ESPN NHL 2K5 Review

8.0

Format PlayStation 2

Developer Visual Concepts

Publisher Sega

Genre Sports

Call it a sign of getting old or just a lack of knowledge about ice hockey, but we have all sorts of trouble just seeing where the puck is. Not that it matters much in NHL 2K5. Half the time we're too busy tripping up players and trying to start punch-ups to worry about the actual score.

So it's fair to say that most of the game's features will be lost on UK gamers. The Franchise mode's new scouting system, opportunity to bring through minor-league players and ability to hire coaching staff are all well and good, but will test the patience of the majority who usually plump for the quick play option.

Far more enjoyable is the new Party mode for up to four players. Confirming that ice hockey and PlayStation go together better with a few beers, these multiplayer mini-games prove to be a right laugh. Weaving through traffic cones while the other three try to check and hook you, or playing a version of 'it' using your stick to tag opponents are the sort of games that you'll find yourself playing pissed after a night down the pub.

Out on the rink the game has been carefully tuned so it's not too easy to score and not too congested so that you can't find a way through. There are also plenty of options to make the game as arcadey or as realistic as you like. Players who pass the puck around until a gap is created are rewarded more than those who simply hold down the speed boost and bomb in a straight line towards goal. On the defensive side you can now helpfully skate backwards and use the right analogue stick to jab your stick in any direction, while the more aggressive new fouling moves should only be reserved for when an opponent is through on goal.

In truth there wasn't much wrong with last season's ESPN NHL Hockey, and the minimal changes aren't enough to justify buying NFL 2K5 as well. Still, you can't have too many complaints when 20 gets you the best ice hockey game going.

PSW Staff