NHL 25 brings some welcome changes to gameplay, particularly in AI and match realism, but as a whole, it feels more like a cautious step forward than a revolution. While the graphics and gameplay have improved, the game still lags behind the competition. The biggest disappointment remains the stagnation of game modes, especially Be A Pro, which has...


NHL 25
2024 EA Sports58Mediocre
Playtime
LongIt typically takes about 50 hours to finish the game.
Playable on
Included with
- EA Play
- Xbox Game PassStandard
Game modes
- 2–4 players
- 2–4 players
- 2–6 players
- 2–12 players
Details
- Launch
- October 4, 2024
- Developer
- EA Vancouver
- Publisher
- EA Sports
- Themes
Overview

From the modernized skating of Next-Gen Vision Control and an overhaul of Chel’s AI player movement to authentic Reactive Action animations — experience true hockey intelligence.
Screenshots
Reception
- Metacritic66from 18 reviews
- OpenCritic67from 14 reviews
The abandonment of the older-generation console versions does allow NHL 25 to be more fluid in terms of gameplay. The reactive actions are a good idea and add a little more realism, although they still need to be balanced. Overall, and despite the additions to the franchise world, the experience remains rather similar to last year's edition. Which is...
NHL 25 isn't great. While there are welcome changes this time, almost all of them are cosmetic, or menu-oriented. Ultimately, that's what this iteration amounts to: a hyper-fixation on presentational components. Where are the new game modes? Improvements to the controls? Sure the game looks great, but wouldn't it be awesome if it played great as we...
For being the first current-gen game in the NHL series, the result is bittersweet: there have been undeniable steps forward in both graphics, simulation and gameplay, but the same cannot be said on the content and mode side. EA Vancouver probably needed more courage and time to come up with something new: for now, NHL 25 still remains a prisoner of...
EA SPORTS NHL 25 is a great example of how a franchise can reinvent itself without losing its essence, while still being challenging and fun. Balancing innovation with respect for tradition, the game offers a complete and immersive experience, whether for those looking for a deep hockey simulation or for those who prefer more casual and fast-paced games,...














