EA Sports has finally unveiled a detailed look at the gameplay for NHL 26, following last week’s announcement of the cover athletes. While fans were eager to see the game in action, the real news lies beneath the surface. The standout feature is EA’s partnership with the NHL, utilizing the league’s data collected through NHL Edge to enhance AI player positioning and player control. This data feeds into EA’s ICE 2.0 system, promising a smarter on-ice experience. AI-controlled players will now be better at anticipating plays, positioning themselves at the right spots at the right times, making it easier for players to execute well-timed passes or shots.
For instance, expect Alexander Ovechkin to be in his prime power play position, ready to fire from the top of the circle.
But EA isn’t stopping at AI improvements. Goalies are getting a major upgrade this year too. Over 80 new save animations are being added, allowing for more realistic goalie movements and reactions, making them feel like their real-life counterparts. Another important change comes with the reworking of X-Factors, which are now more strategic, visible, and consistent. This should give them a more significant impact on gameplay, adding an extra layer of strategy for players to explore.
While these sound like exciting changes, the true test will come when the game hits shelves on September 12, 2025. Will the AI improvements work as advertised? Will the new goalie animations feel as natural as promised? Only time will tell, but NHL fans are eager to find out.