 pick was/was not worthy of that label.

1990- Owen Nolan (Quebec)

I'd say that Nolan is now a superstar, but definately a star in this league. He's never scored more than 84 points in a season, but he does a lot of other things well. His point totals have decreased each of the last three seasons. Worthy of a #1 pick? Of course this will always be very debatable, but I'll say yes. (Not accounting for the eventual development of those drafted behind him, just on his own merits alone)

1991- Eric Lindros (Quebec)

Oh, Eric. Lindros has always had so much potential, but injuries have stunted a once-promising career. Lindros has scored 93 points or more just 3 times, and his point totals have decreased each of the last 3 years as well. Worthy of a #1 pick? Well, the #1 pick is about potential, and Eric's always had a lot of it. You never know what you're gonna get, it's a gamble. Eric Lindros is representative of the gamble associated with being a #1 overall draft pick...an enigmatic player who will always be graced with unbelievable potential.

1992- Roman Hamrlik (Tampa Bay)

Hamrlik was supposed to be a cornerstone for the Lightining franchise. He spent parts of 6 seasons with TB before moving on to Edmonton and now to the Islanders. When drafted, he was regarded as a purely offensive defensiveman, a true powerplay QB. Ok, so he can score some. Is he worthy of a #1 overall pick? Well that remains to be seen. I say no. While Hamrlik has averaged a point every other game throughout his career, today's NHL warrants a defenseman to have a strong allaround game and Hamrlik continues to struggle with the defensive side of things. While he has played for some very bad teams, his career +/- is -101. As an offensive defenseman, Hamrlik has scored more than 40 points in half of his 12 seasons? Is that production? Hard to say. Worthy of a #1 pick? No, but hindsight is always 20/20.

1993- Alexandre Daigle (Ottawa)

Alex, Alex, Alex. Widely regarded as the most disappointing #1 overall pick since 1990, Daigle struggled throughout his career to live up to the #1 overall label. While he's still just 29, he's already had some awful campaigns and spent an entire year in the AHL. Daigle's recent seasons seemed to indicate that his career had gone irrecoverable, but then he signed with Minnesota and everything changed. Daigle scored 20 goals for just the 3rd time in his career (and the first time since 96-97) and racked up 51 points in 78 games en route to his finest season since the aforementioned 96-97 campaign. Throughout his career, Daigle has struggled with the media spotlight. Perhaps he's finally turned a corner with Minnesota. I mentioned he's still only 29 and has a lot of hockey left in him. But worthy of a #1 pick? Alas, no.

1994- Ed Jovanovski (Florida)

I mentioned earlier that Owen Nolan possessed certain intangible leadership qualities. Ditto Jovanovski. Ed has spent time with two NHL franchise, Florida and now Vancouver, and he seems to have finally found a home in the Pacific Northwest. Jovocop is by no means an offensive defenseman, although three straight 40+ point campaigns may indicate that he's become more incorporated in the Canucks' offense. No, Jovo's calling card has always been tough, rugged defensive and a tenacious leader. Think of a younger Scott Stevens. Jovo is a guy that any GM would love to have on his team. Numbers aren't everything, it's true, and I'm willing to bet that the Panthers are kicking themselves now. Jovo is worthy of a #1, and it's a trade many GMs wish they made.

1995- Bryan Berard (Ottawa)

Bryan said he wouldn't play for Ottawa and he was right. He was traded for #2 overall pick Wade Redden on draft day in a huge deal. It's tough to look at Berard without looking at Redden, but I'll try to do my best. Berard has struggled through his eye incident and has made it all the way back to the NHL and is now toiling for the Blackhawks, not the most career-developing stop in the league. That aside, Berard has been an overall disappointment in the Roman Hamrlik vein, and it's no surprise that both players were billed as pure offensive defensemen. Berard has struggled to really take off in his career, and he's just 27, but staying in Chicago isn't going to help him. Worthy of a #1 pick? No, but he's still young.

