This game is easy to play - in fact, the Just Play option is perfect for hockey novices who don't want to study the manual. The six international teams that competed in previous Canada Cup tourneys are also available. Study the in-depth player ratings, and then make trades among the real NHLPA-licensed players on all 26 teams. The great selection of teams and players adds more fun. The periodic breaks for brutal one-on-one fights make this game unique, and a ton of hard-nosed checks add muscle to the normal gameplay. The Great One's hockey expertise and sophisticated moves are here, but unlike Wayne's graceful real-life performances, this Genesis game has a vicious side. The good hockey action is supplemented with the most surprising aspect of this game: violence. ProTip: You have a limited number of Intimidations, so use them in key situations, such as killing a penalty.

Although the responsive controls let you quickly check, pass, and shoot, advanced hockey features like one-timers and goalie control are noticeably absent. Choose from all 26 NHL teams and 6 international teams, then hit the ice in the usual Exhibition, Playoff, All-Stars, and Season modes. In terms of hockey trappings, Gretzky's well equipped. With only a punch and an uppercut, though, even the fighting's too simplistic. An Intimidate command lets you pick fights, and you can instruct your team to make aggressive, rough, or defensive plays. Of course, if you want to kick some ice, this game will quench your bloodlust. Despite its speedy pace, Gretzky lacks everything that requires skill (passing, setting up offensive plays, etc.) in real hockey sims. Defense and offense don't require fancy foot-work or strategy, just repeated checking. On this ice, you'd better be prepared to fight better than you skate and shoot.

Since both camps can find more satisfying action elsewhere, this mixed reaction earns Wayne a trip to the penalty box.

Fighting gamers may find momentary fun in this easy Wayne Gretzky game, but hockey fans will shudder.

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