I should have clarified. We can use the images that were provided before previous seasons. They're sent to us before the game launches. After that, we have to wait until next year's batch to be sent out.
Anything artwork-related could be different though. Headshot pics would be property of the photographer so it would depend on the language of their agreement. Just because NHL.com can use them doesn't automatically mean EA could also. Same would be true for goal songs (property of the band), goalie masks (the artist who designed/painted it), anything like that. I wish they could find a way around it. The blank silouettes ruin the look of basically every menu after a few years of Franchise mode. I'm holding out hope they someday replace them with the digital faces at least. Anything is better than nothing.
If Ea cant use them having an exclusive contract with both the NHL and NHLPA, It would be a counter intuitive contract that allowed only certain individuals. Makes no sense in not opening all player pics to be used in this game. I believe the reason is. The franchise hasnt included the pic because they dont have one, or are just reluctant to do so. The only other reason would be. The player has requested hisvpic not to be used. But that is highly unlikely.
I don't think EA has an exclusive contract. I've read that on here a few times.
The licensing reason makes a lot of sense. As many people have pointed out, it WOULD be very easy to add these pics and EA knows that we all complain about it so why wouldn't they do it unless they literally (and legally) couldn't. I hate it too but this is just the reality for now.
Go on the web and type in Does EA have a contract with the NHLPA, regarding player photos. And read what it says.
I'm sure they have a contract or they wouldn't have any photos at all. I don't think they have an 'exclusive' contract like you mentioned above. I've read that on the forums several times.
I'm not sure why all the player's photos aren't included but it would be so easy to fix there must be a reason they simply can't do it. Going off what some of the admins have said, it sounds like they make a one-time purchase of X number of photos at a certain point in the off-season and that's it for the year.
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