What we said about it:

ESPN NHL 2K5 was the best hockey video game last year, hands down. The main reason: gameplay. NHL 2K6 carries on in that tradition. The NHL 2K series continues to play like a champion. The new additions to NHL 2K6 more than make up for the loss of the ESPN license and the new NHL rules are well implemented, with the exception of the salary cap, or lack thereof. With sharp gameplay, polished game modes, a great presentation, and a price tag of only $20 USD, hardcore fans need look no further for their hockey fix.

Read more: Review (Xbox) | Review (PS2)

Get NHL 2K6: Xbox | PS2 | Xbox 360

 

What we said about it:

Good news for PSP owning hockey fans: this year's Gretzky isn't as bad as the last. In fact, it's pretty decent. Now that's not to say that there aren't a few problems, but overall it's a marked improvement.

Of note in this installment is the overall graphic and sound improvements. The graphics are actually quite good and crisp. The character animation is very nice. Other than a few notable exceptions, the sound is quite a bit better as well. One huge sound improvement is the announcer's chatter. I

Gretzky 06 is pretty good overall. There are a few flaws in it but nothing that can't be overlooked by the hockey fanatic. Go out there and knock someone's teeth out.

Read more: Review (PSP)

Get Gretzky NHL 06: PSP

 

What we said about it:

FIFA 06 takes the “sink or swim” approach of acclimating to the new year’s gameplay by literally throwing you into a match almost as soon as the game starts up. After choosing a favorite club and a control scheme that will determine how you’ll play, you’re immediately challenged to a match by a “classic” team made up of soccer vets like Zico, Rudi Voller and Eric Cantona.

Simply put, if you’re a fan of football (or soccer), you really can’t miss with this title. The gameplay is extremely solid, the managerial mode is surprisingly deep and the additional features make FIFA 06 a great sports addition for fans of the sport.

Read more: Review (PS2) | Review (Xbox) | Review (GC)

Get FIFA Soccer 06: PS2 | Xbox | GC | Xbox 360 | PSP