1996- Chris Phillips (Ottawa)

Chris Phillips is a stay-at-home defensemen and is most similar to Ed Jovanovski among previous #1 picks, although he is not as aggressive as his Canuck counterpart. Phillips is a great story: as a junior he stayed at home and took care of his ill parents and showed impeccable maturity for a man not yet old enough to buy a drink. His career has been slow but he's undoubtably a leader for the Sens' defense corps. Phillips is a good, solid defenseman, but not worthy of a #1 pick. That said, if #1 picks were made for being a good human being, Phillips would definately have my vote.

1997- Joe Thornton (Boston)

The Boston media decided that Super Joe was a bust after his first two seasons in Beantown after he scored a combined 48 points in 136 games. They were wrong. Thornton is now one of the most powerful centermen in the NHL today, as his recent performances show. Thornton has 242 points in 220 games in the last three years. Whilst wearing the C in Boston, he is the heart and soul of the Boston Bruins and has helped shape them into a perennial contender in the East. Thornton is just 25, but he's already been well worth a #1 overall selection.

1998- Vincent Lecavalier (Tampa Bay)

Vinny Lecav was in the same boat in Tampa that Joe Thornton found himself in in Boston: the "bust" boat. Vinny scored just 28 points in his first NHL season and critics bemoaned that their uber-prospect was a complete bust. Well, players develop, and Lecavalier has done so remarkably well. His last two seasons are of particular interest, as the Lightning have gotten better, so too has Lecavalier. He is still growing, but the Tampa Bay brass are sure glad they took Lecavalier now that he's helped them hoist Lord Stanley's Cup.

1999- Patrik Stefan (ATL)

Stefan finally played a full season last year after shuttling from Atlanta to AHL Chicago and back again. Stefan has seemed a disappointment in Atlanta, but he's still hanging around because of his potential. There have also been rumors that his work ethic is lacking, but Atlanta's brass has been patient with their former #1 pick. It's too early in Stefan's career to make an overall assessment about his worthiness as a #1 pick.

2000- Rick DiPietro (NYI)

DiPietro played in 51 games last season after playing a combined 30 in the previous two years. DiPietro was impressive last season with 23 wins and a 2.36 GAA, but it's still too early to say anything decisive about DiPietro's career.

2001- Ilya Kovalchuk (ATL)

Ilya is one of the top 3 players in the NHL. He's just 21 and he has 198 goals in 227 career games. He's worthy of a #1 overall pick already. The hype machine was right about Kovalchuk: he's just that good. He'll be an All-Star for years.


2002- Rick Nash (CBL)

Rick Nash is one of the most explosive young players in today's NHL. He's been the cornerstone of a very young and inexperienced Columbus franchise, but he tied for the Rocket Richard trophy last season after leading the league with 41 goals at age 19. He's scary good.

2003- Marc-Andre Fleury (PIT)

Fleury was impressive in a brief stint in the Steel City before he was sent back to Juniors to avoid triggering contract clauses. It's too early to comment on his career path.

2004- Alexander Ovechkin (WSH)

Hockey fans have been hearing about Ovechkin since he was 16. He's got a lot of work ahead of him in Washington.

2005- Sidney Crosby (???)

Wayne Gretzky was asked if anyone would ever break his NHL records. His response? "Yes, Sidney Crosby. He's the best player I've seen since Mario (Lemieux)." Oh, and Sidney has his own website (http://www.sidneycrosbyauthentic.com/).



I'm not sure if this is the sort of response you were looking for, but I thought I'd throw it out there anyway.

[Tekneek]

Another thing about Chris Phillips. Unlike other guys picked so high, arrogance was never an issue. When Jacques Martin asked him to play out of position, he simply went and did it. The guy has always done whatever was asked of him, willingly, even though it probably set back his development as a blueliner. For that, I give him a ton of credit and put him above most of the other players mentioned in that list.

