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                    NHL 
                    2K6 is the latest instalment in the ice hockey series 
                    from 2K Sport. This isn't going to go down in the UK as well 
                    as in the USA - mainly because ice hockey doesn't appeal to 
                    that many people over here. That's probably why the US price 
                    tag of $20 (about £11.50) has rocketed up to £30 
                    for the UK release. 
                  I 
                    have to confess to not being the world's greatest expert on 
                    hockey - I've watched a fair few games, and I know the rules, 
                    but that's about it. I'm certainly not up on all of the players 
                    names. 
                  As 
                    is usual for review games, we received no instruction on how 
                    to play this game - something that is really essential for 
                    this release as there are so many different elements and gaming 
                    modes to get your head around. 
                  The 
                    "ProControl" system let's you take command of the 
                    offensive zone with tape-to-tape icon passing, behind the 
                    net plays and precision give-and-go attacks. Display your 
                    raw aggression to maximise the Enforcer System and throw opponents 
                    off their game. The game features all-new presentation elements, 
                    cut-scenes, and commentary from legendary broadcast team Bob 
                    Cole and Harry Neale. 
                  It 
                    won't take you long will long to dominate the ice with NHL 
                    calibre goaltending, skating, checking and puck handling with 
                    the deeply enhanced animation system. Strong and aggressive 
                    play from the bigger, beefier players on your team increases 
                    your "Enforcer System" rating, throwing opponents 
                    off their game by bringing out your checking line.  
                  The 
                    "On-The-Fly" coaching features enable you to play 
                    your style of hockey at both ends of the ice by calling team 
                    strategy during the action. And if you want to take the goalie's 
                    job, the "Maximum Goaltending" option allows you 
                    to take matters into your own hands by swapping into the cage 
                    and using the right analogue stick to make quick, intuitive 
                    saves when it counts the most.  
                  The 
                    overall presentation of the game has improved considerably, 
                    with a fully 3D crowd, the latest player/team stats and highly 
                    realistic NHL arenas enhancing the experience. 
                  If 
                    you are a true hockey nut then you'll lap this up - although 
                    I don't think that the upgrades, as impressive as they are, 
                    are worth spending £30 on. If this was £11.50 
                    then I'd recommend it like a shot.  
                     
                   
                  Nick 
                    Smithson  
                  
                     
                       
                        
                           
                             
                               
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                               £24.99 
                                (Amazon.co.uk) 
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                            £24.99 
                              (Blahdvd.com) | 
                           
                           
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                            £25.95 
                              (Foxy.co.uk) | 
                           
                           
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                            £26.97 
                              (Gameseek.co.uk) | 
                           
                         
                        All prices correct at time of going to press.  
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