NHL 2K7

2K7 also introduces "Cinemotion", which refers to a new approach to everything related to their new presentation - camera angles, cutscenes, music, and sound effects.

The new camera dynamically follows the puck down the ice, keeping you close to the action without ever obscuring the bigger picture, so you'll still be able to see open players to target passes. It never hinders gameplay, and we never felt like flipping over to one of the old 3/4s or overhead views - the new camera felt just right.

"Cinemotion Music" refers to dynamic music which changes in intensity and volume to reflect what's happening on the ice, though we wouldn’t blame you for turning it off - while it’s an interesting idea, the orchestral vibe makes the game feel more like a battle from The Lord of the Rings than hockey.

Also a part of Cinemotion is the overall presentation of the games. The idea is to get you pumped up - the game begins with the coach addressing his players in the locker room, and then follows them out to the ice where lasers fire and lights flash. Unfortunately, the whole thing feels a little more embarrassing than it does exciting, especially since the generic coach looks more frightening than he does impelling.