The latest entry in EA Sports NHL series is here. With plenty of improvements to gameplay and a fun Be-A-Pro mode, there’s lots to like about NHL 26. In fact, you can can read our full review of NHL 26, right here.
We got a chance to learn more about how EA gains feedback to improve various facets of the game; how the cover star gets chosen; how the NHL Edge partnership came together; and more. Our NHL 26 interview with Creative Director Mike Inglehart is full of insight, and we hope you enjoy reading.
NHL 26 interview: Where do you start when it comes to gathering player feedback?
Player feedback is paramount to crafting the NHL series, and we use a range of methods to collect it. There are dedicated user research groups within EA SPORTS that help us both identify the most requested features and test new ones early in development to get feedback and inform our product tuning. Our community team also connects daily with players across forums and social channels, giving us valuable, real-time insight. We truly try to leave no stone unturned when it comes to player feedback.
How is the decision made as to what to focus on in the next entry of the series?
Deciding what to focus on each year is a collaborative process that blends player feedback, internal vision, and technical opportunity. We start by reviewing feedback from our community and playtesters, as well as studying gameplay data and trends across the sport. From there, we weigh which ideas will have the most impact on player experience and align best with our long-term vision for the franchise. Ultimately, we prioritize features that both move the series forward and deliver the most value to our players.
Was there anything specific you wanted to include this year that you haven’t done before?
We were able to incorporate everything we set out to accomplish into NHL 26, but there are always lists of new things we look forward to building. Each year, we craft a unique product vision and shape features against that vision, with player feedback helping to fuel our direction.
NHL 26 interview: What factors went into choosing the cover star for NHL 26?
Lots of different aspects feed into who is featured on the cover and Matthew embodies many of the features we’re focusing on in NHL 26. As a two-time Stanley Cup champion, he’s well deserving on so many levels. His unique play style and leadership on the ice connect perfectly with our Superstar vision for this year and focus on individuality on the ice. That ties into both ICE-Q 2.0 and the changes we have made to X-Factors and their ability now to truly bring game-changing impact to the ice. Having a cover athlete who embodies the product’s vision for the year is always top of mind, and Matthew is a great fit for NHL 26.
The NHL Edge partnership is so exciting, especially as someone who can’t wait to see it implemented in game. How did that come about?
Our partnership with NHL EDGE developed through a shared vision with the league to bring a new level of authenticity to hockey gaming. We’ve always wanted to bridge the gap between real NHL action and the virtual experience, and NHL EDGE’s puck and player tracking data made that possible. Working closely with the NHL, we designed a system to bring this data into the game in a way that feels meaningful for the player. It was a collaborative effort, with both sides focused on creating something truly groundbreaking for fans.
Is there a particular mode from other EA sports titles that you would love to include in the future that we haven’t seen yet?
One of the big benefits of being part of the EA SPORTS team is the ability to speak with each of the respective teams within the group. Right now, there is nothing specifically unique to call out, but some of the recent work on College Football around the pageantry and presentation of each university has definitely impressed us.
I’ve always felt like the NHL series gets it right with its gameplay, and the improvements are always noticeable with each new title. What new feature in the gameplay are you most excited to see players enjoy?
We appreciate the compliment on the gameplay – it’s always great to hear that feedback, as we put a ton of time and passion into every release. The entire gameplay package is really where my excitement lies for NHL 26. From skating and shooting attributes powered by NHL EDGE, which make every player feel truly unique, to the 22 new AI tendencies that change how teams and superstars attack the ice, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Our X-Factor update adds even more, with abilities that now have real game-changing impact, and the new Goalie Crease Control System brings our netminders to a new level of awareness and capability. We can’t wait for players to experience all these changes on the ice.
EA Sports NHL 26 is out September 12 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
