Sports Interactive have proved time and time again that they are the supreme rulers of sports management. Their latest title, Football Manager 2005 is a proud testimony to that fact. However, veering away from football once again, SI has announced the release of their annual hockey management title, which will be published by Sega.

Eastside Hockey Manager 2005 has a vast database of 32,000 players and staff. Even more impressive are the player details, with over 50 separate attributes assigned to every individual. 

"Having gained a lot of feedback from the fans of last years NHL Eastside Hockey release, we have listened to what they have had to say and have reacted accordingly," commented Miles Jacobson, Managing Director of Sports Interactive.

The new EHM has been totally overhauled for this year’s release. New features include: an advanced scouting procedure, better feedback on trade negotiations, expanded international tournaments, extended statistics, a 'Hot or Not' report feature, and a new 2D snapshot view to reveal player positioning second-by-second whilst coaching the game.

With a team of such reputation behind it, Eastside Hockey Manager 2005 looks to once again be an essential purchase for all hockey fans. A summer release is mooted.

Adam Shirley