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NHL 2K9


Plays great, looks terrible - must be a Wii sports game

Sadly, while the control hurdle has mostly been conquered, the visuals are seriously lacking. 2K9 looks pretty lousy by any definition, as stiff player movement, bland presentation, and ugly crowds highlight a decidedly uninspiring graphical feat. We know the Wii isn’t exactly known for its visual fidelity, but there’s no excuse for such a poor-looking affair.

A decent season and franchise mode make up the bulk of what you’ll dig into, since the pond hockey and mini-rink games are a mild and temporary diversion at best. Curiously, no online play is available, which is especially surprising considering 2K’s long history of excellence in supporting internet-based gameplay and leagues. Next year, perhaps?

As the one and only hockey title available for the Wii, NHL 2K9 is a welcome sight; it’s just too bad that it looks so darned ugly. The controls are a breath of fresh air, though, so long as you give them a chance (which we have a feeling too many people won’t). Here’s hoping this is just a foundation for a franchise that will grow into its own and not just be a one-hit wonder.

Sep 15, 2008

You'll love
  • Surprisingly fun controls
  • Innovative fighting engine
  • Lots of old-school jerseys
You'll hate
  • Third-rate visuals
  • Lousy camera angles
  • No online play

 
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The Knowledge
NHL 2K9
NHL 2K9

Genre: Sports
Release date: Sep 8, 2008
Published by: 2K Sports
Developed by: Visual Concepts
Franchise: NHL
Multiplayer Modes:
Offline
4 player VS
6 DECENT
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Latest Articles About This Game
Plays great, looks terrible - must be a Wii sports game
Wii Review  -  Sep 15, 2008