- VIP Affliction

First Impressions
The Motiv VIP Affliction arrives as a limited edition in a Dark Purple Solid / Purple Pearl / Orange color scheme and marks the comeback of the popular VIP series in 2021. The ball features the Infusion HV Hybrid coverstock, the Affliction core, a 2.500 RG, a 0.052 differential and a 0.000 intermediate differential in 15 pounds. The surface comes at 4000 grit LSS and should deliver optimal traction on heavy oil while maintaining continuation. The fast-revving Affliction core has a low RG and a considerable differential, which makes it suitable for aggressive players and higher speeds.
Comparison
The VIP Affliction is designed for an angular motion in heavy oil, digging into the oil while still retaining enough energy for a significant angle on the backend. That combination gives the bowler both stability and power, paired with the clean and angular hybrid cover. Compared with other heavy-oil options, the ball shows a less aggressive front-end reaction than, for example, the Storm Phaze II, but offers stronger backend motion than typical symmetrical solid balls. For players who normally don't favor hybrid covers, the VIP Affliction is a convincing alternative. The 4000 grit LSS surface provides more traction than a shiny pearl, but isn't so dull that continuation is lost.
On the Lanes
If you're speed-dominant, this is a strong enough core to let you comfortably create angle, with the low RG paired with a high differential allowing higher speeds and more aggressive launch angles. Balanced players who like to create angle early in the block will appreciate having the VIP Affliction in the bag, since it fills that crucial spot in a competitive balanced player's arsenal. For rev-dominant players the ball is ideal when there is a considerable puddle of oil in the middle but you want to win the race to the left, as it offers just enough traction in the oil to let rev-dominant players get left quickly. This combination makes the VIP Affliction incredible for creating angle on heavy-oil patterns that transition a lot. The ball is particularly suited to tournament situations on fresh heavy-oil patterns and shows its strengths on both sport patterns and house patterns with higher oil volume.