The hockey games genre has been conquered by EA, with 31 installments in theNHL video game seriessince 1991.
Even2Kproduced some notableNHLgames, such asNHL 2K11.
NHL 2011
NHL 2011paved a new path for the series withNHL Ultimate Team.
With games likeFIFAandMaddenalready having anUltimate Teammode, it was about timeNHLhad one.
TheNHL Ultimate Teamor also known in short asHUTallowed players to build their very own team.
Players would then face off against one another in online matches and climb theHUTranks.
This opened a whole new aspect to grindingNHLgames and is a huge reason for the game’s popularity today.
Mechanically,NHL 2011revolutionized how we played the game today with its revolutionary physics-based game engine.
New features such as the hip-check would send players hurling over one another.
Skill plays were more successful and easier pulled off using the right joystick in charge for stickhandling and dekeing.
The arcade-style 3-on-3 hockey game had no rules, no penalties just chaotic action-packed plays.
It takes an exaggerated approach to back and forth hockey, that never really lost its entertainment value.
NHL 2004
A big part ofNHL 2004’ssuccess is credited to the improvementsEAmade to the Dynasty mode.
It gave a more realistic feeling to becoming a GM and carrying your team to the Stanley Cup.
This was also the first time that anNHLgame had added a cutscene after winning the Stanley Cup.
TheNHL 2004soundtrack is widely viewed as the best soundtrack across all the games in the series.
All these features madeNHL 2004stand out and make a top three podium finish on this list.
Modders have been updating the original game for PC just about every year since it came out.
NHL 2014
NHL 2014is widely regarded as the last good-runningNHLgame for a good list of reasons.
The game implemented one-touch dekes, which were easier to execute and flashier when successfully done.
TheLive the Lifemode also simulated events for your pro player off the ice.
Media interviews, fan interactions, and endorsements offered a more dynamic role-playing experience in playing your career out.
A big part of the game’s success is due to adding online seasons toHUTandEA SHLmodes.
This has now trickled to today where there are professional leagues and gamers for onlineNHLgames.
Gamers could also playNHL ‘94with theNHL ‘94 Anniversary modefor the game’s 20th anniversary.
For me, it’s an easy choice that NHL'94 takes the top podium spot.
Even back in 2005, IGN named it #47 in its list of top 100 games of all-time.
That is to just mention one award from an impressively long list.
The added game modes and mechanics that madeNHL ‘94stand out in its time may be a little outdated today.
Despite this, players never seem to lose their enjoyment.
There is an undying love for this game with tons of communities that still hold events.
Looking for more top 5 sports lists?
