NHL 13
Kids say
Based on 5 reviews
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
NHL 13
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this game.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that EA Sports NHL 13 is a sports simulation game that attempts to realistically replicate the action of the professional sport of hockey. The game requires an online account to play online as well as to update rosters and access some of the elements of the game, such as the multiplayer leagues. There is also fighting in the game, and players incur penalties by tripping, slashing, and performing dangerous hits along the boards. There are a variety of difficulty levels, so the game can be made accessible to younger players.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What’s It About?
In NHL 13, players can take on the role of manager, coach, or player and guide the team or career of the individual through the 13 modes available in the game. The game features both an online and offline component. As a career player, gamers can create and then guide a player from the low-level professional leagues up to the NHL and to an all-star career. From the coach's perspective, they can set lines and tactics while directing a team through the season. The general manager will be responsible for budgeting, drafting, and trading for players.
Is It Any Good?
NHL 13 features a new skating physics dynamic that makes the game faster and more entertaining. It also can present some challenges, especially when skating at top speed and then trying to alter the direction while handling the puck. The wealth of modes gives something to every hockey fan. EA Sports has introduced female characters in the create-a-pro mode, although female characters are still referred to as "he" by the announcers. There are a few issues, like pucks left unattended on the boards while players stand around (your player merely skates in, snags the puck, and play resumes), but overall, this is a great hockey game.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about violence in sports and the ramifications of that violence.
They can also talk about what it takes to be a professional athlete. What sacrifices must a player make to meet his or her goals?
Talk about how to stay safe when interacting online.
Families can also talk about the different roles within the professional sport arena, from the athlete up to the managers who make the decisions about player personnel and how to use those players. Giving children a bigger view of the sports world may hold value apart from merely focusing on the most visible element of sports, which is the athlete.
Game Details
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Subjects: Math: arithmetic, money, statistics, Hobbies: sports, Social Studies: the economy
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning: decision-making, Health & Fitness: fitness, Collaboration: teamwork
- Available online?: Not available online
- Publisher: EA Sports
- Release date: September 11, 2012
- Genre: Sports
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts
- ESRB rating: E10+ for Mild violence
- Last updated: August 26, 2016
Our Editors Recommend
-
Madden NFL 13
Fun football sim gets facelift and expands ways to play.
-
FIFA Street
Great soccer sim takes to the streets rather than the pitch.
-
MLB 12 The Show
Authentic baseball sim presents another strong season.
-
SSX
Extraordinarily fun, over-the-top snowboarding adventure.
-
NCAA Football 13
College football sim adds Heisman winners to the mix.
For kids who love sports and action
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate