NHL

Reviewed by junky12345 on August 01, 2008  |  report this review

In the ever changing climate of video games, developers have to take risks in order to try and ascend to the next level. In that regard, NHL 2K8 is no different. It is a very ambitious title, and for the most part the new style pays off. Hockey purists will find a lot to like on this frozen pond, but for those looking for a game they can just pick up and play this might not be the game of puck they are looking for. That is not to say that this is not a great title, but for the first few games it can be a labor of love.
What's new? This time around quite a bit, and at first it can be a bit jarring. NHL 2K8 implements one of the more bizarre controls schemes in any sports title; shooting and passing with the left and right bumper just doesn't feel quite right. Then you factor in the not so subtle rip off of NHL 2007's total stick control with the right analog, and you quickly discover that what 2007 did so right 2K8 did so wrong. Where the stick in 2007 and NHL 2008 for that matter is smooth, 2K8's feels clunky at times, almost like you are stick handling in water. Offensively, it is best to avoid the pro-stick altogether. On defense, it serves multiple purposes giving the player free control to clog passing lanes, poke check a rushing attacker, or even lay the twig flat on the ice to prevent crossing passes. The good news is it will not take long to adjust to the controls (it helps that they provide you with a detailed interactive tutorial for all the new features), and in time you will appreciate how deep the developers made this game.