The folks at EA Canada and EA Bucharest have promised that next month’s NHL 26 will be the most realistic game in the series thus far. Of course, that’s the hope and part of the sales pitch for most, if not all, of these games. However, there are a couple of systems that are poised to make a notable difference this time around, and they’re referred to as NHL Edge and ICE-Q 2.0.
If you’ve never heard of it before, NHL Edge is a system that the National Hockey League uses to track real life performances and in-game events. It’s done through a series of special cameras that are set up in each team’s barn, then used to track the on-ice action. For the first time, this analytics data (featuring puck and player tracking) will be placed into the hands of gamers, and will be used to make NHL 26 feel more realistic than ever before.
“The NHL EDGE system tracks millions of data points, from skating acceleration and top speed to shot power, shot location and save types, all of which now inform on-ice behavior in NHL 26. ICE Q 2.0 powered by NHL EDGE ensures the in-game action mirrors the intensity and individuality of the NHL’s best.”
With ICE-Q 2.0 and NHL Edge integration, players will perform and react differently, allowing superstars to feel like the elite players that they are. Personal tendencies will be reflected in-game, along with strengths and weaknesses, as well as differentiators like skating speed, shot strength and the like. Not to mention signature play styles, as well as individual goalie tendencies and reactions.
“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.”
NHL 26 will be released onto PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles on September 12th. However, those who get the Deluxe Edition will receive up to 7 days’ worth of early access, beginning on the 5th. That, as well as other benefits.