NHL 2005 vs NHL Hitz Pro
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
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.
Designed for casual fans, the title supports single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer, letting friends battle on PlayStation 2 with intense, hard‑hitting gameplay and commentary from Tim Kitzrow and Harry Teinowitz. Released on September 25 2003, it remains a beloved entry in the NHL Hitz series.
- Innovative Open Ice Control system
- Deep Dynasty mode with GM interactions
- Authentic World Cup content
- Split‑screen multiplayer on two platforms
- Fast, arcade‑style gameplay
- Authentic Olympic team jerseys
- Split‑screen multiplayer
- Varied Pick‑Up modes
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited online multiplayer options
- AI can be inconsistent in higher difficulty
- No penalty shots
- Limited to PS2 platform only
- Arcade feel may not satisfy hardcore simulation fans
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Alternatives to NHL 2005
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Alternatives to NHL Hitz Pro
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Classic arcade hockey with exhibition, tournament, shootout and fight modes.
Arcade‑style hockey with over‑the‑top power moves and fast‑paced action.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataNHL Hitz Pro offers fast, arcade‑style action with split‑screen play on PS2, while NHL 2005 provides a deeper simulation experience with more modes but higher price and dated graphics.
Key differences
- •Gameplay style: Hitz Pro is arcade‑focused with exaggerated hits; NHL 2005 is a simulation with realistic physics.
- •Content depth: NHL 2005 includes Dynasty mode and World Cup teams; Hitz Pro offers limited modes and no penalty shots.
- •Platform: Hitz Pro is PS2‑only; NHL 2005 runs on PC and PlayStation.
- •Price: Hitz Pro costs $49.99 vs. NHL 2005 at $59.99.
- •Critical reception: Hitz Pro scored 80/100, higher than NHL 2005's 75/100.
Gameplay & fun factor
Hitz Pro delivers arcade‑style, fast‑paced action with exaggerated hits, appealing for casual fun.
Platform availability
NHL 2005 runs on PC and PlayStation, while Hitz Pro is limited to PS2.
Price & value
Hitz Pro is $10 cheaper ($49.99) than NHL 2005 ($59.99).
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both support split‑screen multiplayer for head‑to‑head play.
Content & replayability
NHL 2005 offers Dynasty mode and World Cup content; Hitz Pro has limited modes and no penalty shots.
Difficulty & accessibility
Arcade style of Hitz Pro is easier for casual players; NHL 2005’s realistic simulation can be harder.
Graphics & performance
Both are from early‑2000s; NHL 2005’s graphics are noted as dated, but no specific advantage for Hitz Pro.
Choose NHL 2005 if…
Players seeking deeper simulation, career modes, and multi‑platform support, willing to pay more.
Choose NHL Hitz Pro if…
Casual players who want quick, arcade hockey on PS2 and prefer lower cost.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
NHL Hitz Pro costs $49.99, while NHL 2005 costs $59.99.
Can I play online multiplayer?
Neither game lists online multiplayer; both only support split‑screen local play.
Do either games include international teams?
NHL 2005 includes World Cup of Hockey international teams; Hitz Pro only has Olympic team jerseys via IIHF license.