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NHL 2K10

(2009, Video Games - Sports, Rated E10+, Play it on: PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Simple hockey sim, best for newbies -- watch open chat.

In this game kids can:   improve hand-eye coordination, play in a virtual world

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 10–12

The good stuff

  • Ease of play:

    Controls are relatively simple. Players move with the left thumbstick, while manipulating shots, passes and other stickhandling moves with the face buttons. Players can use those same buttons on defenses to poke away the puck or deliver body checks.

  • Educational value:

    The game is a great way to learn the sport's strategies and terminology.

  • Messages:

    The game focuses on recreating the pro hockey experience and shows what it is like to play. Brawls are a part of the gameplay but as in real hockey, they result in penalties.

  • Role models:

    Some players can engage in fights, although the practice is penalized severely.
 

What to watch out for

  • Online interaction:

    Online  games include open chat. These interactions can contain language that parents would prefer their kids not hear.

  • Violence:

    As in real life, players are seen slamming opponents into the boards to take the puck. In some instances, players can get into a fight, although no blood or graphic detail is shown. There are often stiff consequences for starting fights.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    There are some hockey sponsors whose logos are shown on the boards, or on arena billboards.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

This review of NHL 2K10 was written by Brett Molina

Parents need to know NHL 2K10 is a straightforward simulation of professional hockey. With that, of course, comes some physical play such as checking players into boards or even starting brawls. However, the game doesn't show blood. The game is also playable online with open chat, a feature Common Sense Media does not recommend to children under the age of 12.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • How does hockey compare to other sports such as football or baseball? What makes it better or worse?
  • Did you learn anything about the real game of hockey by playing this game?
Did this review help you decide?
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More on NHL 2K10

What’s the Story?

NHL 2K10 is a simulation of the National Hockey League, with multiple approaches to playing. Players can guide any one of the NHL teams throughout a season or career in Franchise Mode. Players can also create their own players and teams to use both offline and online. For those seeking a more casual approach, the game includes a handful of simple mini-games such as Pond Hockey and a Mini-Rink challenge. Close

Is It Any Good?

Although NHL 2K10 delivers a more accessible experience compared to its competitors, the game falls short in creating a truly authentic pro hockey experience.  One of the major issues revolve around computer-controlled players, particularly defensemen. They're not very aggressive, leading to a fast-paced game filled with odd-man breakaways. For the novice, this is a great environment to adjust to the game. However, veteran players might find this frustrating. The game has made some strides graphically compared to last year, sporting players with greater physical details and loud, vibrant arenas.

Another way the game is welcoming to rookies is the inclusion of simple, casual challenges such as Pond Hockey and Mini-Rink. They're often high-scoring affairs that allow players to kick back and enjoy the sport. The game also attempts to incorporate a Pro Stick, where players can handle the puck using the right thumbstick.  It's a solid addition but doesn't offer as much freedom as its main rival, EA's NHL 10.  Overall, NHL 2K10 is a solid introduction to the world of video game hockey, and a good choice for players new to playing hockey video games.

Close

Publisher’s Details

Released on 9/15/2009, price $59.99, online enabled
ESRB rating: E10+ (for Mild Violence)

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