First look: NHL Rivals 2004

Microsoft has officially unveiled NHL Rivals 2004, its first hockey game for the Xbox. In development internally at Microsoft Game Studios, NHL Rivals 2004 will feature a variety of modes, including a tournament mode where players can participate in a tournament featuring up to 16 teams, as well as a rivalry mode where players can engage in a grudge match between historically rival teams. In addition, players out on the ice can specialize in a certain role, such as sniper, enforcer, or agitator, and have abilities unique to that role. Season and playoff modes are also planned for the game, as is Xbox Live support, which will feature stat tracking, leader boards, win/loss records, ranked and nonranked play, and more.

"The popularity of NHL hockey is based on the intense rivalries that teams and fans have with each other," said Kevin Browne, sports studio manager at Microsoft Game Studios. "NHL Rivals 2004 has captured the thrill and excitement of those rivalries. Gamers will be able to experience their own hockey rivalries through intense, competitive play, whether that be in single-player mode or with others around the world via Xbox Live."

NHL Rivals 2004 is scheduled for release this fall.