What makes the game an instant classic? Although good graphics doesn't guarantee a good game, great graphics goes a long way toward making an ice hockey game an action-packed, "total immersion" experience. And immersion is what Faceoff! offers in spades. Even more so than Konami's classic Blade of Steel, Faceoff! offers very fluid controls, excellent player animations, and just a lot of atmosphere -- including a very good fighting interface for this essential part of real-life hockey. There are some coaching options which are adequate, although of course not as extensive as complex hockey sims such as Hockey League Simulator. Faceoff! delivers a great you-are-there experience that all hockey fans will enjoy. Two thumbs up, way up!