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For the uninitiated, Wayne Gretzky is probably the best ice hockey player in the world. His computer game comes with a suitably impressive array of options.

During a match you can make coaching decisions such as substituting players (unlimited substituion is allowed), choosing team formations, and calling time-outs. Before a match you can even create your own team, complete with player ratings, names and numbers, and save it to disk.

If you prefer to leave the strategy to the talented Mr Gretzky, you can concentrate on playing the match. Players are manually selected and controlled by joystick or mouse.

Aspects of this extremely rough game include slamming other players into the side of the rink, holding and even knocking them over. However, if you're too rough the ref will call a penalty and send you into the 'sin bin'. For added realism, when two players clash they will sometimes start to fight.

If you're looking for a fast-action sports game, this is a superb example - play is amazingly fast and furious.

I particularly like the way you can knock over opposing players and sometimes even get away with it!

The graphics are small but well-animated and the thudding sound effects add realism - the only thing missing is the electric organ!

The one slightly annoying thing about this is the manual selection of players - I would have preferred an automatic option. But, apart from this, Wayne Gretzky Hockey is an extremely enjoyable, action-packed game.

And the ability to make coaching decisions adds extra interest to a fine sports simulation.

Presentation 86%
Detailed manual and plenty of options.

Graphics 67%
Small players skate realistically.

Sound 60%
Atmospheric knocks and thuds.

Hookability 68%
Initially confusing.

Lastability 81%
The strategic aspect is interesting.

Overall 77%
A good mixture of frantic action and strategy makes this the best ice hockey sim yet.