Gretzky NHL 06

Stuff

Here's a puck game that's actually worthy of old number 99. The Franchise mode is nice and deep, the Wayne Vs. Wayne Arcade mode is mad addictive and the on-ice action is super slick without ever being too over-the-top.

Gaming Horizon

The game has seen a remarkable improvement since the previous Gretzky NHL released at the handheld’s launch, but it still isn’t quite where it needs to be and probably can’t compete yet with 2K Sports’ or EA Sports’ versions if and when they come out for the PSP.

Gamer's Hell

It was well thought out, and makes for a nice change of pace from normal play.

GameZone

Great simulation gameplay; even better arcade-style gameplay; an excellent soundtrack; updated graphics; and a number of tweaks and additional game modes that would make the guy this game is based on (what’s his name again?) proud.

PGNx Media

As an arcade version of hockey, it doesn’t really succeed in going all out. Nonetheless, despite a longing for more responsive gameplay, I enjoyed Gretzky NHL 06. If you’ve been a Gretzky NHL fan in the past, this version is the one to get.

GamerFeed

Opting to play Gretzky NHL '06 instead of "NHL 06" and "NHL 2K6" is sort of like going around hungry for a steak dinner and settling for McDonald's.

Next Level Gaming

A little too arcadey for my tastes. The game just doesn’t feel like a true hockey game to me.

GamingTrend

A non-intuitive interface, some gameplay issues on the ice and little replay value.

Game Informer

A bare bones approach to hockey that never distinguishes itself. [Nov 2005, p.151]

Armchair Empire

Gretzky NHL 06 showed some serious improvement graphically over last year’s version but otherwise all the same flaws remain untouched.

Gaming Target

Unless you don't like either NHL 2K6 or NHL 06, Gretzky NHL 06 is a good game but relegated to the 3rd line behind those two stars, and somehow gets paid a higher salary to boot.

PSX Extreme

There’s simply no reason to recommend it from either a gameplay or price perspective.

IGN

While the game's behind-the-scenes management aspects and various game modes are pretty good, the actual on-ice experience leaves a lot to be desired, especially with regards to the game's actual feel. Simply put, if you're looking for a realistic hockey experience, this is definitely not the game for you.

GameSpot

Hockey fans will be able to play Gretzky '06 without much frustration or duress, but that's really about all you can say for it.

Operation Sports

You’re going to get a solid arcade hockey game, wrapped in a fun title. I personally prefer games that are more of a simulation.

DarkStation

Having Wayne Gretzky's name on a game should have guaranteed a sure-fire hit, but the new features are a letdown and isn't any better from last year's effort.

Gamezilla!

The Great One shoots!....and he misses.

Game Over Online

The Wayne vs. Wayne mode is loads of fun, but it's not worth paying $39.99 USD for. I just can't recommend Gretzky NHL 06 over either of the other two hockey video game franchises currently on the market.

Gaming Age

The sound is pretty standard fare also. The checks and hockey sound effects are boilerplate, not that I’d expect anything else.

PSM Magazine

Ice is cold, but this game is colder. [Dec 2005, p.110]

Worth Playing

SCEA's Gretzky team needs to go to skating camp and really work on building a hockey game from the ice up. Until then, they will be left with a lame game, no matter what sort of bells and whistles they tack onto the box.

G4 TV

Though the Wayne vs. Wayne mode is an interesting, if not disturbing, idea, it’s not enough to justify a purchase for most hockey fans.

GameSpy

Gretzky '06 piles up some new features, does a better job of tracking franchise info, and has the AHL license for minor-league teams. It does not, however, come close to equaling the on-ice fun of "NHL 2k6" or "NHL '06."

Official U.S. Playstation Magazine

A buggy mess that should be avoided in favor of "NHL 2K6" or "NHL 06." [Dec 2005, p.115]