NHL 2002 - PS2

Electronic Arts’ NHL sports series has brought the American sport of ice hockey to the mainstream video game audience in the UK. Eager to continue the NHL games' success, and improve on it, EA gives us its latest update for PlayStation 2, NHL 2002.

To begin with, NHL 2002 features the usual enhancements any games player would expect to see from an update. Improved graphics and updated team statistics and players are among the most noticeable.

But there are also a few new features aimed at improving gameplay. Perhaps most importantly, EA has developed a new ‘breakaway’ camera system that helps players gain an increased sense of their 3D surroundings and gives them a better feel for what’s going on in the playing arena. Remember, there’s nothing more annoying in a 3D video game than a faulty camera. Well done, EA.

There is also a mode in NHL 2002 that tells a story as you progress. This is an intriguing approach that is rarely seen in a game of this kind, and it’s worth an in-depth look.

The NHL Cards system allows players to earn points when playing, which will then allow them to purchase a series of trading cards; a neat little sub quest that adds great longevity and variety to the title.

As a simulator, NHL 2002 performs well. Animation and motion capture has been improved for increased fluidity in gameplay. Career, Playoff, Season, Shootout and Tournament modes of play allow the players to explore almost every avenue available within the world of ice hockey.

NHL 2002 is comprehensive and well polished. As technology waits for the next generation in console gaming, there is little EA could have done to improve such a game. more