Seldom do we get hockey games on mobile platforms, so the release of 2K Sports' NHL 2K11 is a much welcome addition to the App Store. With serviceable graphics, fun gameplay and in-depth realism, it's easily one of the most entertaining sports games on the iPhone.
Let's start with the shortcomings. Most noticeable here are the unpolished graphics (nothing horrible but the resolution is blocky at best), lacking commentary and a sometimes questionable AI. None of the above are really deal-breakers, since the game is so good even with those deficiencies.
Controls consist of an analog stick for player movement and three onscreen buttons for a variety of in-game actions . Strength of passes and shots are determined by how long you hold down the corresponding buttons. Actions of the buttons will sometimes depend on your position relative to other players, so the body check button can deliver either a simple poke or a hard body check. All the controls work well, adding plenty of depth and strategy to the way you play the game.
Possibly the best thing in NHL 2K11 is the amount of options, which rival what you can find in an actual home console title. You can change a load of things, such as difficulty, camera angles, in-game rules and a whole lot more. Considering this is the franchise's first iPhone game, it's mighty impressive.
You can play quick games or a season mode. For the latter, it works like a real console game, complete with the ability to load entirely new rosters, make trades, enforce salary caps and fiddle with other off-court factors.
If you've ever hankered for a hockey game on the iPhone, 2K Sports NHL 2K11 is easily the best one available. It's a veritable bargain too, priced at only $1.99.
[2KSports]
