Summary

For those that have yearned for a great EA hockey game since the Genesis days, this is your year to rejoice. NHL 2005 is what hockey is supposed to be--fast paced and fun. EA has made numerous strides in trying to bring back the franchise we all grew up with and loved. If you swore off of EA, this is the time to get back on the wagon. This game is addictive.

Sound

The sound is doable. The play-by-play tandem is the same however they seem to call the game with a more serious tone versus the 3rd grade humor we were getting dumped on us year after year.

Gameplay

The gameplay is where NHL 2005 kicks it and is vastly improved over last year's effort. You will find that your controlled players react well with the controller movements. Unlike last year when the players felt heavy and moved sluggishly. The one area that most gamers complain about is the use of physical play. The physical play is still there however can be toned down by adjusting sliders. The fighting engine is back and is the best in the business. Also back is the best dynasty mode of any hockey game. However, not available this year are unlockables the inexcuseable exclusion of create-a-player. That is right--NO CREATE-A-PLAYER option. That is unheard of. Not a huge deal because the gameplay makes up for it.