Visually NHL 06 looks great, but somehow does not look as brilliant as it could be. There is a lack of HD support including widescreen and the colors and textures seem to be a bit washed out which gives the game a cartoonier look as opposed to realistic. On the flip side, all the arenas are spot on, the faces are extremely well done, player models are exceptional, and the animations for shooting, checking, scoring, etc. are second to none. Even the presentation is brilliant, providing a TV style atmosphere that is sure to pump up not only the gamer, but also any onlookers who may be waiting for their turn.

The sounds in NHL 06 are much like the animations, nobody does it better. You can hear the puck hit the ice, clashing of sticks, shaving of the ice off the skates, grunts, groans, hard hitting checks, and the real time crowd reactions all brought to you in glorious Dolby Digital. What sets NHL 06 apart from the rest is the absolutely brilliant play by play. Yes the team is the same as previous years, but I’ll be damned if they don’t get you excited about playing this game.

Game play is the key to any good hockey game. EA has finally given gamers the controls reminiscent of old school EA hockey titles, with a touch of innovation and creation. They have brought some new ideas and features to the table such as the new Skill Stick option. Now you can deke, shoot, and score like never before just with the tap of your right analog stick and picking your spot. You now can perform brilliant signature shots or unleash an arsenal of moves that allow you to take control of every opportunity. The game’s physics system allows the puck to be as unpredictable as in real life. No more canned animations or shots here, the puck is alive and ready to wreak havoc on gamers everywhere. The game’s realism is also helped along by a momentum system that allows for a skater’s size and speed to affect how they handle on the ice. Even checking has given a shot of realism, so while fans of the Hitz series may be disappointed, it is refreshing to see only the big checks come as they would in a real game. Top all of this off with a solid A.I. that seems to adjust to your level of determination, aggression, and skill.

There is plenty to do in NHL 06, from your typical exhibition, to dynasty, and even online games and tourneys will keep you busy for at least another year. EA’s Creation Zone gives you the freedom to create your own player (which is very detailed much like the Tiger Woods create-a-player), team, or edit any player in the league.

EA has laced up their skates this year and is ready to put a big hit on anyone willing to get in their way. It is nice to see EA step up their game this year and be competitive instead of the alternative… if you get my meaning. NHL 06 is as good as it gets in console hockey, and while the competition, I’m sure is fierce as well, this is no longer a one man race, EA’s NHL is back and much like the real NHL, we missed you.