NHL 10

$60, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Teaches: sports, hockey, fine motor coordination

CTR Rating: 92%

CTR Review

A great sports simulation just keeps getting better, with more eye candy (plus some ads) and features. New to this edition: Game Styles, which give you control over the way the game is played using a slider bar that ranges from casual to serious. More control over the skill level is also provided. Also new: a board play physics engine that lets you shield the puck with your body along the boards, kick-pass it to teammates, or pin an opponent. There is also post-whistle action that lets you antagonize your opponents, finish checks and pick fights even after the referee blows the whistle. Other features include a new Battle for the Cup Mode, a GM Mode that puts you in charge of your favorite NHL organization, and an enhanced Be a Pro Mode that includes a prospects game before heading to the draft. If you can afford the $60, this is a title to buy, or at least borrow for a fun weekend of virtual hockey.