Description

From the publisher's website:

Inside the Crease (ITC) hockey is a tabletop simulation of the fast-paced game of pro hockey. In keeping with the pace of the sport of hockey this game uses double-sided Fast Action Cards (FAC) to move the game right along.

From the first face off players will perform on the ice like no other simulation out there. Skater’s cards are broken down with four separate offensive columns based on whether your team is at even strength, in the power play, shorthanded or the column for rebounds and great feed passes. These cards don’t just tell you whether a player takes a shot but the quality of the shot as well. Some guys will be shooting at the twine with quality shots most of the time while others will just be putting the puck towards the net. The slick-passing skaters are not left out here as a good play maker on the ice can set up much higher shooting opportunities. Players are also rated on the frequency of giving away the puck. In ITC a bone-headed pass that loses the puck isn’t just a turnover it can be a chance for a breakaway for the opposition.

Defense is covered equally in depth with four separate defensive ratings to set players apart. The ability to takeaway the puck, block shots, check players off the puck and a general defensive ability all can force the action of the offense. You will be able to “see” a great defensive play stop a would be shot. Blocking a shot or forcing a shot wide with a defensive stop can be a goal saver. Controlling loose pucks can be a real game turner in ITC with this ability captured in the ratings as well.

No hockey game would be complete without the ability to capture the penalty aspect. In ITC the players are not just rated for penalty frequency but the type as well. Whether it be a minor, major or misconduct you will know when it happens. If a fight breaks out you will watch the two combatants head to the box. When a minor is called you will get an actual penalty name (elbowing, holding, etc) for added flavor.

The goalies are created with the ability to stop shots in the six different shooting categories. You will be crushed to watch a weak slapshot trickle through for a goal but be ecstatic watching your goalie thwart an excellent scoring opportunity. In ITC the ability of the goalie to control the action after a shot is also taken into consideration. You will see your goalie simply give up a rebound shot, hold the puck or be able to pass it off to a teammate.

If strategy is your game ITC delivers with a simple and unobtrusive way to handle your coaching choices. If you push more forecheckers up the ice for better scoring chances you are leaving yourself open on the back end. It is your choice how to play it.