Electronic Arts is set to release NHL 26 on September 12, a month earlier than previous franchise entries, as part of a strategy to build momentum ahead of the National Hockey League’s 2025-26 season opener. The game will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S platforms.
This year’s edition introduces notable technological upgrades, including ICE-Q 2.0—a gameplay system powered by NHL EDGE data to better replicate player behavior, such as skating speed and shot power. EA also confirmed the return of Be A Pro mode, which will receive its “biggest update since NHL 21,” along with changes to Goalie Crease Control for more realistic netminder movements.
Subscribers to EA Play and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be granted a 10-hour early trial, while deluxe edition pre-orders will unlock the game a full week ahead of official launch. “NHL 26 is the most true-to-life experience we’ve ever built,” said Mike Inglehart, Creative Director at EA Sports.
The standard edition is priced at $69.99 and includes digital bonuses such as 500 NHL Points and a 99 OVR Matthew Tkachuk HUT card. The Deluxe Edition, retailing for $99.99 (discounted to $89.99 during the pre-order window), adds 4,600 NHL points and a HUT Starter Choice Pack.
EA’s decision to move up the release date appears aimed at maximizing exposure during the buildup to the new NHL season, set to begin October 7. With new features and early access incentives, the publisher is positioning NHL 26 as a major installment for long-time fans and new players alike.
Source: EA