The Seadogs, pirate hats jauntily perched
atop their heads, faces an emotionless mask, take their places, led by
Red and Blackbeard. The Colorado Avalanche, more animated, looking confidant
and cool, step onto the disco floor.
Wait, disco floor? Complete with multi-colored
floor lights and mirror balls? Is this a dance contest?
In a manner of speaking it is a dance,
but the kind that can only be found in hard-hitting hockey action
the kind delivered by Midway Sports and Black Box in the blistering new
NHL Hitz 20-03 for the PlayStation2.
Most PS2 players know that there are two
controller ports for multiplayer games. But NHL Hitz 20-03 is geared up
for online play, and will allow up to six players in a game. Because this
is three-on-three action (with a keeper as the fourth) that really opens
up the game for intense multiplayer gaming.
For those unfamiliar with the series, NHL
Hitz is an arcade-style program. It is the game of hockey with some modifications
aside from the limited number of players. The venue is smaller, which
allows this version to stage games on a pirate ship, a corral and the aforementioned
disco floor, among other, more notable arenas. And there is an emphasis
on hitting. It is easy to turbo up and lower the boom on an opposing player,
separating him from his helmet and sending him in one direction, and the
equipment in another. Players can catch on fire, literally. Terrific defensive
plays, rocketing shots and pinpoint passing boosts the each players meter
until, with the tap of a button, he ignites and trails fire as he skates.
It really is a terrific effect.
But wait, there’s more … Not only can the
player’s meter rise, but the team’s can as well. If the team’s meter gets
full, you can ignite the entire team.
If a penalty is upcoming to a certain player,
strands of electricity dance down and strike the player, emitting a glow
about him. In three-on-three action, playing a man down against a skilled
team is akin to spotting them a goal.
NHL Hitz 20-03 is an expansion of the 20-02
title. The folks at Black Box have added new mini-games, like keep-away,
and in addition to the expanded season mode (where you take on the NHL
season), there is a new franchise mode. Build a team, create the players,
and then challenge to level up players and the team. As you start this
mode, the teams you encounter seem a little weak until you start getting
stronger. Then the competition starts getting tougher.
Other new features include in-depth statistical
coverage, international and all-star teams, a hockey school and a host
of new music that will get pulse pounding and inspire you to go out and
hit someone.
The control elements of the game are kept
rather simple, and even those who have yet to play this game should have
a handle on them in about 20 minutes. The player interface is also easy
to navigate, making this a user-friendly experience.
Graphically this game is a treat. The animation
is wonderful (though the fighting sequences seem a little slower in this
edition), the venues are well rendered and the special effects are spectacular.
The music and play-by-play announcing are terrific.
NHL Hitz 20-03 is an arcade-style game
that is addictive and fun. It is fast-paced, challenging and a treat for
the eyes and ears. If you are a hockey fan, though not a purist, this is
a game you will want to have.
This game is rated for Everyone.
Gameplay: 8.3
The action is seamless and the game’s
move along quickly. The AI is a little suspect if you play the franchise
mode in the default settings.
Graphics: 8.5
The special effects are amazing, the animation
is smooth and solid and the venues are well done. Player faces seem a little
angled and vacant, and the fight sequences seem to operate at a slower
speed that in the 20-02 edition.
Sound: 8.9
The soundtrack features music by Incubus,
Powerman 5000, Rob Zombie, Moby, The Zambonis and Drowning Pool. Not only
is the soundtrack exceptional, but the play-by-play is excellent as well.
The game sounds are what one would expect.
Difficulty: Medium
You can go from a 4-0 lead to trail 5-4
in minutes against a superior team if you start playing silly. Passing
is the key, and if you can master that, you can beat the challenge this
game presents. The controller set-up will require a small learning curve,
but the player interface is well designed.
Concept: 8.5
This is an example of taking a solid arcade
game and making it better with new features and options.
Multiplayer: 8.5
Sure, playing against the console-controlled
teams is just fine, but the game takes on added challenge and enjoyment
when competing against friends.
Overall: 8.5
This is an enjoyable, addictive game that
looks and sounds great. It presents a nice challenge, and has a solid options
package.