He quietly goes to work and does what his boss asks him to. What more could a team ask of a player? He still has potential to fill and should have a long career.

It's not hard to find major busts in the first round of the NHL draft, though. Take a look at guys like Keith Osborne, Nick Stajduhar, Jason Bonsignore, Bryan Fogarty, and Terry Ryan... Those guys are just the first ones that come to mind...

[samifan24]

It's not hard to find major busts in the first round of the NHL draft, though. Take a look at guys like Keith Osborne, Nick Stajduhar, Jason Bonsignore, Bryan Fogarty, and Terry Ryan... Those guys are just the first ones that come to mind...

Oh sure, I agree with you 100%. Those guys were all major busts, but for the sake of time constraints I thought I'd just review the #1 (and most visible) pick in each draft.

As for Phillips, I agree with you as well. He has those intangible leadership, lunchpail type guys that coaches long for. I don't think his talent level is that of a #1 pick, but he's definately a rock-solid part of the Ottawa Senators and every coach in the league would certainly love to have him on their roster.

[Johnny93g]

Definatly not hard to find 1st round Busts
1989- Steve Bancroft
1992- Brandon Convery
1993- Landon Wilson
1994- Eric Fichaud
1999- Luca Cereda

Just one teams pain :(

BTW, I think Berard was a developing superstar before the eye injury.....He was very worthy of the #1 pick....No question.....Another reason to hate Ottawa

[samifan24]

BTW, I think Berard was a developing superstar before the eye injury.....He was very worthy of the #1 pick....No question.....Another reason to hate Ottawa

Well he certainly had the potential, but so did everyone else. There's no question the eye injury took its toll on his career, but I still don't see him as being worthy of the #1 overall pick. First rounder? Sure, but not #1 overall.

[Tekneek]

Another reason to hate Ottawa

Hah. He would have likely had one more season of professional hockey if he had been willing to sign for them. He put in motion the circumstances that had him playing AGAINST the Senators and Hossa that night.

I also fault Berard for not signing with the Leafs simply out of loyalty when he came back. They, without question, paid out of their own checkbook for Berard's family to come see him and other related expenses after his injury. He thanked them by turning up his nose at their offer and signing for the highest bidder. That's his right, but it reveals a glaring defect (IMHO) in his character.

[sachmo71]

Definatly not hard to find 1st round Busts
1989- Steve Bancroft
1992- Brandon Convery
1993- Landon Wilson
1994- Eric Fichaud
1999- Luca Cereda

Just one teams pain :(

BTW, I think Berard was a developing superstar before the eye injury.....He was very worthy of the #1 pick....No question.....Another reason to hate Ottawa


But would 29 out of 32 first rounders playing for 9 years in the NHL be considered a bug? Is it realistic? My gut says yes, but I defer to the stat nuts. That means you, Johnny! :D

[samifan24]

But would 29 out of 32 first rounders playing for 9 years in the NHL be considered a bug? Is it realistic? My gut says yes, but I defer to the stat nuts. That means you, Johnny! :D

I would say yes, it's realistic, but the greater question is what sort of stats are they putting up during those 9 years? As we all know, 1st rounders don't always live up to their potential, but if those 29 guys are notching 60+ points a season for 9 years, then maybe something's wrong.

[Tekneek]

I would say yes, it's realistic, but the greater question is what sort of stats are they putting up during those 9 years? As we all know, 1st rounders don't always live up to their potential, but if those 29 guys are notching 60+ points a season for 9 years, then maybe something's wrong.

This is where you get to the heart of the matter. It's not, in itself, bad for those guys to have 9 seasons in the NHL. It's bad if they are all top scoring guys since first rounders end up filling every possible role, including even a few goonish roles from time to time.

[samifan24]

This is where you get to the heart of the matter. It's not, in itself, bad for those guys to have 9 seasons in the NHL. It's bad if they are all top scoring guys since first rounders end up filling every possible role, including even a few goonish roles from time to time.

