Video: NBA Live 08 revitalized with Go-To System

The long-running NBA Live franchise is a grizzled veteran that has seen many a challenger try to knock it off its pedestal throughout the years and console generations. Like many NBA superstars, however, Live too must age and it’s been showing signs of that in recent seasons.

EA Canada, however, intends to rejuvenate this baller and is pulling out all the stops to do just that with NBA Live 08. With the introduction of the Go-To Basketball system, the dev team is proving that this game generation is as much about gameplay as it is about graphics.

Go-to Basketball is essentially a new gameplay scheme that seeks to add depth and realism to the franchise. Unlike the Signature Moves scheme of the past iterations, the Go-to System doesn’t give players an “I Win” button that they can use to cherry-pick their way to the finals. Watch the vid to know what we mean:

See more details on Live 08 after the jump!

The long-running NBA Live franchise is a grizzled veteran that has seen many a challenger try to knock it off its pedestal throughout the years and console generations. Like many NBA superstars, however, Live too must age and it’s been showing signs of that in recent seasons.

EA Canada, however, intends to rejuvenate this baller and is pulling out all the stops to do just that with NBA Live 08. With the introduction of the Go-To Basketball system, the dev team is proving that this game generation is as much about gameplay as it is about graphics.

Go-to Basketball is essentially a new gameplay scheme that seeks to add depth and realism to the franchise. Unlike the Signature Moves scheme of the past iterations, the Go-to System doesn’t give players an “I Win” button that they can use to cherry-pick their way to the finals. Watch the vid to know what we mean:

To break it down in the briefest manner possible, these are the four main increments of the system:

1. Signature Go-To moves- As mentioned, there’s no superstar move button now. Everything’s dependent on what the concerned player is known for in real life. The way he shoots, the type of shot he takes in a given situation and the accuracy thereof are all factored in.
2. Quick Strike handles- Ball-handling fanatics who love nothing more than to break ankles with killer cross-overs and shaky-bakes will learn that freestyle moves have been replaced with a deeper handling system that can be defended with equally deep counter controls.
3. Own the Paint- Playing in the shaded area is a tough way to earn a living. Whether your Go-To guy is Yao Ming, Amare Stoudamire or Dwight Howard, you gotta learn whether using finesse moves like hook shots and leaners are more suited for the situation than brute slam dunks. Again, all is dependent on the type of player you use.
4. Hot Zones- It’s not enough that you have a good shooting rating from a given distance. It’s the part of the court that counts. Shooting at the top of the key is different from doing it at the wings and elbows. Get to know your star and know just where to position him for best results.