Summary
- Release Year: 2011
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: EA Canada
- Publishers: EA Sports
NHL 12 (2011): A Deep Dive
NHL 12 is an ice hockey video game developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports. It was released on September 13, 2011, for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The game features Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning on the cover.
NHL 12 introduces a number of new features and improvements over its predecessor, NHL 11. These include:
- True Performance Skating: A new skating engine that provides more realistic and fluid player movement.
- Total Control Puck: A new puck-handling system that gives players more control over the puck, allowing for more creative and skillful plays.
- Hockey I.Q.: A new AI system that makes the computer-controlled players smarter and more challenging to play against.
- Be a Pro Mode: A revamped Be a Pro mode that allows players to create their own player and take them through a full NHL career.
- GM Connected: A new online mode that allows players to create and manage their own NHL teams.
NHL 12 also includes a number of new gameplay modes, including:
- Winter Classic: A new mode that allows players to play as one of the two teams featured in the annual NHL Winter Classic outdoor game.
- Shootout Mode: A new mode that allows players to practice their shootout skills against the computer or a friend.
- Online Team Play: A new mode that allows players to team up with friends online and play against other teams.
Gameplay
NHL 12’s gameplay is fast-paced and exciting, with a focus on realism and skill. The new True Performance Skating engine provides fluid and realistic player movement, and the Total Control Puck system gives players more control over the puck than ever before.
The AI in NHL 12 is also top-notch, with computer-controlled players making smart decisions and playing aggressively. This makes for a challenging and rewarding gameplay experience, whether you’re playing against the computer or online against other players.
Modes
NHL 12 features a wide variety of game modes, including:
- Be a Pro: Create your own player and take them through a full NHL career. You’ll start out in the minors and work your way up to the NHL, earning points and improving your skills along the way.
- GM Connected: Create and manage your own NHL team. You’ll be responsible for everything from drafting players to setting ticket prices. You can also play online against other players in GM Connected mode.
- Season Mode: Play through a full NHL season with your favorite team. You’ll compete for the Stanley Cup and try to lead your team to victory.
- Play Now: Play a single game against the computer or a friend. You can choose from any of the NHL teams and play in any of the NHL arenas.
- Winter Classic: Play as one of the two teams featured in the annual NHL Winter Classic outdoor game.
- Shootout Mode: Practice your shootout skills against the computer or a friend.
- Online Team Play: Team up with friends online and play against other teams.
Graphics and Presentation
NHL 12 features impressive graphics and presentation. The player models are detailed and realistic, and the arenas are accurately recreated. The game also features a new commentary team of Gary Thorne and Bill Clement.
Conclusion
NHL 12 is a great hockey game that offers a deep and rewarding gameplay experience. The new True Performance Skating engine, Total Control Puck system, and Hockey I.Q. AI system all contribute to a realistic and challenging gameplay experience. The game also features a wide variety of game modes, including Be a Pro, GM Connected, and Season Mode. Whether you’re a casual hockey fan or a hardcore gamer, NHL 12 is a must-play.
Score
9/10
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
