NHL 26 is set to deliver one of the most authentic hockey experiences the series has ever seen. Launching worldwide on September 12, 2025, the game is coming exclusively to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. This year’s cover features back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Matthew Tkachuk, representing the competitive edge and passion at the heart of the sport.
Secure your copy today at Best Buy Canada! All pre-orders come with bonus NHL Points, a HUT Pack, and more giving you the perfect head start to kick off your season.
NHL 26 details
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S
Developer(s): EA Vancouver
Publisher(s): Electronic Arts
Genre: Sports
Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)
Sharper gameplay with ICE-Q 2.0 and NHL EDGE Data
One of the biggest changes in NHL 26 comes from ICE-Q 2.0, now powered by official NHL EDGE puck and player tracking data. This technology brings real-world skating speeds, shot power, and player tendencies directly into the game. For the first time, the same analytics used in NHL arenas are shaping how stars perform on the virtual ice.
This means players move and react more like their real-life counterparts. Acceleration, top speed, and shooting styles feel more authentic, and signature habits like sharp-angle shots or aggressive forechecks stand out during matches. Whether you are in Franchise Mode, Be A Pro, or online, every matchup feels unique.
The result is smarter AI, more lifelike line dynamics, and matchups that evolve as you adjust tactics. No two games should feel the same, making strategy and preparation more important than ever.
Goaltending and presentation upgrades on the ice
Goaltending takes a major step forward in NHL 26 with the new Crease Control System. Over 80 new animations give goalies quicker recovery moves and more realistic reactions to deflections and broken plays. Smarter positioning, improved poke checks, and tighter post coverage make netminders more reliable than ever. You will even notice subtle touches like emotional reactions after goals, adding more personality to each game.
Presentation also gets a boost with dynamic replays and stat-driven overlays. You will see skating speeds, shot percentages, and even faceoff win probabilities update in real time. Broadcast-style cameras and multi-story replay packages help big moments shine, whether it is a highlight-reel save or a Gordie Howe hat trick. Together, these changes make every shift look and feel closer to an authentic NHL broadcast.
A cinematic overhaul for be a Pro
Be A Pro has been completely reimagined in NHL 26, delivering the biggest overhaul the mode has seen in years. Your journey now begins at the World Juniors, grounding your career in one of hockey’s most iconic tournaments. From there, you’ll move through the draft, into the locker room, and eventually onto the ice for defining NHL moments.
This time around, Be A Pro is fully cinematic, with voiced dialogue and expressive character animations that make conversations with coaches, teammates, and media feel alive. Cutscenes highlight key milestones like your first NHL goal, a playoff run, or the ultimate prize the Stanley Cup.
Decisions also matter more than ever. Dialogue options and off-ice choices shape your reputation, relationships, and career path. Whether you play with confidence and flair or lead with steady teamwork, your personality has as much impact as your stats. With stat-driven replays and season-long story packages reinforcing your progress, every career feels like a unique journey.
NHL 26 pre-order bonuses at Best Buy Canada
When you pre-order NHL 26 at Best Buy Canada, you’ll receive bonus content to give you a head start on the ice. NHL 26 pre-order bonuses include 500 NHL Points, a HUT NHL Player Pack, and a World of Chel Battle Pass XP Boost (x2). These rewards will help strengthen your Hockey Ultimate Team lineup and provide an early boost in World of Chel.
Digital codes will be emailed within 48 hours of launch, making sure you can jump right into the action as soon as the game releases. Quantities are limited, so pre-ordering at Best Buy Canada ensures you won’t miss out on these extras when NHL 26 arrives this September.
Get ready for the hockey season with NHL 26 at Best Buy Canada
NHL 26 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting entries in the series yet. With ICE-Q 2.0 and NHL EDGE Data powering more realistic gameplay, goalies that finally feel reliable under pressure, and a completely reimagined Be a Pro mode, this year’s release delivers major improvements across the board.
Pre-ordering at Best Buy Canada ensures you’ll be ready when the puck drops on September 12, 2025. You’ll also secure valuable pre-order bonuses, including 500 NHL Points, a HUT NHL Player Pack, and a World of Chel Battle Pass XP Boost to kickstart your season.
I’ve been a fan of EA’s NHL series since NHL Hockey on the Sega Genesis back in 1991, and the changes in NHL 26 feel like some of the biggest steps forward yet. Starting Be a Pro at the World Juniors, paired with smarter AI and broadcast-style presentation, makes this year’s release especially exciting for long-time fans like me.
Don’t wait until game day! Pre-order NHL 26 at Best Buy Canada today and be ready to hit the ice with an early advantage.
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