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Review of NHL FaceOff 99 on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Sep 1998
Cover image of NHL FaceOff 99 on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 30 Sep 1998
Genre: Sports
Developer: Killer Game
Publisher: 989 Studios, Sony Computer Entertainment

Introduction

Nothing says a thrilling night like sliding across an icy rink, anticipating the thrilling prospect of scoring a goal while simultaneously managing a severe case of frostbite! Welcome to my exploration of 'NHL FaceOff 99,' where we'll deeply dive into the glorious world of pixelated ice hockey and discuss the not-so-dramatic story arcs of the characters, who, let's face it, are just there to hit each other wearing oversized jerseys! Grab your pucks and prepare for a slap shot of nostalgia!

Gameplay

NHL FaceOff 99 isn't just about cramming a bunch of skaters on thin ice and letting them go wild (though that's half the fun!). Let's break down the gameplay: you have your iconic teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks featuring Chris Chelios, who probably should have won an Oscar for his representation on the cover art. The controls are robust enough for entry-level enthusiasts, but don't expect to pull off triple-deke goals with the finesse of Patrick Kane. It's more about slashing and crashing than scorekeeping and precision, which makes it perfect for casual couch competitions where the only 'goal' is to out-fun your friends. The game does allow for both single-player and multiplayer modes, which can lead to endless hours of glorious fights over who is the actual king of the ice! The game's options ship you straight into action. You can choose exhibition matches, full seasons, playoff tournaments, and make-believe trades with fellow couch members, who are probably also fanatics of wearing matching jerseys (totally normal). AI opponents vary in difficulty, from the hilariously inept to the sneaky sly, effortlessly making you question your skills. And if you ever need to vent your frustrations, pull off a great body check-just remember not to try this at your next friendly game of shinny!

Graphics

Before we dive into the swirling mists of nostalgia, let's talk graphics. NHL FaceOff 99 is drenched in the late-'90s charm, featuring pixelated players that look like they just escaped from a 16-bit wonderland. The rink is adequately designed, even if the players move about as gracefully as my great aunt trying to skateboard. But hey, if you squint just right-or open your imagination wide-you can almost see the resemblance to the actual players. The color palette is vibrant, almost like a crayon box exploded on the ice. And don't get me started on the animations; they're more like short clips of disjointed movement rather than smooth ballet, but that's the beauty of vintage gaming! It has that homey feel of barely passable graphics with a side of premature nostalgia.

Conclusion

In the grand scheme of gaming history, NHL FaceOff 99 may not be knocking on the doors of the Hall of Fame, but it certainly has its charm. It caters to sports enthusiasts and casual gamers alike, offering a bloody ice battlefield filled with bodychecks and improbable last-minute goals. The character arcs are as exciting as the extensive roster of players you can control-maybe not groundbreaking, but it's pure fun! With a heavy dose of laughs, competitive humor, and a blanket of (not-so-great) graphics, this is a title that is heavier on camaraderie than sheer skill. So gear up, slide on those skates, and prepare for awkward body checks. The true adventure lies in the laughs you share with friends-and the occasional argument over who got the best player on the ice! NHL FaceOff 99 isn't just a game; it's a late-night couch experience that, at the end of the day, leaves you longing for more frozen ice and less adult responsibilities!

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