Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

NHL 98 represents a significant leap in on-ice performance compared to its predecessors, introducing a four-button control scheme that eliminates awkward double-tapping for dekes and checks. Each action key is now dedicated to a specific function—passing, shooting, body contact and stick handling—allowing for more precise execution of advanced maneuvers. The result is a faster, smoother experience that rewards timing and skill rather than frantic key mashing.

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An especially welcome addition is the “in-the-fly” tactics system developed in collaboration with Marc Crawford, then manager of the Colorado Avalanche. This feature lets you switch line strategies—offensive pressure, trap defense or balanced play—on the move, without pausing the action. It adds a layer of strategic depth, empowering players to react to momentum swings and adapt their game plan in real time.

The variety of game modes further enhances replayability. NHL 98 celebrates the first year of Olympic competition with professional talent by including a full International Tournament mode featuring 18 national teams. Traditional Season play lets you choose between a 25-game or full 82-game schedule, while Playoff mode offers best-of-1, 3, 5 or 7 series. For quick thrills, the Penalty Shootout mode delivers sudden-death drama in bite-sized form.

Graphics

Visually, NHL 98 makes noticeable strides beyond NHL 97, presenting skaters with more natural proportions and smoother animations. Player models have shed much of the angular blockiness seen in earlier titles, and thanks to optional 3Dfx hardware support on the PC, texture work appears cleaner with fewer visible pixels. Ice surfaces feature subtle skate marks, and lighting effects capture the sheen of the rink under arena lights.

The in-game presentation is styled after a live TV broadcast, complete with dynamic camera angles that zoom in on players after big hits or goals. During stoppages, a quick stats overlay appears in the corner of the screen, highlighting shot counts, power-play conversions and star player performance. These broadcast-style touches contribute to an immersive atmosphere that replicates the feel of watching a real NHL telecast.

A re-worked interface streamlines menus and in-game HUD elements. You can easily toggle line changes, view live tactics, or check player energy levels without digging through submenus. The clean, readable fonts and intuitive iconography make setup and gameplay adjustments both fast and painless.

Story

Strictly speaking, NHL 98 doesn’t deliver a narrative “story” in the traditional sense—but it does weave an engaging seasonal arc through its various modes. The introduction of real-world international competition adds context and excitement, allowing fans to reenact the road to Olympic gold in the same year that professional players first represented their countries in Nagano.

Commentary from veteran voices Jim Hughson and Darryl Reaugh further enhances the sense of drama. Their dynamic call-outs—ranging from play-by-play descriptions to color-commentary insights—add personality to each matchup. Hearing Hughson break down a power-play formation or Reaugh praise a perfectly angled shot helps build tension and underscores big moments.

Even without a scripted campaign, the interplay of commentary, TV-style cutscenes and tournament progression creates a flow that feels like a lived hockey season. Each victory, upset or elimination carries weight, giving purpose to every faceoff and line change.

Overall Experience

NHL 98 stands out as one of the most complete hockey simulations of its era. Refined controls and expanded tactics deliver depth for hardcore strategists, while pick-up-and-play accessibility keeps casual fans engaged. The addition of professional Olympic competition and a robust selection of modes ensures that each play session can feel fresh and challenging.

Graphically, the game strikes a fine balance between realistic presentation and fluid performance—especially on systems equipped with 3Dfx accelerators. The TV-style broadcast aesthetic, combined with talented commentary, elevates the immersion factor and cements NHL 98’s status as a must-play for hockey enthusiasts.

Whether you’re battling through a full 82-game season, chasing playoff glory or representing your country on the Olympic ice, NHL 98 delivers an engaging, high-speed hockey experience that holds up well decades after its release. Its blend of polish, depth and broadcast flair makes it an essential addition to any sports gaming library.

Retro Replay Score

8.1/10