Fun Gameplay
NHL 26 faces many of the same challenges as other EA Sports series, aiming to please both die-hard fans and casual players while emphasizing the most profitable modes. Despite this, singleplayer fans will find themselves well served, with superb graphics and enjoyable gameplay.
Playing NHL 26 feels like a nostalgic trip, reminiscing about childhood memories sparked by movies like The Mighty Ducks. Although ice hockey may not be particularly popular in certain regions, almost every child from the 90s has played or been curious about an NHL game from EA Sports. After years of following the series, the transition to the 3D era and focus on other games kept me away, but as a fan of the NHL, I always remained curious.
Having played EA Sports FC and Madden NFL for years, I have a different perspective now as I return to NHL 26 after two generations without playing an ice hockey game. Despite the similarities in technology, philosophies, and modes among the sports series, NHL 26 offers a new and exciting experience for me.
Plenty of Singleplayer Features
Similar to Madden and FC, NHL 26 offers a mix of challenging AI, various difficulty levels, and controls catering to different player preferences. The fast-paced matches with strategic elements and realistic gameplay make NHL 26 a thrilling experience for both experienced and novice players.
The game rewards players who approach it with a realistic mindset, incorporating cinematic presentations and NHL Edge system partnership to enhance the gaming experience. With its dynamic gameplay and captivating control scheme, NHL 26 quickly draws players into the electrifying world of ice hockey.
Even though the need to monetize the game in the long run is one of the publisher’s main objectives, the producer’s job is to ensure that strong singleplayer arguments are visible. Despite the focus on Ultimate Team and World of Chel, the main online modes, a player like me can focus on playing seasons, singleplayer Ultimate Team, and Be a Pro, the most fun mode in NHL 26.
The fantasy of starting in the juniors to enter the NHL and heading towards stardom is possible in Be A Pro, a mode that can be described as a “sports RPG” similar to Madden and FC. Here, you only control your player, who must meet the coach’s objectives to improve his position on the team. You have to distribute your points, choose your X-Factors, and overall, it’s a mode that focuses on putting you on the ice playing.
I would even say that Be a Pro in NHL 26 can be more fun and effective than its counterparts in Madden and FC. You spend less time in those interaction moments that can break the rhythm of fun, as management is done in menus and you distribute points in a more dynamic way. It’s a Chel RPG that I will play for the next few months as it is helping me discover even more about the NHL.
As you can see, this is a specific perspective on NHL 26 from a player who is returning to the series after several years. However, I am having a lot of fun and will continue to enjoy this electrifying digital version of Chel, which will accompany me over the months. Next year, my perspective may change, but modes like Be A Pro, the graphic quality, and the gameplay have made me a fan.
– Graphic quality
– Entertaining offline singleplayer modes, like Be a Pro
– Fun gameplay on the ice
– Constant information that dynamically teaches how to play
– Ultimate Team includes satisfying singleplayer activities
– Occasional animation issues
– Goalkeeper behavior may leave something to be desired
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