I have never been a sports game fan due to that I ususally get bored of the game and that I get disappointed by the game itself. There are some games though where this isn't the case and one of these games is EA Sports NHL 96.

I own the SNES version of NHL 96 but it also appeared on the Gameboy, Mega-Drive and DOS. The game itself is highly simple. You choose a team, face another and try to score as many goals as you can before the time runs out. This simple approach to the gameplay helps it stay fresh and addicting for longer.  There are three gameplay modes which are Exhibition, Season and Play-Offs all allowing a fun experiance alone or with another player.

The game mimicks the real sport well by including real teams, arenas and players helping give the game true authenticity. The game also reintroduced fighting between players helping again mimick the real sport and give an amusing twist to matches. The game has in-depth customability allowing players to choose what skill level they want to play, how long periods will last and so on. The soundtrack is 2 Unlimited's Get Ready For This and really matches the game well on the opening screens. The controls are smooth, the graphics are detailed and the music/sound is clear and authentic. This is also the last EA Sports NHL game to feature two players on the cover being Scott Stevens and Steve Yzerman.

NHL 96 is I feel the best Ice-Hockey game of the 16-bit era and one of EA's best sports titles. With it's authenticity to the real sport, detailed customability and great gameplay it is a brilliant sports game which should be owned by every SNES and Mega-Drive owner.