NHL 2K8 (Xbox 360, 2007)

For the money $$$, NHL 2K8 is the best looking hockey gamethis year hands down. The ice is slick and gets torn up as skaters race across it, the screen pops with color and action, and the players are always moving and hungry for the puck. Here is the Question NHL 08 or 2K8?

I'm here to tell you about 2K's impressive and intensive take on the NHL. Like I said before, I realize you're a hockey fan, but I can't assume you know about 2K's history on the ice. Year in and year out, this franchise has made its name by being the top hockey sim around, and fans who have turned to this series for the feel of a real game aren't about to be disappointed -- but they are going to have to learn to play all over again.

Hockey games have been integrating the right thumbstick for sometime -- whether it is for dekes or shot modifiers -- but 2K8's default Pro Stick control scheme means your success hinges on mastering the idea of rocking two thumbsticks -- yes, very similar to last year's EA outing -- and the bumpers as your primary method of control.

I used to buy the Ea Sports Nhl games but fall in love with the nhl 2k6 and have been buying it for the past 3 years...also did i tell you that it is cheaper in price!

I love the Ads on the boards it makes it look like a Real Rink.

Harry Nealy and Bob Cole do the PLAY BY PLAY

The only thing that bugs me about the game is that the goalies don't have there orginal masks, Ea Sports has the Rights to that!

BUY THIS GAME AND YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED, THANKS

8.0 Presentation
The tree-diagram interface is lame and doesn't fit the fun, fluid style of the game.

8.5 Graphics
The players fly around (and reflect in) the ice, the replays are detailed and the cuts to the bench look great. Too bad the crowd looks blah.

8.0 Sound
The player sounds, arena rock anthems and general hockey ambience sounds excellent, but the commentary is stiff and the Cinemotion feels phoned in.

8.5 Gameplay
The Pro Stick is going to challenge you -- in the best way -- for every score and lead to a real sense of accomplishment and mastery. The computer can be cheap and seems to get all the breaks.

9.0 Lasting Appeal
Contract negotiations, free agency, online leagues, player growth and more ensure that if building a dynasty is your thing, this is well worth the price of admission.

9.0
Excellent OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)