On top of the gameplay, 2K Sports retooled Franchise Mode, which continues to be a deep and enjoyable experience. Negotiation for top players actually feels like a challenge, along with having to persistently keep up on the salary cap and contracts as you work your way towards that much-desired Stanley Cup. The player progression system, however, really piqued our interests. Hockey fans will have a blast improving the skills of individual players, shaping them into the next Wayne Gretzky or Peter Forsberg. The Create-a-Player option returns once again, so those looking to implement themselves into the game can do so. The game also supports Xbox Live, same as it always has, through the power of leagues, tournaments and automatic match-ups.

Finally, we come to presentation. The graphics look amazing, with exquisite player details and movement emulated just like the real pros. The arenas appear authentic, right down to the spray of ice that comes from the skates and the wobbling of the boards after a slide. The frame rate hiccups every now and then and the crowd looks like a gaggle of cardboard cutouts, but otherwise, this is a great-looking hockey game.

The audio makes us smile, thanks to a fine assortment of rock anthems (kudos to whoever chose Quiet Riot), good running commentary and bone-crunching sound effects. Cinemotion makes a return as well, for those who feel like rushing down the ice to an orchestrated film-like score.

Certainly, there's room for improvement, particularly with the visuals and the expansion of online options. For now, though, 2K Sports has done just enough to keep up with the competition. NHL 2K8 looks and plays like the actual thing. That rush of coming down the ice on a breakaway with Sakic or Crosby can send chills down the spine. Any game that can emulate that kind of euphoria definitely deserves a purchase.