NHL 26 is all about this individuality. Setting a new standard for hockey realism, every star plays more like their real-life counterpart with the new ICE-Q 2.0 fueled by NHL EDGE positional data (NHL EDGE Puck and Player Tracking). Real-world sport data now informs player attributes and personal tendencies. Skating speed, shot power, unique behaviors and signature moves are reflected in the game, giving true hockey fans a strategic advantage. The new Goalie Crease Control System also makes netminders more responsive, with smarter positioning and quicker, more natural saves. Combined with an expanded set of X-Factors that amplify superstar abilities with unique playstyle animations and gameplay outcomes, fans will experience a deeper connection to their favorite players, whether they’re controlling them or playing against them.

The fully revamped fan-favorite Be A Pro mode gives players full control over their journey from rookie to NHL superstar. Fresh storylines, new characters, high-stakes challenges, and cutscenes make the experience more realistic and engaging than ever before. From competing in the World Juniors to the draft or working their way from the minors back to the big leagues, players will craft their own legacy on and off the ice.

The new HUT Seasons will give players an all-new, dynamic way to compete by introducing new team-building mechanics, ranked matches, and an offline mode geared for those who prefer to play at their own pace, the HUT Cup Chase. With new Heroes and Icons player cards added each season to celebrate the greatest to ever lace up their skates, plus visual upgrades that elevate every moment, players will experience this and much more in NHL 26.

EA Sports offers an in-depth look at the sweeping improvements and highly requested updates coming to Be A Pro in NHL 26 in the above Deep Dive video, featuring San Jose Sharks phenom Macklin Celebrini and professional snowboarder Craig McMorris.

This reimagined experience introduces fresh storylines, characters, challenges and cut scenes alongside a superb cast of voice actors to make Be a Pro more immersive than ever before.

Be a Pro’s new chapter-based progression system introduces real stakes, more emotion and immediate consequences, making every decision on and off the ice matter. The story begins in the semi-finals of the World Juniors, where players create their character, choose their nation and showcase their skills to boost their NHL Draft positioning. Players will experience everything from the thrill of entering an NHL locker room for the first time, to the highs of being a human highlight reel, to the lows of getting grilled at post-game pressers for a lingering dry spell — and if that keeps up, working their way back to the big league from the minors. 

Be a Pro lets players craft their personality and playstyle on the big stage. From the abilities and X Factors they use, to being a brash superstar or humble locker room hero, the journey can be as unique and dynamic as the player themselves.

Be a Pro’s revamped presentation heightens the emotions even more, with new cutscenes, cinematics and voice actors adding greater depth and truly immersing players in the story.

Players who pre-order the Deluxe Edition will receive up to seven days of early access, a multitude of perks including Matthew Tkachuk at 99 OVR as an immediate reward in NHL 25, 4600 NHL Points, HUT Starter Choice Pack and much more. All pre-order editions and information can be found here, loyalty offers with up to 10% off are also available.

EA Play members can enjoy a 10-hour early access trial starting September 5th, 2025 and other rewards including 3,000 WOC Coins and Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens. They also receive 10% off EA digital content including pre-orders, game downloads, NHL Points, and DLC.

EA Sports NHL 26 is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on September 12, 2025.