NHL 2K3 [X-Box]

At last, the world of hockey has been portrayed as a simulation, rather than a slugfest. Up until now EA had been the leader in hockey, delivering a game in which you often spill over into double digits. Never before has there been a game involving a stick, a puck, and a cup that tried to be realistic. Sega felt it was time for one, so they brought up their finest star from the minors, and it has packed a punch. NHL 2K3 is jam-packed with game modes such as Quick Play, Season, Playoffs, and a Franchise mode that's deeper than the Detroit Red Wings. The controls are a real advancement for all three systems. There are three difficulty levels which allow you to gradually get used to the game. EA has scored in two sections, however. The graphics are... decent, for lack of a nicer sounding insult. The sound is ferociously terrible, as two no-name announcers take you through the game. However, the newly acquired ESPN look goes five-hole and evens the score. Everything seems as though you are watching National Hockey Night. The XBox version is the only one of the three that provides online play, through XBOX Live. Unfortunately, EA has brain-washed many hockey fans so they may not realize what a good simulation looks like, but for the few that are still out there, they deserve a copy of NHL 2K3. The Final Verdict: Sega Sports comes in on a breakaway, and scores! A game that has what it takes to overcome the EA powerhouse. Mike Salerno NYYankezrlz@aol.com