One of EA Sports biggest franchises is back and better than ever this year; NHL 2001. Back in my college days I ruled the dorms with NHL94, and I only lost seven games in two years. To say that this is one of my favorite games is an understatement. Since that time however, EA has had a difficult time recapturing the magic of the Sega Genesis days. The closest they have come is last years tremendous effort, which reclaimed some of the series lost glory, and still added some new features.

It seems that EA is happy with the gameplay they achieved last years and are now focused on tweaking the game for the Playstation2. Some of the things to expect this year:

• All NHL teams including the Minnesota Wild and Columbus Blue Jackets
• Enhanced Season Mode - Act as GM and trade for star players or create your own cyber athletes
• Post-goal or -victory celebrations, player antics, emotional outburst, taunting and more
• A new Big-Shot button to unleash a blistering slapshot from the blue line.
• A new Big-Hit button to pummel your opponent into submission
• Improved deke moves, and improved fights

One of the things I am most excited about is EAs promise of new and improved goal celebrations. When you light the lamp you want to be rewarded, and this game will make all your blood sweat and tears worthwhile. There will be new animations for goal scoring, and victory celebrations, and the hats are back! Thats right, no more disappointment after scoring your third goal and getting no special recognition. Youll be showered with hats from the home crowd, just like in the Genesis versions. Players will also taunt each other, and according to EA have "emotional outbursts", hopefully that doesnt mean that they will break down and cry.

Another exciting aspect of the game will be momentum changes. Those of you who are familiar with the series no doubt remember the hot and cold meters showing what players are on their game, and those who are struggling. This year the concept is taken one step further with the advent of in-game momentum shifts. Lay a bone-jarring hit on the other team, make a great save, win a fight and your teams attributes will temporarily increase, giving you the upper hand.

The Playstation2s first hockey title looks to have what it takes to be a winner, and EA Sports is doing everything possible to rid themselves of that odd-year jinx label that has been attached to them. Those of you looking for a great sports game to pick up, arent likely to be disappointed with this one.