NHL 2005

Game Overview

NHL 2005 is a professional ice hockey simulation game developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports. Released during the 2004–2005 NHL lockout season, the game served as a primary showcase for top-tier professional hockey and international competition.

The headline feature in NHL 2005 is the Open Ice Control system, which revolutionized gameplay by allowing control over players who do not have the puck. Players can execute off-puck body checks, call for passes, and coordinate complex offensive line-up plays. Additionally, the game officially features the IIHF World Cup of Hockey tournament, allowing users to guide national teams—including Canada, Sweden, Russia, and the USA—to international glory alongside traditional NHL franchises.

On the Nintendo GameCube, NHL 2005 boasts sharp visual presentation, smooth 60fps action, responsive analog controls, detailed player models, and deep franchise management through EA's signature Dynasty Mode.

Quick Specifications

Key Features

• Open Ice Control Mechanics: Control off-puck players to call for passes, clear out defenders, set up one-timers, and execute off-puck body checks.

• Official World Cup of Hockey Mode: Compete in the official IIHF World Cup of Hockey tournament with real international national teams, uniforms, and rosters.

• Deep Dynasty Mode: Take complete operational charge of an NHL franchise across up to 20 seasons, managing player salaries, scouting, and chemistry.

• Enhanced Skating Physics & Hits: Refined collision engine delivers dramatic glass-cracking body checks, realistic puck bounces, and smooth skating momentum.

• EA Sports Presentation: Complete with dynamic play-by-play commentary, detailed arena lighting, and a licensed alt-rock soundtrack featuring Jimmy Eat World, Green Day, and Sum 41.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

What is the Open Ice Control feature in NHL 2005?

Open Ice Control allows you to command players who do not currently possess the puck. With the press of a button, you can control an off-puck teammate to call for a pass, lay a pick, or deliver a hit to create open space.

Does NHL 2005 include international national teams?

Yes! NHL 2005 officially features the World Cup of Hockey, complete with authentic national team rosters, logos, and international tournament brackets.

How many players can play together on the GameCube?

The game supports up to 4 players simultaneously in local multi-player modes using standard Nintendo GameCube controllers.

Does the GameCube version support 480p progressive scan mode?

Yes, NHL 2005 supports 480p progressive scan output on the Nintendo GameCube for clean and sharp picture quality on compatible displays.