NHL 26 is set to hit the ice in September, and we’re getting our first glimpses at what’s in store. The reveal trailer showcased some interesting additions, including new AI logic. A few have a chance to make a big impact when NHL 26 launches in September.
But what stood out among the typical marketing schtick that feels worthy of mentioning? Here are the things that stood out to me the most from the NHL 26 reveal trailer.
A Family Affair
Matthew Tkachuk is the NHL 26 cover athlete for the Standard Edition, but we learned more about the Deluxe Edition, too. The priciest version of the game features every hockey Tkachuk — Matthew, Brady, and their father, Keith, all grace the cover.
In NHL 26, it’s all about individuality. Every Tkachuk who has played in the NHL has had a distinct identity as a player, and NHL 26 aims to capture that for every player in the league. According to the trailer, we might see the AI versions of players behave much more like their real-life counterparts. If those changes come to things like EASHL Clubs, I’ll be even happier.
What’s Your Ice-Q?
EA is introducing ICE-Q 2.0 in NHL 26. The system is designed to utilize real-world data, helping players in the video game feel more like the actual NHL players. I’m always a little skeptical of new systems with catchy names in EA games. It might be a gimmick, but if it works, it should add to the NHL 26 experience.
One reason for optimism is that ICE-Q 2.0 is powered by NHL Edge, also known as analytics. Every team in the NHL uses NHL Edge, so it makes sense that it’d be present in the game. There were NHL Edge figures all over the trailer. I assume that it’ll display during replays. Having constant pop-ups during game action would be a little jarring.
New X-Factors
NHL 26 features new X-Factors that “unleash 28 new abilities”. There was no word in the trailer that these were replacing the X-Factors we saw in NHL 25, but I imagine that’s the case. It’s hard to picture over 40 X-Factors in NHL 26. But if there were, then that would be great!
X-Factors are for the best players in the game. Think Connor McDavid, Matthew Tkachuk, Quinn Hughes, and other stars. Each X-Factor has Zone Abilities that enhance what that star is best at when they’re activated.
Chase The Cup
NHL 26 Ultimate Team is adding some new features, too. HUT Seasons will presumably be similar to Seasons in games like EA Sports College Football 26 and Madden 26. Play games, win X amount of them, and earn rewards based on how much success you have.
There is also a new Cup Chase mode within Ultimate Team that allows you to add players to a roster specifically for that event. A salary cap keeps your team under control (sorry, you can’t have Crosby, Lemieux, and Gretzky—probably), and you can play either human opponents or take on the CPU.
Say Goodbye To Pricey Pond Hockey (We Think)
Be a Pro is finally getting an update, at least to the cut scenes within it. In the trailer, we saw a cut scene where your pro is heading to the stage after being drafted by the Utah Mammoth. That’s new. But there’s more than just some new cut scenes.
From the trailer, you’ll be able to start your career in the World Junior Championships if you wish. Additionally, your pro can be sent down to the AHL if you’re not performing well. Additions to Be a Pro have been long, long…long overdue, so this is all welcome news. Now, we need the ability to start in college hockey, EA. Let me end another massive Minnesota Gophers title drought!
