Summary
- Release Year: 1996
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Arcade, Nintendo 64, PlayStation
- Developers: Williams Entertainment
- Publishers: Atari Games, Midway Games
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey (1996): A Classic Arcade-Style Hockey Game
Released in 1996, Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey was a groundbreaking hockey game that introduced a new level of realism and excitement to the genre. Developed by Bethesda Softworks and published by GT Interactive, the game featured 3D graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and a variety of innovative features that made it one of the most popular hockey games of its time.
Gameplay
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey is an arcade-style hockey game that emphasizes speed, scoring, and over-the-top action. The game features a variety of different game modes, including exhibition games, tournaments, and a season mode. Players can choose from a variety of different teams, including all of the NHL teams at the time, as well as several international teams.
The gameplay in Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey is fast-paced and exciting. The game’s physics engine allows for realistic puck movement and player collisions. Players can perform a variety of different moves, including shots, passes, checks, and steals. The game also features a number of special moves, such as “power saves”, which cause the goaltender to briefly transform into a brick wall, “power shots”, which would set the net on fire or knock the goalie into the net, and “power checks”, which would send an ambulance across the top of the screen.
Graphics
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey was one of the first hockey games to feature 3D graphics. The game’s graphics are simple by today’s standards, but they were impressive at the time. The game’s character models are well-animated and the arenas are detailed and realistic.
Sound
The sound in Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey is good. The game’s music is catchy and the sound effects are realistic. The game’s commentary is also well-done, with the commentators providing insightful and humorous commentary on the game action.
Features
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey features a number of innovative features that set it apart from other hockey games of its time. These features include:
- Create-a-player mode: This mode allows players to create their own custom player. Players can choose their player’s name, appearance, and attributes.
- Franchise mode: This mode allows players to manage their own hockey team. Players can make trades, sign free agents, and develop their players.
- Online multiplayer: This mode allows players to compete against each other online.
Reception
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and realistic graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey is considered to be one of the greatest hockey games of all time. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and realistic graphics set a new standard for hockey games. The game also helped to popularize the sport of hockey and introduce it to a new generation of fans.
Conclusion
Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey is a classic arcade-style hockey game that still holds up today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and realistic graphics make it a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and exciting hockey experience.
Review Score
7.5/10
