Just picked up ESPN NHL 2K5. I also had 2K4, and didn't notice too much of a difference. The game does seem a bit more balanced; there used to be a sweet spot where the game was either too easy or impossible to beat, and it seems to have been corrected. Some of the graphics are improved, and I was pleasantly surprised that the statue of Al the Octopus was reflected in the ice of Joe Louis Arena. Another nice touch: the ice still goes from smooth to scuffed, but now it's smooth again at the beginning of every period (probably due to your friendly neighborhood zamboni operator).
So, even if you have 2K4, I recommend 2K5. At least you get an updated roster.
By the way, does anyone know what the heck Sega is talking about when they say the game has "ice gals"? I mean, it's written right on the box cover. I've played this game for probably 5 hours already, and no sign of anything that resembles an "ice gal." That said, I haven't been able to spot any of the "rabid" fans they show in game's intro movie, either.
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