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.
I have to disagree with that opinion. If EA has a direct licensing agreement with NHL and NHLPA, then they logically also have the rights to player profile pictures. If not, then someone seriously mishandled that contract.
Adding just a few profile pictures would already solve most of the complaints. It’s frustrating to see that even players who do have pictures often only have ones from their previous teams.
Downloading pictures from NHL.com shouldn’t be a problem, even if it’s done by a single person. I do similar work myself as a content manager and I can confirm it’s straightforward.
To back this up:
1. NHL.com provides a publicly accessible player database with profile pictures that is used for the website, apps, and often for licensing.
2. EA has historically used these photos in its NHL games, so access clearly exists.
3. Technically, it’s very simple to download the pictures via the API or directly from the website – no massive team required. So this argument about “licensing limitations” doesn’t really hold up.
4. In fact, they already use up-to-date rookie photos in Ultimate Team when players have unique cards, so access clearly exists.
Honestly, I’m getting really tired of this. I’d even be willing to pay an extra $60 if they just updated all the missing profile pictures and added current gear.
They could sell it as DLC, like Forza does with cars – here we could get custom goalie gear (Shesterkin, Ulmark, UPL), masks, etc.
All of this would also make a proper PC release more viable, which is something I’m still hoping to see in my lifetime.
100% agree with all !!!
To add to the point of nhl player photos. Card companies such as Upper Deck. Also have contracts with the NHLPA. Have you ever seen a player card without a pic in any of their cards? And they delve into all players related to the NHL. Whether its a seasoned Pro or draft pick. Its why it is peculiar that EA at times has faceless cards. Who is actually at fault here.
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