E3 2002: NHL 2003 details

Electronic Arts is showing off the latest version of its long-running NHL franchise here at E3, and we took the game for a spin. The primary gameplay addition that the EA Sports representative pointed out is the dynamic deke. In last year's game, you could press and hold the deke button and switch the puck from the forehand to the backhand before firing off a shot. In this year's game, the movement of the puck while holding the button is much more profound. Players will be able to drag the puck and then quickly slide it between their legs or hold the puck to one side of their body before popping it through their legs and across their body to the other side for a shot.

The game also includes a gamebreaker feature. As you check, pass, and shoot, the gamebreaker meter gradually increases. When it reaches its hilt, your players will have enhanced abilities. Other additions to the gameplay that were found in last year's game like the breakaway cam and gamestory have returned, and the overall gameplay speed has been bumped up a notch to better reflect the brisk pace of a real NHL game.

NHL 2003 looks basically the same as last year's game, with little to no improvements. The frame rates stay the course even while skating past the bench, which helps to preserve the speed of the game. We'll have more on NHL 2003 when we receive a playable build.