EA Sports Aims to Bring Authenticity to NHL 24
The NHL development team at EA Sports is dedicated to recreating the fast-paced and intense sport of professional hockey in its video games. With NHL 24, the team aims to deliver numerous updates that will make the game feel more authentic than ever before.
The Exhaust Engine and Goalie Fatigue
A key focus in NHL 24 is the Exhaust Engine system, which determines player performance based on stamina and rewards offensive players for attacking. The new Goalie Fatigue system ensures that goalies aren’t as effective on the first shot of a power play compared to follow-up shots. Goalie fatigue levels change as play progresses, allowing goalies to catch their breath during long stretches without action. Every missed opportunity on defense increases the difficulty for goalies to save the puck.
This introduces a new goal-scoring meta, where tiring actions such as multiple shots on goal, extended time in the offensive zone, and passes across the crease drain the goalie’s stamina. The goalie’s stamina bar is visible, providing players with a clear indication of the situation. To counteract this, goalies have new highlight-reel save animations to increase their chances of stopping pucks. The game also includes updated controls for playing as the goalie in player-lock modes, making it more intuitive. There’s even a new Instinct minigame to improve shot prediction and save ability.
Sustained Pressure and Revamped Defense
The Sustained Pressure system in NHL 24 rewards offenses for spending prolonged periods attacking in the offensive zone. Teams can build up the sustained pressure meter through puck possession, key hits, and shots on goal. To balance this, the defense has new tools, including a revamped checking system with reduced penalty risk for shoves and a lesser impact on the opposing team’s stamina. The game showcases various satisfying checks into boards and benches, including new checking animations and ragdoll physics.
Performing checks in NHL 24 is as simple as flicking the stick, but the game also offers an all-new control refresh option. The Total Control layout allows for accessible and intuitive execution of highlight-reel moves, including fakes, passes, and dekes. For veteran players who prefer the old controls, the legacy control scheme is still available. The Vision Passing system enables quick one-touch passing to facilitate swift puck movement across the ice.
Exciting Game Modes and Improved Presentation
In terms of game modes, NHL 24 introduces a Battle Pass to the World of Chel, featuring both free and premium levels with vanity and utility items. The creation zone has also been streamlined for a better user experience. The storefront now allows players to purchase the specific gear they want without relying on loot box drops. EASHL offers a 16-game path to the playoffs with a do-or-die format, where progress earns points and losses result in elimination. Ultimate Team mode features HUT Moments, allowing players to recreate historic hockey moments.
NHL 24 enhances its presentation with over 75 new goal celebrations, updated camera angles, lighting effects, and dynamic rink boards that allow for personalized player banners. The crowd atmosphere has also been improved through various events and actions, adding to the overall immersion. Additionally, Cheryl Pounder, an experienced Winter Olympics commentator, joins the broadcast booth.
Cross-Platform Play and Cale Makar as the Cover Athlete
Like other EA Sports games, NHL 24 enables cross-platform play with HUT, World of Chel, and EASHL across a single generation. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S players can play together, while PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players have their own crossplay league. Crossplay improves matchmaking quality and reduces wait times. NHL 24’s cover athlete is Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche. The game is set to release on October 6 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The X-Factor Edition offers exclusive bonuses and early access.