Wishlist, or is it a Goalie Physics Suggestion??

[Soulja]

So I'm thinking here, my main concern is the goalie AI or physics or whatever you want to call it. A long time ago I suggested a "rag doll" model for the players, something that would make the movements, checks, fights, etc all look more realistic. Do I know the technology? No. However, it would seem quite plausible to have a physics system close to that of the FPS games where a guy getting hit with a grenade gets blown backward AND apart using only the physics engine, not pre-set animations. Why not do the same with hockey players?

IDEA: Goalies programed to stop the puck. The basic physics is a "magnetic" puck. As the puck approaches the goalie, the goalie reacts. Program the reactions based on the location of the puck. If it is a shot, low to the ice to the goalies' right side, the right leg gravitates in the direction of the puck, and the arm follows. The same for a high shot on the left side. The arm raises up to track the movement of the puck. Since it is a high shot, the leg knows to stay put rather than kicking out. The puck tracking and reaction would be controlled by ability settings, similar to those that are already in place. A better goalie tracks the puck better, etc.

The same physics could even be implemented with the other 5 players. Forwards blocking shots from the point could kick out a leg in the direction of the puck. Realistic poke checks could be used when the defense is near the puck handler. When a pass is made across the ice, nearby defenders would react to the puck movement by putting their sticks in the passing lanes. More aggressive defenders would be more likely to stretch their stick further into the lanes and be more likely to break up the pass. Shooters reacting to one timer opportunities would be more likely to complete, NOTE I SAID COMPLETE, a one timer. (rather than attempt which is the variable now) This would lead to fewer real scoring opportunities and a more realistic gameplay.

There are hundreds of opportunities with a new game engine that would focus the gameplay on the puck. If the AI was tracking the puck movement, with preset variables and rules for positioning and individual plays and defensive/offensive formations, the game would look and act more real.

Oh, and the checking. Wow, can you imagine a Plager Brothers hip check with rag doll physics? Christ I'm getting excited just thinking about it.

C'mon EA. Put it to thought, get the experts on it, and make it happen. Great hockey simulation is within reach, let's make it work!