NHL 2K9 is 2K Sports’ entry into the 2008-2009 hockey gaming season. Season, Franchise, 2-on-2 Mini Rink, 4-on-4 Pond Hockey, and Shootout modes are included in the game, built on the same engine as many prior 2K hockey games. Season Mode lets you assume essential management of an NHL team and steer them through a complete 82-game calendar and the playoffs (if you’re good enough). The franchise is similar to Season Mode but much more in-depth. You manage options such as drafting, contract signings, free agency, and employing staff as you lead a team over numerous hockey seasons. The 2-on-2 and 4-on4 modes let you and a friend assemble a group of three or five players (depending on the mode) and compete in a wide-open, arcade-style hockey game. The shootout operates like a real-life shootout: three skaters from each team alternate, taking shots at the goaltender, and the team with the most goals wins. Aside from game options, you can create your player or squad from scratch and tweak the existing roster (e.g., make trades, edit line combinations) to your liking.
NHL 2K9 is the first NHL Sports game for the Wii. Motion controls are available for shooting, passing, checking, and even fighting in the Wii edition. There’s also a new mechanism for people who want to control the goalkeeper, which entails mirroring controller motions as they appear on the screen to make saves.
Online play is available on the PS3 and XBOX 360 versions, allowing you to get into a quick game with up to 11 other players or engage in online leagues or tournaments.
Bob Cole and Harry Neal have been replaced in the broadcast booth by Randy Hann and Drew Remenda of the San Jose Sharks. The soundtrack consists primarily of explosive rock compositions by artists like The Offspring, Bad Religion, and Mastodon.
