Video game review: 'NHL 09' among the best sports games

Game Title: NHL 09

Platform: PlayStation 3 (also available on Xbox 360, others)

Studio: EA Sports

Rating: E-for-Everyone

Score: 10/10

THE REVIEW:

Gameplay

I'm not really a hockey fan. I probably have a bit more experience with the sport than the average gamer (a beginners' class in college, a handful of Utah Grizzlies games and a semester of covering the BYU team for the university newspaper). But I don't follow a team, I rarely watch games and couldn't name more than a few of the most famous players. I mention this because I want everyone to understand where I'm coming from when I say that "NHL 09" is the most fun I've ever had with a sports game.

The main reason for that statement, and my score, is the game's "Be A Pro" mode. Sports games usually include a "create-a-player" option, where you form your own character, choose his attributes and place him on a team of your choice. But these modes don't do much, aside from giving a small thrill of seeing a player with your last name score a goal/touchdown/slam dunk.

"NHL 09" changes the formula by forcing you to control your player, and only your player, at all times. The camera follows you, not the puck. That includes when you get subbed out of the game and have to watch from the bench. So instead of having ultimate control over the entire team, you must be in the right place on defense, pass the puck and get open. If you're out of position, a large blue arrow will appear on the ice showing you where you should be. If you blow a defensive assignment and get scored on, the coach will let you know on the bench. In this way, the game actually teaches players how hockey should be played, and how each player fits into the team.

"Be A Pro" mode doesn't even start in the pros, though. You'll begin as a third-string player on a minor-league team, and you'll have to follow your coach's feedback to make an impression and improve your play. Eventually, you'll get called up to the NHL and work your way into the starting lineup. As you progress, you'll earn points you can spend on increasing your player's skills, like shot accuracy, checking and speed. The process is slow and arduous, but the payoff is worth it.