Bush Hockey League
- March 28, 2017
- V7 Entertainment
- 4h median play time
Old Time Hockey rushes out of the box with a great presentation but trips up once it hits the ice and has to prove itself. The game just can't match up to the retro classics that were its inspiration.
Get on Steam
Get on Xbox Games Store"Bush Hockey League" is a nostalgic ice hockey game that brings players back to the 90s with its retro graphics and intense action. The game features 21 unique teams, each with their own players and playing styles, as well as a career mode where players can lead their team to victory over multiple seasons. With Tag Mode, players can compete in chaotic 4-player matches, adding an extra layer of excitement to the fast-paced gameplay.
Reviews
- The game captures the nostalgic feel of classic arcade hockey games, reminiscent of titles from the 70s and 90s.
- The fighting mechanics and humorous elements add a fun and chaotic layer to the gameplay, making it enjoyable for casual play.
- The developers are actively updating the game and responding to community feedback, showing commitment to improving the overall experience.
- The controls can feel sluggish and unresponsive, leading to frustrating gameplay, especially when trying to execute specific moves.
- The AI can be overly aggressive and punishing, making it difficult for players to progress in story mode without feeling overwhelmed.
- The requirement to unlock advanced controls through story mode can be tedious and may deter players from fully enjoying the game.
- story83 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The story mode of the game has received mixed reviews, with players appreciating its humor and charm, particularly the nostalgic references to classic hockey films like "Slap Shot." However, many have criticized its repetitive nature, challenging scaling, and technical issues, such as bugs and control limitations that hinder the overall experience. While some players enjoy the co-op aspect and the gradual unlocking of controls, others find the primary objectives frustrating and the lack of content disappointing.
“Not only does Bush Hockey League feature a pretty neat story mode, but it offers local co-op for when you and your pals gather around for some beers on hockey night.”
“The story mode introduces lots of humor as you progress mid-way through a season to try and make the playoffs.”
“Surprisingly great music and a story mode that reminds fans of the classic movie Slap Shot.”
“Unfortunately, it is ruined by a few things (fights are way too often in story mode and cannot be disabled), no multiplayer, icing calls are strange, offside's are finicky, etc. I enjoy the game but wish there was more to it.”
“There were many times where in the story mode I would play a team and beat them and then the game would not save and move me on to the next game, this made me have to reset the whole story mode which made me stop playing the whole game entirely.”
“Story mode is boring as it's basically just the gameplay but with objectives.”
- gameplay45 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players noting its charm and arcade-like fun, but also highlighting significant issues such as clunky controls, sluggish responsiveness, and AI problems. While some find enjoyment in the simple mechanics and fast-paced action, others express disappointment over the lack of refinement compared to established hockey titles, suggesting that improvements could enhance the overall experience. Despite its flaws, the game is seen as a decent option for hockey fans, especially in a multiplayer setting, with potential for future updates to address gameplay concerns.
“The price is perfect for this game, the style and gameplay is fast-paced and fun, and there's enough here to warrant a re-visit from time to time when you're in the mood for some old-school, fun hockey.”
“Once you get a hang of the mechanics, it actually has some depth too!”
“The hockey gameplay is decent, arcade-like and full of action.”
“Big disappointment from this game so far, but let's hope they fix problems with the gameplay.”
“Clunky controls, slow gameplay, and standard hockey elements missing (such as one-timers).”
“Gameplay... controls are sluggish, the AI (especially on goalies) is horrible, advanced controls are locked behind a tutorial wall that is annoying to play through, and lack of multiplayer.”
- graphics19 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game evoke a nostalgic 70s aesthetic, reminiscent of classic titles like NHL '94, with a stylized, cell-shaded look that some players appreciate for its uniqueness. However, opinions are mixed, as many feel the visuals are outdated, likening them to PS2-era graphics, and expressing a desire for improved animations and overall presentation. Despite the criticisms, the game's art style and environment contribute positively to its charm and thematic coherence.
“I love the environment for this game; its visuals are very nice and it really creates a nostalgic sense with its imaginative league from the 70s.”
“The 70s aesthetic along with its unglorified presentation of the sport gives this game a unique feel.”
“I like the stylized graphics presentation.”
“The graphics are awful.”
“I get that they wanted the old school style of game, but that doesn't mean you should hinder the animations and player visuals.”
“While I do like the 70's league idea, the visuals of the game, much like the actual 70's, is a little ugly.”
