NHL 06 vs NHL 2005
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Hit the ice with EA Sports' NHL 06, the 2005 edition that builds on its predecessor with new analog stick deking and fancy moves for superstar players. The game features an up‑to‑date roster of NHL stars and a variety of modes, from dynasty and single season to quick matches and online play. The graphics have been fine‑tuned to reflect true player size differences, giving larger defensemen and goalies a more imposing look while keeping speedy scorers lean. With split‑screen multiplayer and a solid single‑player experience, NHL 06 delivers a deep, simulator‑style hockey experience for fans of the sport.
NHL 2005 brings the speed, finesse, and excitement of pro hockey to your living room, featuring EA Sports Open Ice Control for dynamic offensive plays and defensive strategies. The game also expands the Dynasty mode with deeper GM interactions and an in‑game e‑mail system. Enjoy international competition with the World Cup of Hockey, complete with authentic teams and venues across North America and Europe, plus split‑screen multiplayer for head‑to‑head action.
- Deep Dynasty management
- Realistic player size graphics
- Innovative analog stick controls
- Broad platform support
- Innovative Open Ice Control system
- Deep Dynasty mode with GM interactions
- Authentic World Cup content
- Split‑screen multiplayer on two platforms
- Fancy moves limited to superstar players
- No online matchmaking on PC version
- Graphics dated by modern standards
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited online multiplayer options
- AI can be inconsistent in higher difficulty
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to NHL 06
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Alternatives to NHL 2005
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataNHL 06 offers sharper gameplay and higher critical acclaim, while NHL 2005 is older with dated graphics and a lower score.
Key differences
- •Critic score: 75/100 (2005) vs 88/100 (2006).
- •Control scheme: NHL 06 adds precise analog deking and spin moves; NHL 2005 uses Open Ice Control.
- •Graphics: NHL 06 highlights realistic player‑size differences; NHL 2005 graphics are dated.
- •Age rating: ESRB E (2005) vs ESRB E10+ (2006).
- •Dynasty depth: both have management, but NHL 06 mentions finances and sponsors explicitly.
Gameplay & fun factor
NHL 06’s analog stick controls and higher critic score (88) indicate more refined, enjoyable gameplay.
Platform availability
Both list PC and PlayStation (2005 mentions PlayStatio, 2006 lists PlayStation 2); availability is equivalent.
Price & value
Both priced at $59.99 with one‑time purchase; value depends on other factors.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Each supports single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer; no online play on either.
Content & replayability
NHL 06 adds updated 2005‑06 roster and deeper Dynasty finance/sponsor management.
Difficulty & accessibility
NHL 2005’s ESRB E rating suggests it’s more suitable for younger players.
Graphics & performance
NHL 06 emphasizes realistic player‑size graphics; NHL 2005’s graphics are described as dated.
Choose NHL 06 if…
Buy if you want the most polished, feature‑rich hockey experience.
Choose NHL 2005 if…
Buy if you need a family‑friendly (ESRB E) title with simpler controls.
Common questions
Do either of the games support online multiplayer?
No; both only offer single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer.
Which game has the better critical reception?
NHL 06, with a critic score of 88/100 versus NHL 2005’s 75/100.
Are the control schemes different?
Yes; NHL 06 uses analog stick deking and spin moves, while NHL 2005 relies on Open Ice Control.