[3] Reviews for NHL FaceOff 98 were wildly divergent, with critics expressing contradicting opinions on numerous aspects of the game.

too easy even on the hardest setting, but their co-reviewer Kelly Rickards complained that it is frustratingly difficult.

[6] While GameSpot's Jeff Gerstmann and GamePro said the on-ice sound effects were well done,[10][15] Kujawa and IGN's early review both said they lack excitement and atmosphere.

[16] GamePro summarized, "A roster of strong improvements nicely tunes up this year's outing, but NHL '98 still outclasses it in almost every category.

"[6] Gerstmann gave a more dismal assessment, calling the game "simply average".