Exactly. What fun is it to draft if every single first rounder you have turns out exactly the way you hoped? (Shades of FOF anyone?)

[Johnny93g]

Maybe you should look at it this way....Is 29 players in a draft playing that long realistic....Maybe the AI for the teams is so good, their not making mistakes scouting and drafting the players.....Not everyone the CPU drafts in the 1st round is rated to go in the 1st round....MAybe the talent isnt the problem, maybe the AI is too smart.....

[klayman]

But would 29 out of 32 first rounders playing for 9 years in the NHL be considered a bug? Is it realistic? My gut says yes, but I defer to the stat nuts. That means you, Johnny! :D
Well, lets look.

1984 Draft (Pos-Player-GP)
1-Mario Lemieux - 889
2-Kirk Muller - 1349
3-Ed Olczyk - 1031
4-Al Iafrate - 799
5-Petr Svoboda - 1028
6-Craig Redmond - 191
7-Shawn Burr - 878
8-Shayne Corson - 1156
9-Doug Bodger - 1071
10-JJ Daigneault - 899
11-Slyvain Cote - 1171
12-Gary Roberts - 1030
13-David Quinn - 0
14-Terry Carkner - 858
15-Trevor Stienburg - 71
16-Roger Belanger - 44
17-Kevin Hatcher -1157
18-Mikael Andersson -761
19-Dave Pasin -76
20-Duncan MacPherson -0
21-Selmar Odelein -18

6 of 21 that didn't make 200 games in the NHL, and 1 that was forced out early from injuries.

Simliarly, 1985 has 8 of 21 1st rounders that didn't play more than 200 games and 1986 has 9 of 21.

Using just those 3 years with almost 20 years of history after the fact, it would certainly seem that a first rounder has a higher life span in the game than in real life (according to the stats compilied).

[klayman]

I do have a problem with his claim that no top 3 picks were busts in the game. Going back 20 years, I see maybe one player that was a top 3 bust (didn't play more than 500 games in the NHL) up to the 1987 draft. Lawton played 485, Kluzak had 500 operations on his knee, even Wickenheiser played over 500 games, so I don't see where this need to have top 3 picks end up busting comes from.

[sachmo71]

We need more data! :D

[klayman]

We need more data! :D
http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/draft/index.html

Here's all the data you'll need :D

[samifan24]

I do have a problem with his claim that no top 3 picks were busts in the game. Going back 20 years, I see maybe one player that was a top 3 bust (didn't play more than 500 games in the NHL) up to the 1987 draft. Lawton played 485, Kluzak had 500 operations on his knee, even Wickenheiser played over 500 games, so I don't see where this need to have top 3 picks end up busting comes from.

Here's my beef with the game as presented here: too many of the 1st rounders are too successful and for too long. Would you agree with this assessment?

[Havok]

i just can't believe they released the 'Final Patch' without addressing this.

[klayman]

Here's my beef with the game as presented here: too many of the 1st rounders are too successful and for too long. Would you agree with this assessment?
Yes, I'd agree. I'd like to see a lot more uncertainty in the low first round picks not panning out. But I think the top 3 is modeled correctly.

[Marc Vaughan]

I can't remember who - but someone was asking about data updates, I've noticed that TBL is carryin a couple now -

http://www.ehmtheblueline.com/downloads/pafiledb.php?action=category&id=14

No idea of the standard of them, but they might be worth a whirl ...

[samifan24]

I can't remember who - but someone was asking about data updates, I've noticed that TBL is carryin a couple now -

http://www.ehmtheblueline.com/downloads/pafiledb.php?action=category&id=14

No idea of the standard of them, but they might be worth a whirl ...

That was me, Marc. Thanks, I just wanted to see if it were an option if I decided to purchase the game.

[JonInMiddleGA]

i just can't believe they released the 'Final Patch' without addressing this.

Sad to say but ... I can believe it.

EHM has been nothing but disappointing to me from the demo to the dynasties I've read to the bug reports I've read/am still seing.

