NHL 2K9 (E10+)

Realistic hockey game with cool Wii controls.

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details

Publisher: 2K Sports
Genre: Video Games - Sports
Release Date: 09/8//008
Online Enabled: Yes
ESRB Rating: E10+
ESRB Explanation: Lyrics, Mild Violence
Price: $59.99

Parents need to know

Parents need to know that this is a near-authentic pro hockey simulation, right down to the violent hits and fighting. Engaging in brawls is handled randomly, therefore isn't as easy to execute. Also, you're always punished by a 5-minute penalty. With the Wii controls, you'll actually use a punching motion with the remote to fight. The game for PS3 and Xbox 360 is playable online, a feature Common Sense Media doesn't recommend for kids under age 12.

Families can talk about how the game compares to its real-life counterpart. How close is this to the real thing? Also, should something be done to limit the amount of fighting in the sport?

Message
Violence
Sex
Language

Message

Social Behavior:

As in real hockey, players take their frustration out against other players by fighting.

Consumerism:

Ads are plastered along the boards of the ice rink, mostly from hockey-based sponsors like Easton or Koho.

Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:

Educational Value:

The game is a great way to learn the rules and strategy of hockey.

Violence

As in real life, this hockey is very physical. Players gain advantage by executing big hits on opponents. Fighting is also available in the game. With the Wii, players can actually punch using the remote. However, engaging in a fight is tough to do and results in a major penalty.

Sex

Language

Common Sense says

What's the story?

Reviewed by Brett Molina

The Wii remote has doubled as a tennis racket, baseball bat, and golf club. You can now add hockey stick to the list. For the first time, the NHL joins the Wii with the release of NHL 2K9, a satisfying hockey simulation in need of a little more polish.

The key change from previous years is the franchise's debut on the Wii. Using flicks of the wrist, players fire off slapshots and perform defensive moves with the remote. Another adjustment across all platforms is an emphasis on simplifying gameplay. Players can stick to two or three buttons maximum if they prefer, or can adjust to a more complex control scheme.

Is it any good?

Other than changes to controls, the franchise doesn't add anything incredibly compelling. Players can drive the Zamboni in between periods in a briefly entertaining mini-game. The online component on the PS3 and 360 has been fleshed out to include games with only human competitors and a film feature so you can record, edit, and save highlights.

The presentation now resembles a television broadcast with sideline reporters and post-game highlights. While the PS3 and 360 visuals pack a solid punch, the Wii looks too gritty. Distinguishing jersey and facial details is much harder to do, which is a key component for a game aiming to create a lifelike experience. Overall, NHL 2K9 is still enjoyable, but could use a touch more refining.