Rivals2004 is a simulation-style hockey game that clearly draws influence from gameplay elements found in both EA and Sega's NHL games.
Rivals' primary player controls, when in possession of the puck, include deke, pass, dump, and shoot buttons, while dive, stick check, body check, and player switch buttons are used when not in control of the puck.
NHLRivals2004 is most certainly geared to cater to fans of simulation hockey but lacks the cohesive gameplay of its competitors.
Rivals’ fight system is good too, actually allowing you to decide if you want to fight or avoid it completely (but let’s face it, you’ll most likely be dropping the gloves every time).
And NHLRivals 2004’s on-ice player animations are weak, with only a few basic animated moves for any player, nowhere near the total you’ll see in EA Sports’ latest offering.
Much like a NHL expansion team that does unexpectedly well in its initial campaign but doesn’t have any realistic chance of competing for even a number-eight seed playoff spot, NHLRivals2004 is a good start for Microsoft’s hockey franchise, but needs many more superstar elements to challenge its competition in the hockey game arena.
Feeds |
Contact