NHL 99 vs NHL Blades of Steel '99
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.

NHL 99 brings the excitement of professional ice hockey to the PC with intuitive Beginner Lever controls that let anyone pick up and play. Featuring coaching tips from Stanley Cup winner Marc Crawford and commentary by Bill Clement, the game feels authentic and immersive. Choose from five distinct game modes, compete with 18 top international teams, and enjoy the updated 1998 roster including the expansion Nashville Predators. Split‑screen multiplayer lets you battle friends on the same screen, making it perfect for couch competition.
NHL Blades of Steel '99 brings the excitement of the 1998-99 NHL season to your screen, featuring motion-captured animation, fully detailed stadiums, and up-to-date rosters called out by announcer Randy Hahn. Manage your team with player trades, free-agent signings, and adjustable strategies for a deep, immersive hockey experience. Play solo or challenge a friend in split‑screen mode, track season stats, and compete for league leader honors. This Konami Sports Series title delivers realistic ice physics and authentic gameplay for fans of all ages.
- Easy-to-learn controls for newcomers
- Authentic coaching from a real Stanley Cup winner
- Rich roster with 1998 updates and expansion team
- Multiple game modes and split‑screen multiplayer
- Authentic 1998‑99 rosters
- Motion-captured player animation
- Split‑screen multiplayer
- Comprehensive season stats
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited to PC platform only
- No online multiplayer support
- Limited to older platforms
- Graphics dated by modern standards
- No online multiplayer
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to NHL 99
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Experience the 1998-99 NHL season with all teams, real rosters, and authentic arena action.
Alternatives to NHL Blades of Steel '99
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Experience the 1998-99 NHL season with all teams, real rosters, and authentic arena action.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth games cost the same and are rated E, but NHL Blades of Steel ’99 offers deeper team‑management features, while NHL 99 is geared toward newcomers with simpler controls and more game modes.
Key differences
- •A includes motion‑captured animation and full‑season stats with player trades; B focuses on beginner‑friendly controls and coaching tips.
- •A’s roster is limited to the 1998‑99 NHL teams; B adds 18 international teams and the new Nashville expansion.
- •B provides five distinct game modes (exhibition, season, playoffs, tournament, practice); A mentions only single‑player and split‑screen play.
- •Platform support: B is confirmed PC‑only; A is described as “limited to older platforms” with no specific OS listed.
- •Both lack online multiplayer, but both support split‑screen local multiplayer.
Gameplay & fun factor
A offers motion‑captured player movement, full season stats, and trade/customization, giving a richer simulation experience.
Platform availability
B explicitly runs on PC; A is only described as limited to older platforms with no clear PC support.
Price & value
Both are priced at $49.99 with one‑time purchase, offering comparable monetary value.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both support single‑player and split‑screen local multiplayer; neither offers online play.
Content & replayability
B includes five game modes and 18 international teams plus an expansion, providing more varied play options.
Difficulty & accessibility
B’s Beginner Lever and coaching guidance make it easier for new players to jump in.
Graphics & performance
Both are noted as having graphics dated by modern standards; no further distinction provided.
Choose NHL 99 if…
Casual or new hockey gamers who prefer simple controls, coaching help, and a wider variety of game modes.
Choose NHL Blades of Steel '99 if…
Players who want a deeper, management‑heavy hockey simulation with realistic animation and season tracking.
Common questions
Do either of these games support online multiplayer?
No; both only support local split‑screen multiplayer.
Which game has more teams and modes to play?
NHL 99 includes 18 international teams, the Nashville expansion, and five distinct game modes; NHL Blades of Steel ’99 focuses on the 1998‑99 NHL roster.
Can I play either game on a modern PC?
NHL 99 is confirmed for PC; NHL Blades of Steel ’99 is described as limited to older platforms, with no specific PC compatibility noted.




