Back when the N64 debuted in 1996, it’s first Hockey title was Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey from Midway. It was one of the first extreme type games on a console, and it received mediocre accolades. It was fun, but got old real quick. Since then Midway has gone back to the drawing board and created NHL Hitz 2002. If you don’t know what the premise is, it’s extreme hockey. Big hits, high scoring, 3-3 hockey.

First off I must state I am not a big hockey freak. I enjoy Hockey video games though I just don’t know who all the good teams are (I usually pick Canadian teams), and who the best players are. Midway’s pretty much fixed that problem for me with Hitz. You pick a team, and then you pick 3 players on your team. With different scores you can tell who’s good, and who you want to leave on the bench. Pick your players and you’re off.

I’ve played the single and two-player modes, and I think the first thing I noticed was the speed of NHL Hitz. Everything moves at a blistering pace. Games are quick to setup and play. Passes, shots, and of course the hits all happen very very quick. Speaking of the hits, they are gut wrenching. You can pound someone right through the glass and into the stands. Inflicting pain upon the other team is part of the game, and it’s a great time.

Oh yes, and there’s fights. It’s a quick little fighting game moment that seems to happen about once per period, but they are great. I would have liked it to be more over the top, but for what it is it’s great fun.

Midway used the same voice guy from the Blitz series, and he’s still as loud and boisterous as ever. He’s varied, but I can see he might get annoying in the near future. Outside of that, the other sound effects are alright.

The gameplay is simple to pick up, and very easy to play. As of right now, this is the only Hockey title available for the GameCube this year. It’s a lot of fun with your friends, but for how long is still unknown. My friend and I played until 5am this morning, so take that as you will. So far, NHL Hitz is a big hit in my apartment.