The Skill Stick feature, first introduced in NHL 07, has had several enhancements included in EA’s ice hockey simulation game for 2008. Another new feature is the Goalie mode, which allows players to actively control the goalie while viewing the action from a third-person perspective. A rumbling element offers a new method of communication in which the player can ask for the puck by tapping the ice with the stick. Players can build their custom players and work toward achieving those players’ goals.
This edition includes clubs from the National Hockey League (NHL), teams from other countries, and all 29 AHL teams. It also consists of the new uniforms the NHL teams wear throughout the regular season.
The game’s PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions do not have a fantasy draft. Thus players cannot build their dream team to compete in the Stanley Cup in Dynasty mode. However, both versions include the Elitserien and SM-liiga leagues from Sweden and Finland, respectively. Gary Thorne and Bill Clement have provided their insightful commentary for this edition.
