NHL 07 Hands on Preview

[bapenguin]

What's this? Two sports articles in a row on EvAv? Say it ain't so. Oh but it is, and IGN (http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/724/724932p1.html) takes a look at EA Sports' (http://www.easports.com) upcoming NHL game. This year...it's all about the right stick.There is a serious learning curve for the skill stick since we've been playing the same basic hockey controls since NHLPA 93 on the Genesis. Think of the right analog stick as your hockey stick. Move it right, you move the puck right. Move it left... you get the idea. Pull down to wind up for a slap shot and push up to fire at the goal. Simply let go of the stick and try to induce a defender to lay out to block a shot while you skate on by. Move left and right to deke through the defense. Move right and then roll back to the left for a 360 deke. Move left and roll up for a top shelf-backhand. The list of moves goes on and on, and this year hockey is not about canned animations -- it's about creating your own goals.

I personally can not WAIT to get my hands on this and try it out. If executed correctly this could really give NHL2k7 a run for its money.

[Franjo]

I agree Bap, this is looking wicked. 2k needs a new engine and looks dated compared to this. Can't wait to try it.

[kickmybum]

The skill stick is a great idea, although I did rather enjoy the one-timer fest that used to go on, it just wasn't realistic.

The crummy thing is this guy didn't talk about the franchise mode changes and anything else, only the skill stick.

2k7 wont be able to compete this year.

[fitbabits]

For once in a loooooong time, I'm looking forward to an EA Sports title. I'll likely rent it before buying, though, based on previous iterations, but this is looking good!

bap - Are you a Red Wings man? We need to play online some time. My Hurricanes will take you down.

Oh, and Franjo - 2K7 has a brand new engine, so I hope that makes you happy. This is what competition does - forces companies to innovate and try that bit harder. None of this exclusivity shite.

[Intruder]

My Blues will crush you all, that is as long as they don't play like they did last year. We will also be ranked at the bottom or near it, for shame.

[jwbxx]

I'm not a huge hockey fan, but this game sounds cool. Go sharks!