Despite its arcade nature, reviewers at IGN and Nintendo World Report noted the game's surprising depth: NHL HITZ 2003 - THE BEST HOCKEY GAME EVER?!
: Fights are structured like a literal fighting game , complete with health bars and special moves. NHL Hitz 2003
: Beyond all 30 NHL teams from the 2002-03 season, you can play as pirates, aliens, sharks, or snowmen . Despite its arcade nature, reviewers at IGN and
: The game removes offsides, icing, and most penalties. Players are encouraged to body check opponents through the glass , creating temporary power plays. Despite its arcade nature
: Scoring multiple goals or performing big hits allows players to literally "catch fire," granting significant boosts to speed and checking power.