Hey guys. I am working on a new cricket management game, and would like some suggestions. Although my game won't have 3D graphics, I plan to simulate the action similarly (bowler runs up, picks line/length, batsmen tries a specific shot etc). What are some good features to model? Here is what I've come up with.
BATTING
1)Technique - Defense, footwork, plays straight. The ability to stay at the wicket and play proper cricket shots.
2) Strokeplay - Range and execution of shots. Eg. Sehwag would have a high strokeplay rating, but a lower one for technique.
3) Front foot shots - Skill and range of front foot shots.
4) Back foot shots - Skill and range of back foot shots.
Eg, Sobers was brilliant at driving on the back foot, so he has a wider range of back foot shots than someone who only pulls and cuts. Skill is the ability to execute an attempted shot.
5) Skill vs Pace - Skill against fast or medium fast bowlers. I'm not sure whether this should also include skill vs the swinging ball, or seam movement.
6) Skill vs Spin - Skill against any slow/spin bowler. Includes footwork, and skill on turning pitches.
7) Concentration - This could mean many things. For example, batsmen doesn't give his wicket away after getting set. Or ability to handle pressure situations.
BOWLING
1) Pace - How fast they can bowl.
2) Movement/variation - Swing and seam movement for pace bowlers. Turn, flight, and variation (ability to mix up deliveries) for spinners. Perhaps this should be broken into 2 categories for pace and spinners?
3) Accuracy - Ability to hit desired line and length.
4) Stamina/fitness - Higher stamina means both ability to bowl longer spells and maintain level of quality throughout the spell and day. Perhaps also determines how injury prone a player is.
5) Toughness - Mental toughness and doesn't get discouraged when getting smashed (McGrath excellent, James Hopes poor
). Also physical intimidation factor.
FIELDING
1) Close Catching - Slips/gully fielding.
2) Far Catching - Maybe unnecessary. Outfield and far infield (eg covers) catching skill.
3) Ground Fielding - Saves runs. Throwing accuracy and strength.
4) Keeper Catching - Catching ability
5) Keeper Glovework - Stumpings, stopping byes, standing up to the stumps.
GENERAL
This is where I think there is great chance for improvement in a management game. Here are some random ideas. I want to really increase the realism and fun factor.
1) Mental toughness/psychology - Sports psychologist sessions, experience, and good form can contribute to a tougher player who can get through trying situations (eg Steve Waugh very high). Although some players are born with a better head on their shoulders.
2) Work ethic/dedication - Eg. Hayden would score very high. Training will be more effective on players with good practice habits and dedication (you have to want it!).
3) Leadership - Some of it is natural, but can be developed with experience and age. Not just on field leadership, but in the dressing room and nets. A good leader can boost the performance of teammates.
4) Potential - Like the regenerated players in the ICC series. A rough guess to a player's final ability. Work ethic, proper training/coaching, and luck will contribute to a player reaching his full potential.
5) Fitness - How likely to get injured and stamina. Training can help, but some players are naturally fitter.
Thanks for reading. Suggestions are appreciated.
BATTING
1)Technique - Defense, footwork, plays straight. The ability to stay at the wicket and play proper cricket shots.
2) Strokeplay - Range and execution of shots. Eg. Sehwag would have a high strokeplay rating, but a lower one for technique.
3) Front foot shots - Skill and range of front foot shots.
4) Back foot shots - Skill and range of back foot shots.
Eg, Sobers was brilliant at driving on the back foot, so he has a wider range of back foot shots than someone who only pulls and cuts. Skill is the ability to execute an attempted shot.
5) Skill vs Pace - Skill against fast or medium fast bowlers. I'm not sure whether this should also include skill vs the swinging ball, or seam movement.
6) Skill vs Spin - Skill against any slow/spin bowler. Includes footwork, and skill on turning pitches.
7) Concentration - This could mean many things. For example, batsmen doesn't give his wicket away after getting set. Or ability to handle pressure situations.
BOWLING
1) Pace - How fast they can bowl.
2) Movement/variation - Swing and seam movement for pace bowlers. Turn, flight, and variation (ability to mix up deliveries) for spinners. Perhaps this should be broken into 2 categories for pace and spinners?
3) Accuracy - Ability to hit desired line and length.
4) Stamina/fitness - Higher stamina means both ability to bowl longer spells and maintain level of quality throughout the spell and day. Perhaps also determines how injury prone a player is.
5) Toughness - Mental toughness and doesn't get discouraged when getting smashed (McGrath excellent, James Hopes poor

FIELDING
1) Close Catching - Slips/gully fielding.
2) Far Catching - Maybe unnecessary. Outfield and far infield (eg covers) catching skill.
3) Ground Fielding - Saves runs. Throwing accuracy and strength.
4) Keeper Catching - Catching ability
5) Keeper Glovework - Stumpings, stopping byes, standing up to the stumps.
GENERAL
This is where I think there is great chance for improvement in a management game. Here are some random ideas. I want to really increase the realism and fun factor.
1) Mental toughness/psychology - Sports psychologist sessions, experience, and good form can contribute to a tougher player who can get through trying situations (eg Steve Waugh very high). Although some players are born with a better head on their shoulders.
2) Work ethic/dedication - Eg. Hayden would score very high. Training will be more effective on players with good practice habits and dedication (you have to want it!).
3) Leadership - Some of it is natural, but can be developed with experience and age. Not just on field leadership, but in the dressing room and nets. A good leader can boost the performance of teammates.
4) Potential - Like the regenerated players in the ICC series. A rough guess to a player's final ability. Work ethic, proper training/coaching, and luck will contribute to a player reaching his full potential.
5) Fitness - How likely to get injured and stamina. Training can help, but some players are naturally fitter.
Thanks for reading. Suggestions are appreciated.