NHL 98

NHL 98

NHL 98 is the sequel to the hockey simulation game, published by EA Sports for the SNES, released in 1997, and it is the final NHL game released on the SNES. You control a team, playing a full game of ice hockey with a top-down perspective, with a focus on passing, shooting, and checking, using a control scheme that emphasizes strategy and timing.

The gameplay involves using the D-pad and buttons to move your players, pass, shoot, and check, with a variety of offensive and defensive strategies to employ, and you can also control the goalie to make saves. A unique feature is the "updated" content – the game features updated rosters for the 1997 season, improved graphics, and new gameplay mechanics, including a new "playbook" system and improved AI, providing a more polished and realistic hockey experience. The game includes a season mode with standings and playoffs, and a two-player mode for head-to-head competition.

The graphics are improved over the previous games, with more detailed player sprites and backgrounds, and the music is upbeat and energetic, with a sports-style theme and catchy tunes. Critics praised the updated rosters and the improved gameplay, making it a solid final entry in the NHL series on the SNES. It supports two players. NHL 98 is a fun and engaging hockey game that offers a great sporting experience.