NHL 2K8

NHL 2K8 is the next installment in the series of sports games published since 2004. As the game's title suggests, we are dealing here with an ice hockey simulator. At the same time, it is a direct competitor of the similar series of games published by Electronic Arts. Kush Games, thet studio that also developed the previous installment of the game, is responsible for preparing the 2K8 edition, as well as such titles as Major League Baseball 2K7, or ESPN College Hoops. The publisher is still the branch of 2K, which focuses entirely on sports games. Parallel game series offer basketball or American football. NHL 2K8 was created for owners of three consoles, although the developer does not hide the fact that the PS3 and X360 versions had priority. Edition released on PS2 offers much worse graphics.

The latest edition of the game has several important improvements to offer, although a lot of seemingly insignificant details have also been taken care of. Among other things, the devs remodeled the appearance of the main menu to make navigation easier. NHL 2K8 offers full National Hockey League license, so that all real-life players and teams appear in the game. The players' outfits and equipment were also recreated more precisely. Many of these items come from brand manufacturers, such as Reebok (e.g. Rbk Edge series).

If we take into account the more important aspects of the game, the control of the players on the ice has been improved. Among other things, the importance of one of the analogue knobs was increased, assigning many important moves to it. In addition, the devs took care to show the differences in behavior and preferences in playing the game by many of the most famous hockey players. The referees now behave more realistically, reacting to fouls plays or incorrect movements. This is especially evident during face-offs, i.e. when two players are facing each other in an attempt to win the puck for their team. AI-controlled characters now play more decisively. Visuals of the game presents much higher level than in the previous installment of the series, especially in the case of the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions. The competition can be watched from many different camera shots. As far as the sound layer is concerned, professional commentary by Bob Cole and Harry Neale is provided. In addition, attractive replays have been prepared. In addition to the standard single player, the game also includes network modes.

Last updated on 10 December 2007