After months of speculation, leaks, and fan complaints, EA has finally released the trailer for their annual ice hockey game, NHL 26. The trailer reveals key details, including the release date, special editions of the game, and a few gameplay features. Here’s a full breakdown of what to expect from NHL 26.
What’s New In NHL 26?
The next installment of the NHL series introduces notable enhancements. As shown in the trailer, the simulation has been significantly overhauled thanks to ICE-Q 2.0 technology, powered by NHL EDGE positional data. With this, expect your favorite superstars to behave closer to real life.
EA calls it a game-changer, since real-world data is now a deciding factor for various player aspects, such as skating speeds, shot power, unique behavior, and signature moves. There’s also a fresh Goalie Crease Control System — boosting netminder fluidity with more natural saves and smart positioning.
In addition to this, EA has finally listened to the fans and bumped the Be A Pro mode, making it more realistic and engaging. Expect new storylines, characters, high-stakes challenges, and cutscenes to have an ultimate hockey experience.
When it comes to Ultimate Team, all-new HUT seasons have been introduced, which rely on team-building mechanics, competing in online matches, and a new offline cup called the HUT Cup Chase. While EA is hyping up all the features like they’re game-changing, take them with a grain of salt until the full release.
NHL 26 Release Date And Platforms
The game officially releases on September 12, 2025, which is relatively early for an NHL game. The previous titles have typically followed the trend of being released in October.
NHL 26 will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X consoles, excluding Nintendo Switch and PC. The absence of NHL 26 from Steam and the Switch suggests that, once again, we aren’t going to see an NHL title on a handheld machine.
Pre-Order Details And Bonuses Revealed
Pricing, special editions, and pre-order bonuses have also been revealed. The standard edition sits at $69.99, and if you plan to pre-order, you will receive the following bonus.
- HUT NHL Player Pack
- World of Chel Battle Pass XP Boost (x2)
- Matthew Tkachuk 99 OVR item (available immediately in NHL 25 with digital pre-order)
This is it for the standard edition; however, if you order the deluxe edition, you’ll get a whole lotta gas. Here are all the bonuses included in the Deluxe Edition:
- 7-day early access (starting September 5)
- 4600 NHL Points
- HUT Starter Choice Pack (83 OVR)
- HUT NHL Player Pack
- HUT Icon Choice Pack (86 OVR)
- HUT Heroes Choice Pack (84 OVR)
- Matthew Tkachuk 99 OVR item* (available immediately in NHL 25 with digital pre-order)
- World of Chel Vanity Set
- World of Chel Battle Pass XP Boost (x2)
Finally, if you’re an EA Play member, expect a few discounts and extra goodies.
- 10-hour Early Access Trial starting September 5
- 10 percent off digital pre-orders, NHL Points, and more
- Monthly World of Chel Pack for six months
- Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens
- 3,000 World of Chel Coins
While that’s everything we know so far, more information will be revealed as we approach the release date. At $69.99, it better deliver what the trailer promises — otherwise, it’s a tough sell.
