EA Sports NHL 26 to feature NHL EDGE data in gameplay

The way hockey fans play video games might be as detailed as it ever has before.

On Monday, EA Sports announced that the partnership with the National Hockey League has improved to the point where the latest edition of the longest-running hockey video game series, NHL 26, will feature official NHL EDGE data.

NHL EDGE features state-of-the-art player and puck tracking that is accessible to players, teams, and fans, with infrared technology and cameras being used in all 32 arenas in the league. Now, the collaboration between the NHL and EA Sports will power the new ICE-Q 2.0 gameplay in the upcoming edition of “Chel,” giving users a new sense of realism never before seen in the series.

“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,” Cam Weber, President, EA Sports, said in a release. “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.”

NHL EDGE tracks data points into the millions, including a player’s speed, acceleration, shot power, and selection, as well as the type of saves goaltenders will make in particular game situations.

“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,” NHL Chief Branding Officer and Senior Executive Vice President Brian Jennings said. “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.”

ICE-Q 2.0 will have noticeable differences between superstar athletes, with each being able to utilize particular strengths that might be unique to them. It provides an authenticity to the product, allowing gamers the chance to really play like their heroes in the real world.

NHL 26 is available on Sept. 12. Those who pre-order the Deluxe Edition will be allowed to play the game on Sept. 5.