NHL 2K8 Review
Even with pressure from EA, 2K delivers an excellent hockey game.
Posted by Robert Workman on Thursday, September 13, 2007
2K Sports' NHL 2K8 has a fresh approach that requires thinking on the ice, not just bum-rushing every player that has possession of the puck in an attempt to storm the goal. The improved visuals and some already well-established options make it a more-than-worthy sports experience -- and a must for hockey fans.
The new control mechanism comes in the form of Pro Stick, which may redefine the franchise -- and hockey gaming in general. The right analog stick comes into play more often with this set-up, as players use it to lean their stick left and right and also tightly keep possession of the puck. Shooting was remapped onto the bumper buttons and players modify it for concentrated and quick slap shots. Surprisingly, two types of boosting are available, either in the form of a traditional sprint or a full-blown boost across the ice. It seems complicated at first, but after scoring a few goals and watching your teammates cheer, it proves itself a rewarding change for the better. With that said, you can switch back to the old control scheme if you dislike the new one.
NHL 2K8's artificial intelligence acts with more aggression this time around; no more wandering around blindly and letting you get away with a fast break. They'll check just as viciously as your team, leaving players lying on the ice and robbing them of the puck.
Select the arcade style of play and get ready for a lot of fights. Players can either skip over these and o stick to the action, or hit the Back button on their D-pad and teach Todd Bertuzzi or some other chump a lesson in etiquette with the help of clenched fists.
On top of the gameplay, 2K Sports retooled Franchise Mode, which continues to be a deep and enjoyable experience. Negotiation for top players actually feels like a challenge, along with having to persistently keep up on the salary cap and contracts as you work your way towards that much-desired Stanley Cup. The player progression system, however, really piqued our interests. Hockey fans will have a blast improving the skills of individual players, shaping them into the next Wayne Gretzky or Peter Forsberg. The Create-a-Player option returns once again, so those looking to implement themselves into the game can do so. The game also supports Xbox Live, same as it always has, through the power of leagues, tournaments and automatic match-ups.
Finally, we come to presentation. The graphics look amazing, with exquisite player details and movement emulated just like the real pros. The arenas appear authentic, right down to the spray of ice that comes from the skates and the wobbling of the boards after a slide. The frame rate hiccups every now and then and the crowd looks like a gaggle of cardboard cutouts, but otherwise, this is a great-looking hockey game.
The audio makes us smile, thanks to a fine assortment of rock anthems (kudos to whoever chose Quiet Riot), good running commentary and bone-crunching sound effects. Cinemotion makes a return as well, for those who feel like rushing down the ice to an orchestrated film-like score.
Certainly, there's room for improvement, particularly with the visuals and the expansion of online options. For now, though, 2K Sports has done just enough to keep up with the competition. NHL 2K8 looks and plays like the actual thing. That rush of coming down the ice on a breakaway with Sakic or Crosby can send chills down the spine. Any game that can emulate that kind of euphoria definitely deserves a purchase.
Final Score: 8/10
