If you’re hoping for a major overhaul in EA’s NHL 25, temper those expectations. Franchise and Be A Pro modes are nearly identical to NHL 24, with only minor adjustments to modes like HUT and World of Chel. NHL 25’s biggest evolution comes in its gameplay mechanics and presentation. Being EA’s first NHL game made exclusively for next-gen consoles, it showcases slightly sharper graphics and improved animations that bring a closer, more lifelike feel to players on the ice. Although improvements are incremental, NHL 25 still delivers a refined experience for hockey fans.
Next-Gen Graphics and Sapien Technology The most immediately noticeable change in NHL 25 is its graphical fidelity, aided by EA’s Sapien Technology. Players’ faces and body types are closer to real-life likenesses, while animations capture a higher degree of realism in moments of impact and puck control. Though the visual upgrade is welcome, it doesn’t eliminate the uncanny facial animations and low-res crowd graphics that persist in the series.
Reactive AI and Skill-Based Shots NHL 25’s AI has seen improvements, though “overhaul” might be a stretch. Non-player characters respond more naturally to quick passes or body positioning, giving a slightly enhanced sense of realism in play. A notable gameplay addition, skill-based one-timers, gives players direct control over timing when attempting these shots. The new vision control feature also allows for better situational awareness both offensively and defensively, adding strategic depth to gameplay.
Adjustable Gameplay Sliders and Familiar Frustrations The game’s customization options make it accessible for both casual players and dedicated hockey enthusiasts. You can adjust sliders to automate gameplay for a more arcade-like experience or maintain the sim-like feel by managing inputs manually. However, some frustrations remain, particularly with the complexity of wrist shots, which demand thumbstick precision that’s tricky for such a fundamental move.
Returning Pressure System and HUT Wildcard Mode EA keeps the successful pressure system from NHL 24, rewarding prolonged time near the opposing net by tiring out defenders. HUT’s new Wildcard mode introduces a fresh challenge structure with updated rewards, while streamlining XP progression for player upgrades. These additions enhance HUT, but other modes like Franchise and Be A Pro remain largely the same, with only minor adjustments to player negotiation and menu layouts.
Minor Tweaks, Same Core Game With its refined AI and gameplay polish, NHL 25 presents itself as a steady improvement over its predecessor. However, for those who hoped for revamped modes, NHL 25 may fall short. The latest installment refines familiar systems and introduces small improvements, but it’s unlikely to feel groundbreaking to longtime fans.
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