Gretzky NHL'06 Begins New Season on PSP

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Gretzky NHL'06 Begins New Season on PSP
By The Editor
October 12, 2005 - 10:01

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today the launch of Gretzky NHL'06, exclusively for the PSP (PlayStation Portable) system. Now available in stores,

Gretzky NHL '06 for the PSP system drops the puck on the new season with three all-new arcade style modes and updates to authentic simulation gameplay, including a true-to-game broadcast presentation and more intuitive Artificial Intelligence (AI), creating the ultimate virtual hockey experience.

Offering true hockey fans what no other hockey videogame can, Gretzky NHL '06 for the PSP system suits up the "The Great One" in the all-new Wayne vs. Wayne Mode, where gamers have the chance to skate six-on-five with Gretzky himself. By playing smart hockey, gamers can achieve "99 Time," where Gretzky will become a temporary teammate. If "99 Time" is achieved enough times over the course of a game, gamers will have the ability to employ five playable versions of Gretzky on the ice at once. With opposing players having the same opportunity, it sets the stage for a possible five-on-five, all-Gretzky, ultimate head-to-head match-up.

For gamers seeking quick, easy to pick-up-and-play, arcade-style gameplay and presentation, Gretzky NHL '06 the PSP system offers two all-new mini-games, exclusive to the PSP system. The all-new Three-on-Three Countdown Mode is an open-ice game, with three players on each team, that lets the user select the number of goals to play (3, 5, 7, 9, 11) and work backwards in order to get to zero, while NHL Showdown Mode tracks stats and Team Chemistry as gamers compete in Wayne vs. Wayne Mode in attempts to work their way to the top of the ladder.

"Gretzky NHL '06 the PSP system provides hockey fans a chance to play their sport anywhere, anytime," said Sharon Shapiro, senior director, promotions and sports product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "By combining unique opportunities to get in and skate with greatest player to ever take to the ice, along with multiple gameplay options, Gretzky NHL '06 for the PSP system is the perfect blend of professional hockey and arcade-style gameplay for gamers on the go."

Officially licensed by the NHL, NHLPA, AHL and NHLCA, Gretzky NHL '06 the PSP system truly reflects the world's fastest team sport by integrating enhanced graphics, new player models, and a new gameplay system called Team Chemistry. With Team Chemistry, gamers will need to play good team hockey, as the revamped AI rewards gamers by increasing player attributes and elevating the level of play from teammates for sharing the puck and playing tough defense. Additionally, Gretzky NHL '06 the PSP system now features commentary from broadcasting legend Mike Emrick and former Chicago Blackhawks goalie Darren Pang, providing gamers with the most authentic hockey simulation available.

Returning features include Quick Game, Exhibition and Season Modes, along with a revamped shot meter for the perfect one-timer. For gamers on the go, Gretzky NHL'06 the PSP system offers multiplayer gameplay locally via Ad Hoc Mode, or across the nation via Infrastructure Mode. And for the ultimate challenge, hard-core hockey fans can participate in the Gretzky Challenge, earn points by breaking Gretzky's actual NHL records, and utilize those points to unlock hidden items, such as jerseys, teams and playable Gretzkys from his days as a member of the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers and Team Canada.

The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rates Gretzky NHL '06 the PSP system "E 10+" for "Everyone 10 and older." For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.