NHL 07 - Xbox

NHL from EA is back for another year, loaded with new features and additional game modes. Feel the chill of the ice and the warmth - or otherwise - of the welcoming crowd as you assume the role of a toothless Canadian ball of frustration (with stick). NHL 07's big new selling point is that you can take control of every movement on the ice with the revolutionary new Skill Stick system. The intuitive gameplay scheme delivers an unparalleled sense of on-ice speed and control as you direct virtually every player's movement. Using the left stick to direct your lower body and the right stick to control the upper half, you attain a level of fluidity comparable only to the real thing. Talking of the real thing, NHL 07 features player-specific behaviour, with in-game players acting just like their real-life counterparts. Six different player types include Danglers, Playmakers and Snipers.

Dynasty Mode lets you take on the role of General Manager and the responsibility of coach and player of your own NHL franchise for a maximum of 10 seasons. The challenge is to live up to - or even surpass - your owner's expectations by increasing profits, capturing division and conference titles and ultimately winning the Stanley Cup. As GM, you're also responsible for team chemistry, acquisition of players, and salary negotiations.

NHL 07's got the lot: Elite Leagues from Europe and a selection of multiplayer modes in addition to the aforementioned features just increases the game's appeal. You can finally consign last year's NHL model to the bargain bin - NHL 07 sweeps the ice and all that comes before it. more