Total Game Boy


NHL: Blades Of Steel

Publisher: Konami
Machine: Game Boy Color

 
Published in Total Game Boy Issue 04

NHL: Blades Of Steel

It's nice to be on the ice!

Carrying on the American Sport theme is another attempt at a fast moving, all-action US game. Even though Ice Hockey isn't that bad a sport, it seems a pity that such a lovely looking title turns out to be so disappointing.

On the good side, there's so much crammed into the cartridge that it defies belief. All the teams from the National Hockey League are here - 27 in all. Then there's the option to play one-off exhibition matches, practice fights and penalties or try full NHL seasons and even play-off for the big championship. It really doesn't get any better than this.

NHL: Blades Of Steel

Sadly though, it really doesn't get any better. While the graphics are detailed enough to make it visually interesting and the sound is impressive, there's simply too much going on here. With ten players all skating about to gain control of the puck, it becomes totally confusing. Player control changes virtually every chance it gets and when you do finally get the puck, your man falls over most of the time.

Add to this the fact that the computer rarely misses and... well, you get the picture.

If you're looking for a decent Hockey game, this ain't it despite all the frills. A shame.

Verdict

NHL: Blades Of Steel

Graphics 60%
A bit small and piddly!

Sound 40%
Ooof! Crunch! You get the idea.

Playability 60%
Far too confusing for its own good.

Lastability 60%
Well... there are lots of options.

Overall 51%
Ice skating? This one falls flat on its rump!