NHL 98 vs NHL Breakaway 99
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
NHL 98 brings the excitement of professional hockey to the PC with authentic team rosters, realistic physics, and smooth controls. Players can dive into a full season mode, quick exhibition matches, or compete online with friends. The game features updated player attributes, customizable lineups, and a robust multiplayer experience that captures the intensity of the rink. Its intuitive interface and strategic depth make it a timeless favorite for both casual fans and hardcore hockey enthusiasts.
NHL Breakaway 99 brings the full 1998-99 NHL lineup to your screen, featuring all 27 teams, over 600 players, and the newly added Nashville Predators. The game delivers realistic player sizes, weights, and updated jerseys for an authentic hockey experience. The title includes deep management tools such as player creation, trades, and team style customization, plus split‑screen multiplayer for head‑to‑head action on the same console.
- Authentic 1997‑98 NHL rosters and stats
- Responsive controls and smooth gameplay
- Robust multiplayer options
- Deep season and management features
- Comprehensive 1998‑99 rosters
- Deep team management options
- Authentic arena and jersey details
- Split‑screen multiplayer support
- Outdated graphics by modern standards
- Limited online infrastructure on PC
- No official mod support
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited platform availability
- Control scheme can feel clunky for newcomers
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Alternatives to NHL Breakaway 99
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Experience authentic NHL action with motion-captured players and real ice conditions
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are classic late‑90s NHL titles with similar price, but NHL 98 scores higher on critics and offers broader multiplayer modes, while NHL Breakaway 99 provides deeper team‑management tools and authentic arena details.
Key differences
- •Critic score: NHL 98 (78) vs NHL Breakaway 99 (70).
- •Multiplayer scope: NHL 98 supports up to 8 players via LAN/online; Breakaway 99 limited to split‑screen.
- •Team management depth: Breakaway 99 includes create/trade/sign/release and style customization; NHL 98 focuses on season mode.
- •Season coverage: Breakaway 99 reflects the 1998‑99 season; NHL 98 reflects the 1997‑98 season.
- •Developer pedigree: Breakaway 99 by Iguana Entertainment; NHL 98 by EA Canada (EA Sports).
Gameplay & fun factor
NHL 98 praised for responsive controls and smooth gameplay; Breakaway 99 noted as clunky for newcomers.
Platform availability
Both listed only with generic platform info; specific platforms not provided.
Price & value
Both priced at $49.99 with one‑time purchase.
Multiplayer / co‑op
NHL 98 supports up to 8 players via LAN/online; Breakaway 99 only split‑screen.
Content & replayability
Breakaway 99 offers extensive roster management, team‑style customization, and authentic arenas, adding depth.
Difficulty & accessibility
NHL 98’s controls are described as responsive, whereas Breakaway 99’s scheme can feel clunky.
Graphics & performance
Both suffer from dated graphics by modern standards; no further distinction given.
Choose NHL 98 if…
Players prioritizing smoother controls, higher critical acclaim, and larger multiplayer sessions.
Choose NHL Breakaway 99 if…
Fans who want deep roster/arena customization and authentic 1998‑99 season details.
Common questions
Is there a difference in price?
Both games cost $49.99 as a one‑time purchase.
Which game supports more players simultaneously?
NHL 98 supports up to 8 players via LAN/online; Breakaway 99 only offers split‑screen.
Which title has better critical reception?
NHL 98 received a critic score of 78/100, higher than Breakaway 99’s 70/100.