NHL 2K2

"An excellent hockey game with some problems!"

In this being the last game ever being made for the Sega Dreamcast console, all I can say is, the Dreamcast goes out with a bang. The best playing hockey video game ever in my opinion. However, there are some serious issues with this game, that should have been resolved before it's release. Now on to the in-depth review.
Gameplay: 10
This game play's beautifully. Gone are the arcade-like checks from the EA hockey series. Replacing them are more fluid hits, and a defensive game that deals more with stick work then open ice checking, just like real hockey. Also gone is the ability to fly down the ice and use countless centering passes to create scoring opportunities at will. In this game you have to set up an offense. The game makes you use strategy to breakdown opposing defenses. As far as on the ice gameplay goes, NHL2K2 has done it better than any other game ever period.
Graphics: 8
The visuals are nice, however I feel the player models could have been created a little better. However you will notice that Player sizes are dome pretty well in comparison to other players. For example, Lindros or Primeau, are huge in comparison to Fleury and Jagr. The goal-cam replay looks a little distorted. Collision detection is superb in this game as well.
Game modes and other options: 2
This right here is the major downfall of the game and keeps the game rated at an 8 overall instead of a 10. This game does not contain a franchise mode, only a single season, I really do not have to explain why that is a bad thing. Certain players are severely under/over rated. There is no Option to have the CPU trade during the season, and any trade you make will go through. Which gives the ability to trade Todd Fedoruk for Jaromir Jagr. I understand that someone might want to keep it that way in exhibition, to update the rosters and make trades that the CPU will reject even though they really happened, but it takes away from the season mode. Controller options, and line settings, cannot be saved.
Overall: 8
As I said earlier on the ice, (which matters most) This game is unmatched. Off the ice, the options have been better on games for the Genesis. (at least you could save your lines) If you can look past the downfalls, then you will have a great hockey game. It's definitely worth a purchase!

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 02/26/02, Updated 02/26/02