NHL 2K9 brings back the pick-up and play aspect to the Hockey world with easy-to-learn controls, new advance, hybrid control Schemes for the Veterans of the series. The series has been updated with new stick handling moves, more superstar moves added to the list from 2K8, enhanced skating engine, enhanced checking, brand new fighting engine, hit by puck collisions, blocked shots, user-controlled Stanley Cup celebrations, playoff beards and more than 1,400 new gameplay animations.