4. Hit the Ice (Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, Turbografx 16, Taito 1990)

Prior to the days of NBA Jam, American gaming company, Williams, released a Hockey game similar to Midway’s classic. 2 skaters and a goalie make up your team and it’s up to you to get the puck in the opposition’s net by any means necessary. Hack, slash, punch, and kick your way down the ice while avoiding obstacles such as broken beer bottles, octopi, and various other objects that any true hockey fan would have in their possession.

Taito was responsible for porting the Hit the Ice arcade game to consoles, and in my personal opinion, the Sega Genesis version seems to be the most faithful adaptation. Unfortunately, NES owners were left out in the cold as that version was scratched late in its development cycle, but not all was lost. A prototype cart had been found in Spain of all places, and thanks to modern technology, the rom is readily available to download and play on your favorite emulator (or Everdrive). This version is quite different than any other as it includes a “Quest” mode that blends in some creative role-playing elements. Whichever version you’re playing, make sure to grab a buddy and case of brews, and you’re sure to have a fun time.