
Release Date: September 12, 2025
The thirty-fifth installment of the hockey sports series, published by Electronic Arts. NHL 26 offers various innovations, including an ICE-Q 2.0 system, an improved Be a Pro mode, a HUT Season mode and the X-Factors feature with 28 different skills.
The sports game series titled NHL, published by Electronic Arts, was initiated by the game NHL Hockey released in 1991. NHL 26 described here is its thirty-fifth installment, prepared by the EA Vancouver studio.
NHL 26 introduces four main innovations that distinguish this title from its predecessors:
NHL 26 was built on a proven gameplay scheme, in which we play matches, leading our team to victory. We can play both alone, competing with AI, and with other players (locally or over the Internet).
Platforms:
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X/S



31GAMES
A series of ice hockey simulators based on the license of the largest American hockey league. The brand is owned by Electronic Arts, and the development is handled by EA Canada studio.
On the occasion of the announcement of NHL 26, we learned about the game's release date, target platforms, and key new features.
video games
Christian Pieniazek
August 7, 2025
Game Ratings for NHL 26 Video Game.
GamingBolt: 8 / 10 by Matthew Carmosino
There's a lot to love about this year's NHL game. From the redesigned Be A Pro mode to the enhanced NHL EDGE authenticity, it's a notable step up from previous years. NHL 26 has perhaps the best 'superstar' mode of EA's current sports lineup, which is shocking considering how stuck in the mud it's been prior to now. If you've been on the fence about EA's pro hockey series, now's the time to jump in.
Cloud Dosage: 3.8 / 5 by Jon Scarr
NHL 26 feels sharper on the ice with smarter goalies, smoother stick handling, and stars that actually stand out. Be A Pro finally shakes things up with draft pressure and career consequences, while Hockey Ultimate Team adds Cup Chase and a salary cap to keep things balanced. Franchise Mode and presentation still feel behind, but the gameplay and mode updates make this a step forward. It isn’t a huge overhaul, but hockey fans will find plenty to dig into this year.
Loot Level Chill: 8 / 10 by Chris White
EA Sports NHL 26 has made some big improvements to gameplay that become more noticeable over time, with a new Be-A-Pro mode that is better than before.