NHL 2005

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The decade-long obsession begun by EA's Genesis-era hockey titles continues with NHL 2005. This year's enhancements include smarter and less scripted...
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PS2

Xbox

very good

CRITICS SCORE

7.7

(16 ratings)

GAMER SCORE

8.3

(160 ratings)

Game Overview

The Bottom Line

The decade-long obsession begun by EA's Genesis-era hockey titles continues with NHL 2005. This year's enhancements include smarter and less scripted player AI, context-sensitive control features based more on the personalities of each real player (enforcers will have the power to level players, whereas more technical pros will have use more of finesse), easier player control for skating backwards and gliding after a sprint, Open Ice Control for coordinating players into better passing positions, and improvements to the robust Dynasty mode.

Expert Reviews

79/100

score

This is still a solid game of hockey, but it isn't the most realistic or best-playing NHL title out there, and as such, it shouldn't be your first choice for one.

84/100

score

Add silky smooth animations and an addictive pick-up-and-play gameplay style and you end up with NHL 2005.

83/100

score

Although a lot of the other pieces are in place -- Franchise, modes, and presentation -- the final product is a little light on gameplay.

Game Features

• Open Ice Control: Seamlessly switch between players with or without the puck, call for passes, set up a vicious one-timer, drive the net for a deflection, or call for a defensive double team on the fly with just the push of a button. • All-New Skating Engine: A new skating engine emphasizes gliding and accelerating, capturing the fast pace of hockey. A refined backwards skating system also allows for unprecedented defensive precision and control. • World Cup of Hockey: NHL 2005 features all the teams, all the venues, and all the action of this year's global tournament featuring the top eight hockey nations in the world. • Pick up and Play Action: Fast-paced gameplay captures the pacing and flow of pro hockey, providing seasoned players with deep, nuanced gameplay, while hockey rookies are able to quickly dive in with a rewarding, easy-to-learn experience. • Dynasty Mode™: Gamers take on the role of a GM managing every aspect of their team's operations, from setting ticket prices to calling up a prospect from the minors. A new PDA and email system streamlines communications and adds new depth to owner/GM relations. • Personality-Driven AI: All-new AI recreates the play styles and personalities of the biggest names in the game. • EA SPORTS™ Nation: Go online with the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system* and compete with the best players from around the country.

EA's NHL 2005 Skates Into Stores Everywhere Today Top Selling Pro Hockey Franchise is THE Place to Play Hockey this Fall

ESRB Game Ratings

This game is Rated: Everyone
Content is most suitable for children ages 6 and up. This game may contain some cartoons or fantasy characters and potentially mild violence or language.

Content Descriptors:

Violence