Kings Fest

It may have been over 100 degrees in Los Angeles this weekend but for LA Kings fans all they could think about was this season on the ice. Starting Friday and running through Sunday, Kings fans stormed LA Live to meet with their favorite players, listen to panels, get autographs and play EA’s NHL 10.

Walking up to the event, the street was closed so that teams could play street hockey against each other. The teams had cold air fans but they looked like they were having fun.

Inside the event the Kings held various panels from players, coaches and ex-players talking all things Kings. On top of the garage was a large tent that was thankfully air conditioned. Inside fans could buy LA Kings gear, practice their slapshot, and get to meet their favorite Kings players at autograph sessions.

Kings Fest

EA setup six stations in the tent to showcase NHL 10. This wasn’t a short demo, the full game was on display for people to play. I played a full game of Anaheim Mighty Ducks versus Vancouver Canucks. The great thing about NHL 10 is the player can set the difficulty. This simple setting allows everyone from the hardcore to the casual fan to play.

I’ll start with the graphics are amazing. But it’s beyond the ice and look of the game. The players moved in such a way that one might think they were watching a game on tv. The fluid way they moved really stunned me.

I decided to play the game on the Playstation 3. Both versions are the same, so basically it comes down to personal preference. Even though I hadn’t played a NHL title in many years, I picked up the controller and was able to get into the game quickly. I scored the first goal and proceeded to get into about seven fights. I got into so many fights that the kids next to me would say, “Are you fighting again miss?” I laughed as I took some enjoyment in beating up the Canuck player. Fighting is definitely a fun part of NHL 10. Passing was easy to do and the controls are pretty straightforward for defensive plays.

I definitely have to spend some time learning the controls, but I really enjoyed the demo. I could tell that plenty of other people did too by the lines of kids playing. I enjoyed seeing daughters taking on their dad in the game, and winning! Even the players got into the game! Both demos are out on Xbox Live Marketplace and Playstation Store. Get on your favorite jersey and get in the game!

Kings Fest