NHL 06 [GC]

NHL 06 doesn't disappoint in another area where EA has always excelled: the graphics. The game doesn't look drastically different from last year, but everything from player models to the menu system has an extra bit of flair. This year the ice has received some extra attention and slowly deforms as players tear it up over the course of a match. The Xbox version of the game has some especially shiny surfaces, with eye-catching spray that is kicked up as players dash over the ice. This game best exemplifies the benefits of playing a title this late in the life cycle of a console. All of the visual kinks and wrinkles have been ironed out and the result is the prettiest hockey experience yet to be delivered by EA.

The commentary is acceptable with plenty of side comments and intelligent observations. The only thing holding this game back in the audio department is the return of the infamous EA Trax. With no custom soundtracks, the assortment of rowdy rock tunes will quickly wear out their welcome. The inclusion of NHL 94 on the PS2 edition of the game reminded me that I'd rather hear the organ rendition of Hava Nagila than another EA Track on repeat for the duration of a game.

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