I believe the concerns about adapting a game for a different sport that were expressed at least occasionally when this plan was first announced have been proven well-founded.

[Tekneek]

Not sure if this is the best place to tag this, but we received our Fall 2004 NHL Catalog and NHL Eastside Hockey Manager was listed in it. The price was $49.99 US.

[Blade6119]

Maybe you should look at it this way....Is 29 players in a draft playing that long realistic....Maybe the AI for the teams is so good, their not making mistakes scouting and drafting the players.....Not everyone the CPU drafts in the 1st round is rated to go in the 1st round....MAybe the talent isnt the problem, maybe the AI is too smart.....


BRAVO, BEST COMMENT ALL THREAD...hands down

[chrisj]

i just can't believe they released the 'Final Patch' without addressing this.

Who, from SI, said it was the final patch? I can't seem to find anything suggesting that...

[Hurst2112]

Who, from SI, said it was the final patch? I can't seem to find anything suggesting that...

Looklon SI's front page...the box that says latest download.

Right below the link and the date, it says:

"Final patch for NHL EHM"

[riz]

The bust issue was worked upon while doing the patches. I was handling many different areas of the game during this time and it may well be that I left it off the change list at the point when I worked it. There are busts in the game and it has been coded in that some player just cannot handle the big league and do not live up to their potential. I've witnessed this with the soak tests we ran after the potential busts were tweaked. First rounders in the game are definately not all going to turn out just as you'd expect.

What I have been digging into lately is the scouting system, and what I've come up with is that the scouts are being too precise with their opinions in most cases. This is a thing that we are going to work on for the next version, since it will mean some big time overhaul of the scouting system to bring in more uncertainty to scouting young players. The problem is that some people are saying "I've signed the best scouts, so they should know 100% how a player turns out" but that just doesn't work out in the big picture. We are working on new expanded scouting reports, that will give more information about the players, but I'm also trying to make sure that there will be more uncertainty when scouting young players. A lot of players are overhyped when they are drafted and this is an area that will also be looked at when gearing towards the next version of the game.

[sachmo71]

The bust issue was worked upon while doing the patches. I was handling many different areas of the game during this time and it may well be that I left it off the change list at the point when I worked it. There are busts in the game and it has been coded in that some player just cannot handle the big league and do not live up to their potential. I've witnessed this with the soak tests we ran after the potential busts were tweaked. First rounders in the game are definately not all going to turn out just as you'd expect.

What I have been digging into lately is the scouting system, and what I've come up with is that the scouts are being too precise with their opinions in most cases. This is a thing that we are going to work on for the next version, since it will mean some big time overhaul of the scouting system to bring in more uncertainty to scouting young players. The problem is that some people are saying "I've signed the best scouts, so they should know 100% how a player turns out" but that just doesn't work out in the big picture. We are working on new expanded scouting reports, that will give more information about the players, but I'm also trying to make sure that there will be more uncertainty when scouting young players. A lot of players are overhyped when they are drafted and this is an area that will also be looked at when gearing towards the next version of the game.

Great to know, Riz!

Just to clarify, the latest patch is the final patch for this version of EHM?

[riz]

The latest patch is the last patch for the first version of the game unless something earthshaking comes up. We need to gear ourselves towards the next version to get up to speed on improving the things that cannot be tweaked in patches and especially coding in the features we missed out on the first time. Now that we have a functioning foundation, we can really start on the specialized features people come up with on the boards.

[samifan24]

The bust issue was worked upon while doing the patches. I was handling many different areas of the game during this time and it may well be that I left it off the change list at the point when I worked it. There are busts in the game and it has been coded in that some player just cannot handle the big league and do not live up to their potential. I've witnessed this with the soak tests we ran after the potential busts were tweaked. First rounders in the game are definately not all going to turn out just as you'd expect.

