What could Electronic Arts possibly do for an encore to its NHLpa Hockey '93? That Genesis simulation had all the features of Nhl Hockey, plus a player's license, battery backup. While casual hockey players who own the '93 version may not need to upgrade, hard-core fans will definitely want to grab NHL '94. The 72 musical pieces include standards like "Charge!," as well as regional favorites like "When the Saints Go Marching In" in St. The sounds of a hockey arena are brilliantly recreated with enhanced realism in crowd cheers and new-and-improved pipe organ music leading the home team. Plus, the instant replay has also been improved, enabling you to select the reverse angle for a different point of view. (Spectators now walk down the aisles.) There are added player animations, too, such as the goalie slamming his stick in frustration. NHL's traditionally superb graphics look better than ever. Icing won't be called if you're short-handed, and the passes are harder to intercept. To kill an opponent's power play, clear the puck with flip passes.During a power play, skate around the corners until you see a teammate near or in front of the goal, but away from the goalie's view.Players can still be injured for a period or an entire game. However, there are some harder hits that'll knock your skates off and push opponents right out of the rink. NHL '94's biggest flaw is the removal of blood and fighting, due to NHL regulations. Hitting Hard But Hardly HittingĮver been watching a fight and a hockey game suddenly breaks out? Well, that won't happen here. Fortunately, the computer is a bit harder in '94, especially since it can mirror your shooting moves and learn from your consistencies. The previous NHL Hockey games were definitely too easy to beat in the one-player mode. You can now flip passes, arching the puck high above the ice, and shoot One- Timers, which are quick, one- touch shots at goal straight from the pass. This installment preserves all of the best moves from previous versions and adds some great new ones as well. This latest-in-the-series has added a goalie-control option to perform glove and stick saves, dives, kick-outs, and even goalie movement out of the crease. Don't leave the net open, though.ĮA has also finally figured out that a defense is only as good as its goalie. For a guaranteed takedown, use your goalie to check the puck handler.