NHL Hitz Pro - PS2

Possibly the closest rival to EA's ice hockey series, Midway's NHL Hitz has always enjoyed a fair amount of popularity, thanks largely to its extreme, over-the-top take on the sport. Developed by new guys Next Level, NHL Hitz Pro is the third outing for the series, delivering the same high-speed, adrenaline-style hockey action, complete with a host of new features and, more importantly, 5-on-5 gameplay with realistic rules.

One of the main updates is a new Franchise mode. In similar vein to what EA have been doing of late, NHL Hitz Pro includes a GM mode, which lets you build a dynasty and manage every aspect of your team. As such, you get to draft and trade players, choose the offensive strategy, and plot the perfect defensive scheme to prevent other teams from abusing your squad. Once you've created your perfect strategy, you then get the say of who starts and who gets left behind on the ice.

Also new to the proceedings is a redesigned Hockey School mode, which teaches you and tests you on a wide range of skills. NHL star coach Scotty Bowman returns to coach you through the game and also congratulate you on successes earned throughout the Hockey School. The guy also introduces you to a young NHL All-Star to tell you a little more about what is important in hockey, as well as provide NHL Hitz game tips.

Obviously, the customary multiplayer mode is in there, allowing you to face-off against one of your mates, although this time you also have the opportunity do it with a complete stranger, over the good old Internet, thanks to the game's Network Adaptor support.

NHL Hitz Pro features all the teams, all the games and all the stadiums of America's National Hockey League. Pretty much all you could want, really.
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