bit-tech Shopping: Electronic Arts NHL 07 (PSP)

Rating: 8

Time with product: 1 Year

Strengths: Entertaining fast paced action

Weaknesses: The controls can be a bit stiff

Summary: Since EA has decided to not release any new NHL games to the PSP this game is the best option available for hockey fans. The game features fast-moving hockey that favors arcade over simulation. However due to the controls it is a bit difficult to score at will so games against the computer tend to be close (at least for me). One of the biggest quirks of the game is the inability to alter options mid-game since it is standard with the console versions of this series. You also cannot track stats during the game. Despite the flaws this is the best hockey game on the PSP even if it is due to a lack of competition and sequels.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 3

Strengths: Fluid gameplay, graphics, depth of franchise mode

Weaknesses: None

Summary: If you are a hockey fan, you must own this game. NHL 07 was the last hockey game released for the PSP. The rosters may be getting a little outdated, but you can create players like Evgeni Malkin. With the exception of NHL 08 for the PS3, this is the best hockey game that I have played since NHL 94 on the Genesis.

Rating: 6

Time with product:

Strengths: Quick gameplay, plenty of options (before starting a game), hey, it's hockey!

Weaknesses: Unable to alter options mid-game. Need software update from EA on PSP.

Summary: I have been a fan of EA's NHL hockey franchise for years and this installment (albeit old) is mostly a "win". Where it lacks is: It's old, come on EA -- the PSP is still viable!, you can't alter options mid-game, you can't change around lines (at least, not in the modes that I have played so far) -- specifically, you can't change the goalie. While it is understood that this is a hand held game, these basic options should be available (again, maybe they are in other modes).Where it excels: Hockey on the go -- really, you can't beat that! The graphics are decent, not great, but decent (my expectations aren't all that high for a hand held device, so, your mileage may vary). The gameplay is very similar to a console or PC platform; missing the right analog stick which is a PSP deficiency, not the games' issue.Overall, this is one of the games why I bought a PSP (you can't get this on a DS) and I'm happy to have found a copy of it! For me, a must-have for the PSP. I only give it 3 starts, however, due to the lack of being able to change goalies / lines mid-game.