Wayne Gretzky's 3d Hockey 98
Introduction
When it comes to sports video games, few are as iconic as Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98. Released in 1997 for Nintendo 64, it was a game changer in its time. The game was developed by Midway Games and was the first hockey game to feature 3D graphics, which made it stand out from other games in the genre. It quickly gained a cult following and even today, more than 20 years after its release, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. This article will take an in-depth look at what made Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 such a beloved game.
Gameplay
One of the things that made Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 so unique was its gameplay. The game was fast-paced and action-packed, with players able to pull off crazy moves, such as spinning slap shots and jumping checks. There were numerous game modes to choose from, including exhibition, season, playoffs, and shootout. The game even had a multiplayer mode, where up to four players could play at once.
The controls were simple and easy to pick up, but difficult to master. The game used the Nintendo 64's analog stick to move players around the ice, while the A button was used for passing and shooting. The B button was used for checking and stealing the puck from other players. Overall, the gameplay was smooth and responsive, making it a joy to play.
Graphics and Sound
As previously mentioned, Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 was the first hockey game to feature 3D graphics. The graphics were not as advanced as those in today's games, but at the time they were revolutionary. The players were all polygonal, but they were still recognizable as their real-life counterparts. The ice and surroundings were also well-designed and immersive, adding to the overall experience.
The sound design was also well-done. The game had an announcer who would commentate on the game, and the sound effects were realistic and satisfying. The music was upbeat and energetic, adding to the fast-paced nature of the game.
Legacy
Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 left a lasting legacy in the video game industry. It inspired other hockey games to follow suit and incorporate 3D graphics into their gameplay. The game was also the precursor to Midway Games' other popular sports game, NFL Blitz. Today, fans of the game still hold it in high regard and consider it one of the best hockey games ever made.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 was an iconic game that left a lasting impact on the video game industry. Its fast-paced and action-packed gameplay, as well as its innovative 3D graphics, made it a standout game in its time. Even today, more than 20 years after its release, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. If you're a fan of hockey games and haven't played Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey 98 yet, it's definitely worth checking out.