True Performance Skating, Hockey IQ and total control Goalies are all new enhancements for the newest version of NHL 13, and nearly all of them work flawlessly. True Performance Skating gives a more realistic control of your players with a looser puck, better start, go and slides for your skater and more, but some of the controls still feel a bit wacky and out of place in a game pushing for realism. The new Goalie controls work in nearly the same manner with these net protectors leaving their posts for too long all too often and the new controls leaving your goal tenders in some awkward and bizarre positions that aren't always true to real life. Hockey IQ does a great job of making players smarter and play better team offense and defense that fans of the game are sure to love.
EA Sports has overhauled the rest of NHL 13's presentation this year as well. The game's graphics have been nearly completely redone. Lighting effects are more realistic than ever before as ice sprays across the ice when making a stop, and shadows accurately reflect a player's movements. In addition, players now have more facial expressions than ever before to better portray reactions to big hits, made goals or blown defenses. The stadiums have all received upgrades as well including ice that actually receives wear over time, beautiful outdoor stadiums and authentic broadcasts with the crew that does it best. Still, the crowds could use a bit more polish as with any other EA Sports title. All in all, the game gets a passing grade on an above average presentation.
Of course, NHL 13 gives you plenty of ways to experience their new game including GM Connected mode allows gamers to play as a general manager or player and will their way to victories in a fictional season. The mode is a lot of fun, and subtle changes to the classic formula may mean little to most gamers but will have fans of the series jumping for joy. Hockey Ultimate Team plays out similar to a NHL fantasy draft but with the opening and distributing of packs of cards determining what players you'll be allowed to use on your Hockey Ultimate Team. You can unlock more packs by winning Hockey Ultimate Team games or completing NHL Moments Live challenges, then you can buy, sell and trade your cards that you don't need or want. Speaking of NHL Moments Live, the mode does more than simply allow you to earn in-game currency to spend on Hockey Ultimate Team packs. The new mode is all about completing famous moments from the NHL's past including some pretty historic moments from last year's season. The challenges are a great way to keep your skills up while earning some bonus Pucks, and the mode will receive new challenges throughout the season to allow you to earn even more cash.
If you're looking to get some new NHL action, well, you probably have no other choice than to purchase NHL 13. Still, things could be a lot worse; at least you're receiving a high quality game for your hard earned cash. The game has some minor bumps and screwups, but it is an overall great game that will make a nice addition to your growing sports game collection. There is so much new content crammed into the game, we couldn't have possibly covered it all in a single review, but trust us when we say you'll always have something fun and new to explore in the game. NHL 13 is a great looking game that plays great and delivers action that hockey fans deserve. If you're a fan of the sport, don't hesitate to pick up NHL 13 today!
NHL 13 is now available from all major retailers for the MSRP of $59.99 and can be purchased for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. NHL 13 is rated E by the ESRB for Mild Violence. For more information on the game, check out the official NHL 13 website.
Game Information:
Developer: Electronic Arts
Publisher: EA Canada
Platforms: Xbox 360 & PlayStation 3 (reviewed)
Release Date: September 11, 2012
