Play NHL Hockey '96 Online

Game Overview

If you've ever wanted to shove an entire hockey game into your Game Boy, NHL Hockey '96 is about as close as it gets. The sprites are tiny, the rink feels about three pixels wide, and yet—somehow—it absolutely works. Within seconds you're slapping wrist shots, body-checking opponents into the boards, and groaning when the ref calls a penalty you totally didn't deserve.

Don't expect fancy animations or roster updates here. What you get instead is lightning-fast gameplay where every pass and shot feels snappy. I always go for the slap shot from way downtown—it's weirdly satisfying when one actually goes in. The AI isn't pulling any fancy dekes, but they'll punish you if you leave the goalie alone too long.

Perfect for bus rides or pretending to pay attention in class back in the day. Still holds up if you're into that raw, no-frills sports game energy.