For all the bad things you can say about EA, you cant argue with their American sports based titles. There have been challengers over the years, most of which have faded in the memory (Actua Hockey), some of which were too simple (NHL Hitz) and a few which were just no good. Fortunately (not so much for EA), 2K Sports NHL series has been a serious contender for the title of definitive ice hockey sim for the last few years, and NHL 2K7 is continuing the trend.
The same slick, intuitive play returns - tactical play, ProControl and the option of arcade or simulation modes allow pretty much anyone to jump into the fast-paced world of ice hockey whether a devotee of the sport or not. And this is indeed a fast-paced sport - hard challenges, powerful hits and the lingering threat of violence are the hallmarks of the sport, and something Kush has captured very well indeed. Control of the players feels very responsive, and every charge and slapshot feels suitably weighty, despite the fact the controller didnt rumble on Gamestyles first play (even though we thought it did).
The Franchise mode returns, in which you can play a career spanning years with the hope of creating the most formidable team in history. As is the norm with sports titles nowadays, there is a management element added to the action, allowing your shrewd player acquisitions and cunning tactics to lead you to victory (or mediocre league placing, as Gamestyle found in its first season). Its a strong part of the game, and something that usually isnt done much justice outside of a dedicated management title.The real reason to play the single player game, however, is to prepare for multiplayer on Live. Battling against human opponents has always been much more enjoyable than taking on a predictable AI challenger, and playing NHL 2K online is a great experience.
While waiting in the lobby, news and updated rosters are available, while searching for opponents is streamlined. You rarely find yourself waiting for more than 30 seconds to get into a game, and during play there is - thankfully - no lag. Up to eight players can take to the ice at once, encouraging communication with unknown team mates so as to set up the perfect goal. Multiplayer tournaments are also available, allowing you to prove youre the best of the best. Its a vital component of the title, and one thats integrated very well. If all this gushing praise seems overpowering, allow us to bring you back down a little. The game has its flaws, most notably the AI opponents. The opposing team often seems to avoid you, allowing your players the chance of a shot on goal. Even on the highest difficulty this was noticeable.
It seems the developer has compensated for this by making the goalie tougher, meaning you have to look for an opening rather than charging your shot and aiming at him in the hope the puck will find its way to the back of the net (which can be achieved occasionally). With time the single player game becomes a little too easy, and you wish the goalies team mates would be as challenging as he is.With a little more work, 2Ks next offering could be the definitive hockey game.
Right now, this is the best available, and is certainly worth a puck- sorry, punt. EAs series may still be a favourite among hockey fans, but we suggest you give this a try. Who knows, you might like it even more than NHL 07, and this could become your new favourite sports sim. You might prefer EAs game, and thats okay too. After all, its nice to have a choice.
