As the summer progresses, anticipation builds across the sports gaming community as new titles are announced ahead of fall release dates.
NHL 25 will be the 34th ice hockey game under EA's banner, and while each year brings updated player rosters, jerseys and small gameplay improvements, there's a general feeling among most ice hockey game fans that things have become a bit stagnant and they're turning to other games. XBOX games coming to PS5 Enjoy gaming this winter.
But with the gameplay improving, could these reviews just be an overreaction and excitement is still building for the new game's release in October?
With NHL 24, EA focused on introducing more realistic game mechanics, such as an improved exhaust engine and body-checking system. While game developers may receive negative reviews for essentially re-releasing the same game with a new roster and more shining beads of sweat, last year's title did show an attempt to improve the player's experience.
Last year also saw the introduction of HUT Moments, a new game mode that allows players to relive iconic moments from past seasons as well as the current one.
The new modes and unique match engine are much anticipated, but “most of the returning game modes are largely unchanged from the last few years,” IGN wrote in their review of the latest NHL game.
According to various player reviews, the similarity of menu design, lack of improvements in offline game modes, and long waiting times to join online games make the game less enjoyable.
NHL 24's Be a Pro falls far short of what many expect from a career mode. With no compelling storyline and no voice acting, it's a far cry from comparable games from EA's 2K. This becomes even more frustrating for players considering EA included a similar feature in “The Journey,” the career mode for older FIFA titles 17, 18 and 19.
The online game mode EASHL has its perks: it's always fun to create your own fighter and play against other created teams and friends.
But the battle pass system for upgrading gear and the long wait times to get into the game mean most players won't be able to invest time into playing that game mode.
But not every game is perfect, and if EA can strike a balance between improving gameplay and keeping game modes fresh, there's no reason for gamers not to be excited about NHL 25.
EA is currently enjoying a positive reception among American sports gamers, and considering the immense pressure on EA's shoulders to deliver the first college football game in 11 years, it's good to see them releasing a game that so many people can enjoy.
Many ice hockey fans will be hoping that there's not just an emphasis on American football this summer, and with the trailer for NHL 25 due to be released next month, hopefully the latest game in the ice hockey series will also be well-received.