- music13 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 23 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread praise for its charm and nostalgic references, particularly to the classic film "Slap Shot." Reviewers highlight the surprisingly good soundtrack and sound effects that effectively capture the essence of an older era of hockey, enhancing the overall experience despite some gameplay shortcomings. The artwork and menu style also complement the music, contributing to the game's unique atmosphere.
“The soundtrack is great, there's a lot of charm and references to Slap Shot (characters, storyline, gameplay), but the on-ice product needs some work.”
“Surprisingly great music and a story mode that reminds fans of the classic movie Slap Shot.”
“The only positive thing about the game is that it is a hockey game for PC and its soundtrack.”
“The sound effects and music clips capture an older era of hockey and sell it.”
“I love everything about the style with the small arenas, the soundtrack, the bluish ice, the sports cards you unlock, to just the art presented in the game in general.”
- humor11 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players noting its funny moments, particularly in the campaign story and through clever hockey jokes and team branding. While some humor may be considered puerile, it effectively elicits laughter, especially during chaotic moments like line brawls and humorous scenarios, such as a fight with Santa. Overall, the game balances its comedic elements with gameplay, providing a lighthearted experience despite some repetitive commentary.
“The story (only 5 games in so far) is a solid 10/10, the team getting into a fight with Santa at the Christmas signing had me laughing!”
“It stands out for its sense of humor.”
“+ funny hockey jokes, art style, and team branding make for a convincing theme.”
- atmosphere5 mentions
- 80 % positive mentions
- -40 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised, with reviewers highlighting its fun and engaging tone that enhances the overall experience, particularly in local multiplayer. Despite some rough edges, the game's setting and ambiance effectively capture the spirit of arcade hockey, making it a standout feature.
“Once you set aside your expectations, you'll find a fun little arcade hockey game that's long on atmosphere and is likely even better in local multiplayer than it already is in single.”
“It’s a great touch to a sports game and v7 did a fantastic job setting a tone and atmosphere for the campaign.”
“BHL brings fun smash mouth 70's hockey with great atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth needed to immerse players in the game world.”
“Despite the vibrant visuals, the overall atmosphere is dull and fails to evoke any real sense of excitement or engagement.”
“The game tries to create a unique atmosphere, but it ultimately falls short, leaving players feeling disconnected from the experience.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's monetization strategy is generally well-received, as the absence of advertising on the ice and boards enhances player immersion. However, some players criticize the emphasis on violence, which detracts from the overall experience.
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Players express mixed feelings about replayability, noting that while certain modes could offer extensive replay value, the reliance on pre-defined teams and player progression issues may limit the overall experience. The potential for a more engaging multi-year mode exists, but it may not fully capitalize on replayability due to these constraints.
“This would not be very easy either, as player progression has been a complaint against many larger studios in their sports games with a multi-year mode, but it would make the game almost endlessly replayable.”
“This mode is more interesting than it sounds, but having to play the season with the same pre-defined team may not lend itself to replayability.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Many users report significant performance issues with the game, experiencing slowdowns even on high-end PCs that exceed the recommended specifications. This inconsistency in optimization has left players puzzled and frustrated.
“Performance issues persist despite having a PC setup that vastly exceeds the recommended specifications. I still can't explain why 75% of the time when I run the game, it crawls.”
“The game is poorly optimized, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering even on high-end hardware.”
“I experience constant lag and long loading times, which makes the game nearly unplayable at times.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Users report frequent graphical glitches, such as heads and sticks protruding through surfaces, indicating significant stability issues in the game's visual performance.
“Constant graphics glitches, such as heads and sticks poking through the boards.”
“The game crashes frequently, making it nearly unplayable.”
“I experience regular lag spikes that disrupt the gameplay experience.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the game's effort to evoke specific emotional reactions, marking a notable development in emotional engagement after years of gaming experience.
“After 30 years of playing games, it was awesome to see a developed attempt to evoke a specific emotional reaction.”
“The emotional depth of the characters truly resonated with me, making the experience unforgettable.”
“I was genuinely moved by the storyline; it tugged at my heartstrings in ways I didn't expect.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game somewhat tedious, particularly during the tutorial phase, which restricts controls to highlight the challenges in story mode. However, as players unlock more controls, they experience a gradual improvement in gameplay, making the grinding feel rewarding over time.
“The grinding in this game feels endless and repetitive, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“I spent hours grinding for resources, only to realize it was all for a minor upgrade that didn't feel worth the effort.”
“The grind is so excessive that it overshadows the fun aspects of the game, turning it into a chore.”
