NHL 12 similar but better then NHL 11!
Visuals:
This years game has the best and the most "crisp" graphics to date. Unlike last year there's not many parts where the game looks ugly. With some new cut scenes (but still LOTS of the old ones) this game looks better then ever! There is the occasional crowd or player member that look wierd but for the most part his game shines with presentation. 9/10
Sound:
For the past 3-4 games the soundtrack has been sort of bad. With very wierd music from some unknown bands the soundtrack doesn't really fit the game. The commentary is RIDICULOUS! For around 3 straight NHL games now the lines are EXACTLY the same. You still hear the same thing "Now the message from the coach is lets get another one! Lets get another one! Okay you want to hear it again? OK lets get another one!" This is one one of the biggest issues with these games EA takes announcers and lines and puts them in the same game over and over again. 3/10
Gameplay:
This is where this game SHINES. The gameplay has been loosened up for this years game and I don't find it as "tight" as last years which is nice. The defense is more realistic now so it isn't has easy to deke them out anymore. The goalies are also now "live" so you can check them, screen them, fight for position and more. There's also goalie fights (which EA took away then brought back and are calling it NEW lol) which are a lot of fun. I've always wanted Luongo to beat the crap out of Thomas XD. The only problem I've had is that checking seems a little awkward this game but I'll get used to it. 9.5/10
New Features:
This year's game is full of new features which make this game great! There's a new mode called "Be a Legend Mode" where you can do the same thing as Be A Pro mode except with Legends such as Gretzkey, Lemuix, and Yzerman! The only thing is all of them are locked except Roenick. This sucks but makes it interesting. Also a great addition is the Winter Classic! You can play as Pittsburgh VS Washington or any team you want. Its really fun to play outdoors with the snow flying. And finally THE JETS! The Jets are back and in this years game but with a price. NO home or away jerseys! This is stupid and we'll just have to wait for codes/patches. So far you can only use the NHL logo home/away jerseys or vintage ones (which I like better). 9/10
9/10