Sim and arcade fans alike will love EA Sports' latest.
The graphics for NHL 14 couldn't be better. There are times that the game slows down a bit, or runs into a player model who looks less realistic than usual, but the overall ebb and flow of the game remains intact, and the replays are a knockout to watch. Likewise, the in-game arena music has its moments – there are some good EA Trax choices this time around – and the sound effects couldn't be any more hockey-like if the team tried. I just wish they would do something about the commentary. It's not really annoying, just repetitive and in need of refreshing.
While EA Sports still has yet to make the "ultimate" hockey game for its fans, NHL 14 is a step in the right direction, thanks to strong gameplay, a multitude of extras for sim and arcade fans alike, and a mostly decent presentation. If you're a fan of the sport, you shouldn't be without this. Besides, what else are you going to play, NHL 2K5?
(Review copy provided by EA Sports.)
Score: 8.5 / 10
