So there were two tweaks to AI in the 1.4.0 patch. The check/shove decision making change I think is working fine. However, the one regarding "Improved AI decision-making when covering the puck carrier or transitioning up the ice, reducing instances of gliding instead of giving effort." I think has had adverse/unintended effects.
Difficult to pinpoint but it seems like I'm seeing the "hustle" animation way more often than usual and the CPU is having difficulty slowing down enough in the zone on offense to properly cycle the puck and do other plays. Off the rush is working great, but beyond that they're too frantic. The powerplay is a good example, since the patch I have not seen the CPU able to set up and cycle the puck for a proper goal. They're just moving too fast, putting themselves in a bad position or facing the wrong direction, instead of gliding into a better position facing the net. At least, when I look at gameplay from October compared to now, that is what it feels like to me. There was more gliding, trailing, slower/subtle plays being made, more congestion in the neutral zone. Now it seems like excessive hustling or full speed skating, and lots of throwing the puck to models who receive it behind them and are out of position.
Obviously the change shouldn't have affected all that, but it's undeniable that something is off since 1.4.0.
Community ManagerWould you be able to get some video of this? I'll pass it on to the team for review. If you can, publish it through your console or put it up on YouTube so it can be streamed. Thanks!
