NHL 09

I played tons of hockey back in high school and havent played in a few years. This game brings back so many memories because it is extremely realistic. This graphics are awesome, the new hitting physics are a great improvement, the stick handling and shooting is super smooth and much improved. this game is reallllly addicting and I highly recommend to fans of the NHL series.

It's been a while since I've played an NHL game from EA that didn't feel like I was still playing the previous year's version. Thankfully, NHL 09 changes all that. That arcade feel that EA's NHL series has been infamous for? It's pretty much gone, and in it's place instead is an actual realistic simulation that rivals the 2K series. Opponent AI has also been considerably amped, helping make the game more simulation-based than ever before. The new additions to the already excellent skill stick are superb, with new manuvers and tactics for clogging passing lanes and putting a new emphasis on defensive-based hockey. If using the skill stick isn't your thing, there's a two-button control scheme based on the classic NHL '94 that is a pure joy to use. The Be a Pro mode is immersive beyond belief, and the game looks and plays beautifully. Online play suffers from some flaws however, most notably being an interface that isn't too user-friendly, and some occasional connection issues. Flaws aside though, NHL 09 is without a doubt the best NHL game to come from EA in years, and if you're a hockey fan it goes without saying that NHL 09 deserves your attention.

Hockey has definitely not been my most selective choice in video games in past years so i say this is an unbiased review. The game is outstanding in my opinion from the graphics, to the computer AI, even to the sometimes annoying commentary - they comment on EVERYTHING. Having had this game from its release date i have to say i religiously play this game and it will not bore you as i play on rookie and while i have a score-a-thon on some occasions, i do find myself going into shootouts every once in a while. Playing on harder difficulties WILL provide an adequate challenge to even the more adept players as it will require you to make plays on the puck more frequently to stop the fleury of shots on goal you will receive from the opposition. Go out and buy this game because just renting is not enough!!!

<br />It is really that good <br /> <br />9.0 they give it as a rating. But I would say 9.5 <br /> <br />It is that good (I know it is redundant) <br /> <br />The best part is you can do the "be a pro mode" <br /> <br />It is hard to set up the "Be a pro mode" but once you watch the tutorial it is still not that clear hahaahha. <br /> <br />You can be an actual pro or just make yourself an NHL player and have your favorite number and name on the back of your jersey. <br /> <br />It is a very awesome game. In "be a pro mode" you actually have to wait your turn on the bench a certain parts of the game and wait for your stamina to come back up. <br /> <br />Makes you just want to get in the game even more. So much fun. I might know what I am playing all weekend other than watching football. <br /> <br />B <br />www.extendedplayarcade.com