Articles / NHL 26 review roundup: Be A Pro mode the lone bright spot

NHL 26 review roundup: Be A Pro mode the lone bright spot

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ESPN NHL
Sep 19, 2025 3:56 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by ESPN NHL. Read the full original article here →

EA Sports has unveiled its latest installment in the NHL series with NHL 26, which promises to deliver an exhilarating experience for both casual fans and hardened hockey enthusiasts. Players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews take center stage with enhanced realism and engaging gameplay features. The graphics have received a significant upgrade, allowing for lifelike player movements and dynamic arenas that replicate the intensity of live NHL games.

The game not only focuses on the NHL teams but also pays homage to some of the best players in history. Fans can expect detailed player stats and a rich franchise mode that brings more depth to managing teams. NHL 26 aims to improve upon its predecessors by introducing new mechanics that reflect the fast-paced nature of the sport, including better puck physics and smarter AI opponents.

Moreover, the online gameplay aspect is enhanced with several new features that allow for more competition, including custom tournaments and the integration of player-specific abilities. With a focus on community engagement, EA Sports encourages fan feedback to further refine the game, promising ongoing updates and patches to improve gameplay. Overall, NHL 26 has set a high bar for hockey gaming with a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation that is sure to excite players around the globe.