Games Database
PC
Sport: Ice Hockey
| Also for: | PS2, Xbox, GameCube | ||
| Viewed: | 3D Combination | Genre: | Sport: Ice Hockey |
| Media: | CD | Arcade origin: | No |
| Developer: | Electronic Arts | Soft. Co.: | Electronic Arts |
| Publishers: | Electronic Arts
(GB) |
Released: | 3 Oct 2003
(GB) |
| Ratings: | PEGI 12+ | ||
| Accessories: | Control Pad | ||
Summary
With only minor competition in the virtual ice hockey genre, Electronic Arts can boast the most successful and longest running series of NHL games the industry has to offer. It’s now in its 13th year and NHL 2004 is finally ready for a PC release.
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, provided you are using a third party controller and not a mouse and keyboard, and makes the game easy to learn.
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.
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, provided you are using a third party controller and not a mouse and keyboard, and makes the game easy to learn.
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.
