As part of the NHL 26 cover reveal, EA Sports and the NHL announced a partnership that brings official NHL EDGE data directly into the game, offering the same information coaches and players rely on in real life.
This data integration is made possible through the new ICE-Q 2.0 system, which uses puck and player tracking from every NHL arena to shape gameplay. With millions of data points powering everything from skating acceleration to shot power and goalie reactions, players in NHL 26 are designed to move and perform like their real-world counterparts.
Signature skating strides, unique shot styles and strategic tendencies are informed by analytics used at the highest level, making this the first time in the series that advanced NHL team data has been used to influence player attributes and decision-making. The result is a digital hockey experience that mirrors the speed, skill and personality of the game on the ice.
“The energy from the NHL is electric, with its diehard fans and the talent and physicality of the athletes. It’s our job to translate that energy from the ice to the screen and make it as realistic as possible,” said Cam Weber, President, EA SPORTS. “By harnessing the very same data points the NHL uses to inform all sorts of game-time strategies, EA SPORTS is doubling down on innovations and partnerships to make the most true-to-life reflection of hockey possible.”
“The partnership with EA SPORTS and NHL EDGE is about more than just numbers, it’s about bringing the soul of our game to life for a new generation,” said Brian Jennings, NHL Chief Branding Officer and Senior Executive Vice President. “We’ve spent years developing our best-in-class Puck and Player Tracking system to help grow the game and create new fan experiences. By placing league-grade analytics in the hands of every fan, we’re deepening the connection between the real NHL and Chel, and setting a new standard for sports gaming immersion.”
