Eastside Hockey Manager (video game)
Eastside Hockey Manager (EHM) is a series of ice hockey management simulation video games originally developed by Finnish studio RSI Sports. The series distinguishes itself with its depth of database, realistic player development, intricate tactics, and comprehensive scouting reports.
The initial versions of the game were available as freeware and shareware titles. The first commercially released version, Eastside Hockey Manager 2005, was published by Sega and released in 2005. Subsequent releases followed, with Eastside Hockey Manager 2007 being the last entry developed by RSI Sports before the development team was disbanded.
In 2015, Sega revived the series with Eastside Hockey Manager, a re-release based on the 2007 game, but with updated databases and further improvements. This release was followed by several further iterations, continually updating the game's rosters, adding new features, and refining the gameplay experience.
The core gameplay of Eastside Hockey Manager revolves around managing all aspects of a professional (or semi-professional) ice hockey team. This includes hiring staff, scouting players, developing training regimes, setting tactics, negotiating contracts, managing finances, and ultimately, competing in games. The game features a vast, editable database that includes teams, leagues, and players from around the world. Players can manage teams in numerous leagues, from major professional leagues like the NHL and KHL to lower-tier leagues and junior programs.
A key element of the game is the detailed player development system, where player attributes evolve based on training, game performance, and individual coaching. This system requires careful management and long-term planning to build a successful team. Tactics are also crucial, allowing players to customize their team's playing style and react to different in-game situations.
Eastside Hockey Manager is known for its high degree of realism and its appeal to hardcore hockey fans who enjoy the intricacies of team management.