NHL 2K7 (PlayStation 2, 2006)

The title is the truth. I'm not biased towards one company; I own both NHL 07 and NHL 2K7 for the Playstation 2.

NHL 2K7 delivers for me on the gameplay, plain and simple. The puck physics are excellent. Tip-ins, deflections, and more orginal ways to score. NHL 07 has the problem of NHL '93, where there's always one cheap move or way to score goals. This annoys me, as playing against friends always turns into a cheapfest. In 2K7, the AI is way better and you'll rarely score the same goal twice. The goalies' also make more amazing saves in desperate situations. The commentating of Bob Cole and Harry Neale are much more varied and insightful then NHL 07's Jim Hughson.

The rewards system is another great feature, as you can unlock old jerseys, logos, arenas, and other cool extras that are worthwhile for reply value. Mini games exist, if your tired of game after game; swith it up with some fun and exciting mini-games, fifteen in total. I also like the fact a tutorial is included, where you learn and master the various gameplay controls, instead of just reading about it and forgetting it afterwards. Updating rosters are much easier too, especially if you do it manually like I have too.

The only faults are the graphics, which are still great, but not as detailed as 07's. The Franchise mode does not take a salary cap into effect, as it deals with more the players and on-ice product then the business side like 07 can both with both. Even then, Eastside Manager is my fix for hockey simulation; NHL 2K7 is my choice for the awesome gameplay and drama that only console hockey can bring.