NHL All-Star Hockey

"Simply put, one of the worst hockey games I’ve played ever!"

NHL All-Star Hockey was the freshmen effort as far as Hockey games went for the newly released Sega Saturn. Some sports games that accompany system launches are just plain awesome, like NFL2K for the Dreamcast or NHL 2001 for the Playstation 2 (according to the general consensus), but this one hits the ice, and then some.

Graphics – 2/10

One good thing is the polygonal ice rinks. They are rough around the edges, but at least they are recognizable. The players on the other hand, are a pixilated mess. Digital, sprite-based hockey players look much better (albeit smaller) on the Sega Genesis console. Also, the framerate chops heavily, which is extremely detrimental to the overall gameplay. Another good thing is the clean look of the scoring boxes during gameplay.

Sound – 2/10

Like the missed penalty shot that was NHL Breakaway 98 for the Nintendo Sixty Four, NHL All Star Hockey for the Saturn has absolutely no in-game commentary. Marv Albert does introduce the game, but with hardly any elaboration whatsoever. In the game, you have an average crowd and the usual litany of hockey sounds, from the slapping of the puck, skating on the ice, and so on. However, like with Breakaway, the lack of in-game commentary in a 32-bit or later game is not acceptable.

Presentation – 7/10

Grey Matter Interactive, the developers of this game, got it right here. The menus are full of high-color pictures, and even small Full Motion Video snippets of Marv Albert and another commentator whom I do not know the name of. There is even a FMV tour of the Hockey Hall of Fame, complete with narration from Marv Albert. If only the gameplay could equal the presentation. There are also in-between FMVs from the humorous (the coaching ones) to the mundane (player of the week)

Gameplay – 3/10

To sum it up in one word, unresponsive. The hockey players should glide like fighter jets, not move like bricks. Half of the time, your player doesn’t even pass or shoot. Combine this with the pitiful graphics and sound and you will not have fun playing this one at all. Options are good, on the other hand, with the ability to play in seasons, playoffs, and even create and design players.

Miscellaneous –

Developed by Grey Matter Interactive and published by Sega of America, this hockey game is rated KA for Kids to Adults, which is the same as E for Everyone. A game by the same name is also available on the Sega Game Gear and the Sega Genesis. The game also supports the 3D Analog Pad and the 6-Player Adapter.

Overall – 3/10

Disappointing all across the board with bad graphics, minute sound and crippled gameplay, and this hockey game is only recommended as a cheap purchase (which thankfully was the situation with me - $4) or a giveaway. Otherwise, steer clear and head with EA Sports for Saturn hockey.

Reviewer's Score: 3/10, Originally Posted: 04/29/01, Updated 04/29/01