ESPN NHL 2K5

"Three years of domination and counting..."

A new year, a new hockey season (let's cross our fingers for this year). And with a new hockey season comes new hockey video games. Traditionally, EA has controlled the video game realm of this amazing and action-packed sport. However, in recent past, a new challenger has emerged. Sega, who has always been known for making great video games, has gotten themselves into the sports market, including hockey. NHL 2K3(Sega) far out shined NHL 2003(EA) in graphics, gameplay, and fun. Last year, after receiving an ESPN face lift, Sega's hockey once again buried EA's. What about this year? Let's take a look at one of the contenders, ESPN NHL 2K5.

Graphics: 8/10

At first glance, the graphics in NHL 2K5 may seem choppy or blocky. However, once you get into the game, the players move smoothly on the ice. The actual player models are good as well. The arenas are very detailed and really give you a sense of being in the game. Overall, the graphics are solid.

Sound: 9/10

With the ESPN name comes the ESPN presentation. Those classic tunes are now in the game. The music can actually convey the emotions of a game. The announcers are once again very good, just like in real life. The crowd chants are good as well. But where ESPN really shines in this area is the on-ice sounds. As players glide across the ice, you can hear the blades scraping in playing surface. With big body checks come big crushing sound. Overall, the sound is excellent.

Gameplay: 10/10

The reason you WILL get this game. ESPN NHL 2K5 is very realistic and addictively fun at the same time, just as its predecessors were. It is as close as you can get to actually putting on gear and playing out on the ice. Everything flows with such precision that cannot be put into words. Overall, the gameplay will make you forget about the rest of your life.

Overall: 9/10

ESPN NHL 2K5 does not disappoint. And at just $19.99, you would have to be mentally unstable to not pick this one up. Unless EA's NHL 2005 can somehow top this superb package, it looks like ESPN wins again.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 09/04/04