NHL 2005

NHL 2005 Description

Year on year Electronic Arts succeeds in delivering the most popular, most in-depth and best-looking NHL title to grace the genre. Where for many developers it would be easier to release the same old game engine with a few updated figures, EA takes the time and effort to produce a sequel that's much more than a generic update. And NHL 2005 is a true testament to this. Though updated season statistics and player information are welcome with series veterans, it's what's new about NHL 2005 that really matters to its players. Firstly, EA has introduced what it calls Open Ice Control, which is a fancy saying for a better play mechanic. Noticeably different from earlier instalments, gameplay is now much more seamless, affording players the ability to switch between players, call for passes and set up defensive double teams with the push of a button. Quite simply, the game is more fluid than it's ever been. Furthermore, NHL 2005 is host to brand new skating engine that affords its players remarkable precision and control. It's not only superior in terms of gameplay; it also helps to better capture the fast-paced play of the sport, placing an emphasis on a character's gliding and acceleration. In addition, skaters are now driven be new 'personality AI', a technique that sees individual NHL stars behave as they would in real life. Dynasty mode, effectively the game's built-in management simulation, is largely the same as it was before. However, there is a new and in-depth email system to tinker with, bringing the series right up to date. With every update we ask ourselves how EA will beat the latest NHL game, and every year we seem to get a very good answer. Who knows what NHL 2006 will have in store?

Open Ice Control: Seamlessly switch between players with or without the puck, call for passes, set up a vicious one-timer, drive the net for a deflection, or call for a defensive double team on the fly with just the push of a button.

All-New Skating Engine: A new skating engine emphasizes gliding and accelerating, capturing the fast pace of hockey. A refined backwards skating system also allows for unprecedented defensive precision and control.

World Cup of Hockey: NHL 2005 features all the teams, all the venues, and all the action of this year's global tournament featuring the top eight hockey nations in the world.

Pick up and Play Action: Fast-paced gameplay captures the pacing and flow of pro hockey, providing seasoned players with deep, nuanced gameplay, while hockey rookies are able to quickly dive in with a rewarding, easy-to-learn experience.

Dynasty ModeTM: Gamers take on the role of a GM managing every aspect of their team's operations, from setting ticket prices to calling up a prospect from the minors. A new PDA and email system streamlines communications and adds new depth to owner/GM relations.

Personality-Driven AI: All-new AI recreates the play styles and personalities of the biggest names in the game.provide their commentary and irreverent observations on each round.