For its seventh appearance on PlayStation 2, the NHL 2K series introduces a new control scheme designed to simplify the complicated moves associated with previous installments. Other changes include several refinements to the presentation, with new crowd animations, pre-game introductions, and game summaries. Randy Hahn and Drew Remenda handle the new play-by-play and color commentary, respectively, and the on-ice action incorporates additional animations for more lifelike displays of athleticism. The 2K Beats soundtrack features such artists as Pennywise, Bad Religion, the Offspring, NOFX, the Ramones, Inner Circle, Mastodon, Operation Ivy, and High on Fire.