Stepping up the game

This game came around just in time. I was pretty close to giving up on hockey games altogether. Past hockey games have just been all too repetitive. It doesn't seem like it should be that difficult to make a decent hockey game. I am surprised that it was the 2K company that finally did it right. This game is simply a good time. Start a franchise with your favorite team (better be the Pens) and go for the cup. You can trade, pick up free agents, negotiate contracts, practice, scrimmage and all sorts of other things. Various old teams, alternate uniforms and special stadiums are featured as unlockables.

Gameplay is good for the most part. The game can be slightly inconsistent and sometimes things will happen for no reason. Now and then your player may skate right over a loose puck and not pick it up. Also, the shooting system may frustrate you at first.

The soundtrack sucks. It's all obscure bands that I've never heard of. The overall game is solid though and that's all you can ask for with a sports game.

The difficulty levels are good, and it will take you a long time to master the game well enough to win consistently on the hardest setting.