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The latest entry in EA Sports’ NHL franchise. NHL 08 is a solid sequel to last year’s NHL 07. Although it lacks a revolutionary new feature like its predecessor’s skill stick, there are many improvements that make NHL 08 the finest hockey game to come out of EA Sports.
NHL 08 improves on its predecessor’s biggest weakness: the lack of game modes. NHL 08’s Dynasty mode is a much more involved affair this time around since it gives you more detailed management and coaching options, as well as an improved negotiation system for signing players. The game also includes a fantastic practice mode that lets you play against an opposing team to perfect your skills. In this mode, you can also create your own plays, which is pretty cool. The practice mode even includes a goalie so you can try to perfect those new plays even further.
NHL 08 has the actual gameplay mechanisms nearly perfected by now. The AI has been improved from last year and is a bit more aggressive, so you’ll have to make sure to have a varied offense if you want to score those points. The game will even give you pointers in between the periods letting you know what you can improve on, which provides surprisingly good advice. Additionally, the game’s skill stick has been improved from last year to feel smoother and reduce the number of questionable shots that last year’s game made. There were some minor changes to the game’s defensive controls to reduce the number of checks and improve goalie controls to make that part of the game more fun.
NHL 08 has a vastly improved online component. EA Sports has added online leagues, team matches (where up to six people can play), in addition to last year’s one-on-one competitive multiplayer. The game lets you customize your league and even award a trophy for the winner. You’ll also find improved stat tracking in the game. The online performance has been improved from last year’s game, too, and is generally lagfree this time around with few disconnects.
NHL 08’s graphics are quite impressive. The amazing player models look even better this time around thanks to even sharper textures and improved animations. Players now move more realistically and authentically then they did last year, thanks in part to the game’s slower (but now slow) pace. The arenas, fans and ice all come together to bring one of the sharpest looking sports games currently available. The way the ice comes off the skates while you’re playing is simply something that has to be seen.
The game’s audio is comprised of the typical EA Trax rock music that is fitting if somewhat forgettable. The sound effects accurately bring to life the onscreen action, even if they haven’t been overhauled from last year’s game. The commentary is still provided by Bill Clement and Gary Thorne, whose chemistry and great lines make the experience all the more pleasant.
NHL 08 manages to improve on last year’s already great hockey game. If you were a fan of last year’s effort, NHL 08 won’t disappoint. -- Michael Taylor, PGNx Media
---- Oct 3, 2007
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