Gretzky NHL Review - PSP

Hockey and handhelds have traditionally gone as well together as Michael Jackson and reality, so fans are understandably dubious whenever a new portable hockey game is released. Yet the sleek PSP is different than previous systems, with the technology to deliver a sense of realism unattainable by the antiquated Game Boy Advance. Gretzky NHL is not only the first hockey game on PSP, but also the first to feature 3D graphics, a huge step up for those looking for a skate-worthy experience on the small screen. Having the Great One on the cover certainly doesn’t hurt, either, right?

Wayne’s World

Gretzky NHL is more like the legendary Wayne Gretzky than you’d initially expect, but it’s Gretzky circa 2005 rather than the Wayne of yore. In other words, it’s rusty. There are lengthy loading times before each game. The controls are imprecise. The graphics run inconsistently and animation is choppy. Computer-controlled players behave more like the Hanson brothers than the Stanley brothers (re: march to their own drummer), and the variety in play modes is lacking. Even the unlockable “goodies” you can earn by completing certain milestones are disappointing, with the majority being classic jerseys. Huzzah.

Looks Can Be Deceiving

The game isn’t a complete disappointment, however. The on-ice graphics are crisp and vibrant, and the camera will pan and zoom to simulate a television-style broadcast complete with stat overlays. The arena “fans” are little more than paper-thin cutouts, but most players will find the graphics to be a high point, especially for the first hockey game released on the system. The music and sound effects go a long way to create some atmosphere, with organ music, a PA announcer, and the requisite “oohs” and “ahhs” from the crowd whenever you take a shot on goal.

Regret-zky

While the presentation is PSP-worthy, the gameplay isn’t. The default “nub” control makes it hard to guide players where you want them too, especially when trying to land a check or two on defense. Digital control is available, but that also feels inadequate, as puck handling feels too loose, and too inaccurate to make you want to grind out an abbreviated 29-game season, much less a full 82 games. Unless you absolutely have to have hockey on PSP, you’re better off waiting to see what Electronic Arts has in store with its own series. If you can survive an entire NHL season being cancelled, you certainly have the patience to wait for a better game.