One heck of an improvement over NHL 2003.

User Rating: 8.5 | NHL 2004 GC
By *KevinDang0 | Review Date:
Back in 2003, many EA Hockey fans were left disappointed with NHL 2003, which was completely outclassed by 2K's NHL 2K3. This time around, the competition between EA and 2K was a lot closer, with NHL 2004, which is in my opinion, the best hockey game ever made. Many say that this game was barely beaten out by NHL 2K4, but I disagree.

The gameplay is 425,046,524 times smoother than NHL 2003's in my opinion. The deking feels less clunky, and shooting feels more crisp, and faster. The new Bruise Control is a welcome addition, allowing you to give out big hits. But, the new feature that steals the show is Dynasty Mode. You are a GM of a team of your choice, and you have to play through 20 (yes, 20) seasons. Lengthy, but enjoyable.
The graphics are more realistic, and the player's faces look closer to their real-life counterparts than the earlier EA Hockey games. The FPS is incredibly solid, and will be at 60 FPS pretty much 99% of the time.
The music is mostly rock, with guitar riffs, and stuff. I'm a fan of rock, so I do enjoy this soundtrack. That is really all I can say about the sound.
The replay value is pretty decent with Dynasty Mode, and such, but don't expect to complete Dynasty in a day, even with simulation.

Other Helpful Reviews for NHL 2004

  • Rating:8.8

    Good fun game

    By Agriath | Review Date: Jul 12, 2006 | GC

    Good: Dynasty mode is good fun, Improved graphics over '03, Bruise control makes it all the more fun to drive oppenants through the glass Bad: Goalies are stupid, ex: if a puck is sitting infront of them (1-2 feet) ... Read Full Review

    1 of 1 users found the following review helpful
  • Rating:9

    NHL 2004 is awesome

    By dairy_farm | Review Date: Nov 01, 2007 | GC

    i like to play nhl04. it is a very fun game. i play it almost everyday. the new dynasty mode is very fun. um since i have already had it for about four years now i have become very good at it. even with the worst team i ... Read Full Review

    0 of 0 users found the following review helpful
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