NHL 2004

NHL 2004 Description

The best-selling NHL games ever produced, the Electronic Arts series has been running since 1993, and year on year it has proved itself as the most popular game of its kind. That trend is set to continue as EA releases NHL 2004 for Xbox. At face value, NHL 2004 boasts the usual set of player and team updates and statistics, but once players become involved with the virtual sport, they'll uncover a whole new set of features. First and perhaps foremost for a game of this kind, EA has incorporated a new fight system, boasting new fight animations and improved decking and hitting. Second to gameplay, the fight engine is a vital aspect to this latest NHL game and it's one that delivers. In terms of playing an actual game of ice hockey, NHL 2004 is very similar to any football game you may have played. It's a simple case of get the puck, pass it, then shoot for the goal. The control method is remarkably simple - using the right analogue stick for hitting - helping to make this latest instalment accessible to anyone. There's also a Dynasty Mode in which players can assume the role of GM. Here you'll be responsible for detailed aspects of management and given time and experience, you'll be able to upgrade facilities, hire new staff and sign new players. Effectively, it's a management sim as well as a sports title. EA's latest offering, like every other release in the series, is the best yet.

• Deep EA SPORTS Dynasty Mode: Take your turn at being the GM. Earn enough experience points and you can upgrade facilities, hire new staff, and build a better office for yourself. The upgrades affect your team's attributes and your ability to sign players
  
• Drop the Gloves: The most realistic and exciting hockey fight engine on the market uses an authentic fight system that stems from grappling rather than simple button-mashing boxing.
  
• New Hitting Animations: Tons of new body checks motions captured from even more angles for added realism, including explosive player collisions
  
• Smart Player AI: Using situational AI, players respond intelligently to different situations on the ice. The computer will predict and anticipate so that players react intelligently to various situations during the game
  
• International Appeal: Select from 30 current NHL hockey teams, NHL All-Star Teams, or go worldwide with 20 National teams or an international elite league featuring 39 teams from Sweden, Finland, and Germany, with unique uniforms, logos, and rules
  
• NHL Atmosphere: Improved rendering, realistic skating and player models, new animations, stylish presentation, and more real-life stadiums