What I have been digging into lately is the scouting system, and what I've come up with is that the scouts are being too precise with their opinions in most cases. This is a thing that we are going to work on for the next version, since it will mean some big time overhaul of the scouting system to bring in more uncertainty to scouting young players. The problem is that some people are saying "I've signed the best scouts, so they should know 100% how a player turns out" but that just doesn't work out in the big picture. We are working on new expanded scouting reports, that will give more information about the players, but I'm also trying to make sure that there will be more uncertainty when scouting young players. A lot of players are overhyped when they are drafted and this is an area that will also be looked at when gearing towards the next version of the game.

Thanks, Riz. It's great to know that our observations are being taken into account. We all look forward to the next version and all that will come with it.

[Havok]

The bust issue was worked upon while doing the patches. I was handling many different areas of the game during this time and it may well be that I left it off the change list at the point when I worked it. There are busts in the game and it has been coded in that some player just cannot handle the big league and do not live up to their potential. I've witnessed this with the soak tests we ran after the potential busts were tweaked. First rounders in the game are definately not all going to turn out just as you'd expect.

What I have been digging into lately is the scouting system, and what I've come up with is that the scouts are being too precise with their opinions in most cases. This is a thing that we are going to work on for the next version, since it will mean some big time overhaul of the scouting system to bring in more uncertainty to scouting young players. The problem is that some people are saying "I've signed the best scouts, so they should know 100% how a player turns out" but that just doesn't work out in the big picture. We are working on new expanded scouting reports, that will give more information about the players, but I'm also trying to make sure that there will be more uncertainty when scouting young players. A lot of players are overhyped when they are drafted and this is an area that will also be looked at when gearing towards the next version of the game.


Thanks for the response Riz... maybe i will pick up the game now! :)

[Kevin]

Now, if they would just release it in North America

[samifan24]

Now, if they would just release it in North America

You do know that the game is available via download at the SI Games website, right?

[sachmo71]

You do know that the game is available via download at the SI Games website, right?

Maybe he doesn't have a credit card.

(I thought the same thing! :D)

[SirFozzie]

any word if the softwrap patch is out (can't check, at work)

[Blackadar]

You do know that the game is available via download at the SI Games website, right?

I won't even consider it unless I can get the hard-copy version and I don't feel like paying in English pounds and international shipping. He may feel the same way.

[riz]

The game should be out in North America shortly. It should have been out some time ago already, but the things seem to take their time on these things. Judging by the feedback we have had on the softwrap issues, it may be worth to wait the few weeks to get a physical copy of the game rather than buy the download version.

Now I'll get back to the new scouting systems (next version) and my dreams of a 2D engine (somewhere in the future). Guess if the World Cup has made it any easier for me not to plan it all in my head 24/7..... :)

[Hurst2112]

Judging by the feedback we have had on the softwrap issues, it may be worth to wait the few weeks to get a physical copy of the game rather than buy the download version.


Boy, hearing that from the creator of the game really makes me question if I did the right thing by buying the D/L version. :rolleyes: ;)

[Tekneek]

Now, if they would just release it in North America

If you're willing to mail order it, did you mean to overlook my post saying that it is being sold in the latest NHL Catalog?

[scooter]

GoGamer.com also has it. Theirs is $44.90. It is the import version but it is sent from the US (California I think). Much cheaper than importing it from England (what I did). I have ordered from GoGamer in the past and have been very happy with their service.

[Karim]

The bust issue was worked upon while doing the patches. I was handling many different areas of the game during this time and it may well be that I left it off the change list at the point when I worked it. There are busts in the game and it has been coded in that some player just cannot handle the big league and do not live up to their potential. I've witnessed this with the soak tests we ran after the potential busts were tweaked. First rounders in the game are definately not all going to turn out just as you'd expect.
Great news! Thanks, Riz.

[Tekneek]

GoGamer.com also has it. Theirs is $44.90. It is the import version but it is sent from the US (California I think). Much cheaper than importing it from England (what I did). I have ordered from GoGamer in the past and have been very happy with their service.

