I have to admit that I really enjoy playing EA’s ice hockey video games and given that I’m from the UK and have no knowledge of the sport it shows that there is something about the series which just keeps me hooked.

 

So here we are again one year down the line and yet another NHL game, this time number 10, has been released. The question is though, how have EA managed to improve a title that without question was already one of the best sports games to grace consoles?

 

 

The answer to the above question is pretty much available as soon as you turn the game on, from here you are met with a tutorial which introduces you to the games new features such as first person fighting and realistic grinding along the advertising boards, this is of course a nice way to introduce you to the features and also helps you to get used to the moves should you be a novice to the game.

 

As with last year the on ice action is where it’s at, the new features only help add to the realistic action, though it’s still as tough to win a match as it has always been. The new board play feature is quite a big addition as you are now able to use the boards to your advantage by sandwiching the opposing players into them, which obviously gives you a chance to escape with the puck. The new fighting feature is also a welcome addition, sure you were able to fight in previous versions, but not like this. To initiate the fight you simply tap the top button and the screen will then zoom into a first person view, here you use the analogue sticks to dodge and throw punches keeping this up until either you or your opponent hit the deck.

 

Other new features this year include new pre-set game styles and the ability to hit pucks out of the air, these are nice additions, especially the new pre-set styles which do change the speed, style and overall face of the game.

 

The gameplay is still as fun as last year, opponents and scoring remains tough, though there are a few niggling flaws such as the AI of your teammates who sometimes tend to take unnecessary risks such as passing the puck across the face of your goal or not providing the pass that you need. The goalies are especially eccentric often making unwanted trips away from their goal line. Despite these few flaws though the action is still of very high quality.

 

As far as game modes are concerned there aren’t many new additions this year, although given the menu was already packed anyway perhaps this is no surprise. Amongst the additions this year are Battle For The Cup which gives you straight entry to the Stanley Cup Finals with any two teams and the new Season Mode which allows you to play with up to 30 total players, these are really minor tweaks/additions compared to other years but welcome all the same.

 

The main improvements this year are to the Be A Pro and Be A GM Modes. The Be A Pro Mode now has the addition of Be A Tough Guy, this basically allows you to play as the tough guy in your team, giving you an added edge when facing up to opponents and defending. There is also a new shop in the Be A Pro Mode allowing you buy equipment though you can also earn this by playing rather than spending your cash. The GM Mode now includes an improved trade system and also a new reputation system, you are now also given goals to meet throughout your career by the GM tracker, which will earn you new cards and career milestones.

 

The online mode is as quality as always, with the EA Sports Hockey League allowing you to join up with five friends while other modes allow you to play either one vs one or with up to twelve other players.

 

Graphically the game is top notch, the fans and players are well animated, with the players especially showing improvement in terms of new movements. Elsewhere all the commentary, menus and arenas all have the level of polish and high quality you would expect.

 

NHL 10 may not be a huge leap from NHL 09 but its still big enough to warrant your consideration. This series remains amongst the best when in comes to sports sim on your console, so whether you are a hockey fan or not you should seriously consider this game.