I ordered CM4 through them and the service was spectacular. A friend of mine says he ordered EHM through them...but doesn't seem to like the game, so I might actually relieve him of the burden of ownership soon...

[DaddyTorgo]

*ping* any word on the softwrap patch MV or riz? And Riz, I'm not quite sure what you're referring to in terms of problems with softwrap. Am I missing a big uproar over at the SI boards (I tend to check over there very infrequently now, because at least the soccer forums were too euro-centric, i should make a hobby of checking the EHM forum though I guess).

[Marc Vaughan]

*ping* any word on the softwrap patch MV or riz? And Riz, I'm not quite sure what you're referring to in terms of problems with softwrap. Am I missing a big uproar over at the SI boards (I tend to check over there very infrequently now, because at least the soccer forums were too euro-centric, i should make a hobby of checking the EHM forum though I guess).
Will check out whats happening today (to be honest I'm submerged in FM at the moment and had expected the patch to have surfaced by now).

[Kevin]

I am aware of the download version, but was also wary of some of the softwrap problems. Had they used Viatech, I would have ordered by now. I know I could order by mail, but that ain't gonna happen while Canada Customs is working to rule. I prefer to wait until it hits local stores, because it is usually the least expensive way to get software.

[DaddyTorgo]

Will check out whats happening today (to be honest I'm submerged in FM at the moment and had expected the patch to have surfaced by now).
Marc what have I told you about pulling yourself away from FM??? DON'T!!!! I want you buried in FM up to your ears until you can't stand it anymore so it's the best possible game ever. Aren't there others at SI who could check on the softwrap-patch? Or we could just wait paitently. I'd rather you didn't stop looking at and making FM better until your eyes were bleeding from staring at the screen too much! :D

[scooter]

Softwrap patch is up at SI Games:

http://www.sigames.com/downloads.php?type=view&id=226

[DaddyTorgo]

sweet. thanks scooter. can't DL till I get home tonight, but I fully plan on continuing my dominance. Maybe I should post my EHM Dynasty over here...*ponders*. Any interest by anyone in reading about how my Bruins are a complete 180 degree turn from the Causeway St. Bruins of today?

[Kevin]

I always enjoy reading about the dominating Bruins losing to the Habs in the opening round.

((ducks and runs for cover))

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

[condors]

good news now i can redownload and fire up a new game

[SirFozzie]

I always enjoy reading about the dominating Bruins losing to the Habs in the opening round.

((ducks and runs for cover))

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

I KEEL YOU NOW!

David (Long suffering Bruins Fan) Yellope

[Galaril]

I remember hearing/reading that HR would be releasing a new edition of his venerable (IMHO) game FBB and a major tweak to the FBCB game.Anyone out there got anymore information?I am looking for a sports game fix to hold me over until the Total War Rome is out.I was gonna pick up Madden's 2005 PC version but will be smart this year after being burned the last two or three three years by EA Sports.I was hoping for FOF 2006 or TCY 2 but I am not getting asny positive fibes and have frankly gotten kind of annoyed and tired of waiting to here what the next game will be so will look elsewhere for entertainment.No insult to Jim meant.

[samifan24]

Does anyone know how I can change the AHL teams to their correct names? I know it's a code "IDONTKNOW" but I don't know how to input it or where to input it. :D

[sovereignstar]

I remember hearing/reading that HR would be releasing a new edition of his venerable (IMHO) game FBB and a major tweak to the FBCB game.Anyone out there got anymore information?I am looking for a sports game fix to hold me over until the Total War Rome is out.I was gonna pick up Madden's 2005 PC version but will be smart this year after being burned the last two or three three years by EA Sports.I was hoping for FOF 2006 or TCY 2 but I am not getting asny positive fibes and have frankly gotten kind of annoyed and tired of waiting to here what the next game will be so will look elsewhere for entertainment.No insult to Jim meant.

No problem in this thread.
:rolleyes: