EA Sports’ NHL franchise officially makes its Frostbite debut. According to the publishing giant, NHL 22‘s jump to the new engine makes for the series’ “most visually distinct upgrade to date.” This year’s game brings “improved environments, player details and lighting effects” along with the addition of Madden‘s player weapon system, Superstar X-Factors.
“NHL 22 brings out the superstar in players, giving them the ability to deke like Auston Matthews or one-time it like Alex Ovechkin as they climb the ranks to the Stanley Cup,” said Sean Ramjagsingh, Vice President and GM at EA Sports in a release. “This year is a breakthrough year for hockey as the Frostbite engine makes its EA Sports NHL franchise debut, making NHL 22 the biggest leap forward in graphics and game play in franchise history.”
NHL 22 Visuals and Gameplay
NHL 22 features overhauled player likenesses and uniform micro-details as well as environmental effects like skate spray; all in higher resolution. As far as gameplay goes, NHL 22 features “new advancements in spatial awareness” that allows players to track and react to the on-ice action. Other visual upgrades include new stat overlays integrated into the action and an all-new augmented reality broadcast package.
Superstar X-Factors
As in Madden, the Superstar X-Factor system attempts to make the game’s players feel distinctly like their real-life counterparts. NHL 22 aims to use the mechanic to make the most elite players on the ice stand out from the rest. In addition to regular gameplay, the X-Factor system flows throughout all modes in NHL 22. Including, World of Chel, Be A Pro, Franchise, and Hockey Ultimate Team (HUT).
NHL 22 Game Modes
Be A Pro returns with a redesigned progression system (that includes Superstar X-Factors). Additionally, the mode attempts to bring players deeper into the game with multi-season storylines and “the ability to enhance characters based on skill and play style.” World of Chel also showcases a new hub for a more streamlined experience. This includes a revamped Party Flow that makes jumping from one game to another with friends an easier experience.
X-Factors are embedded throughout NHL 22‘s Franchise mode. From pro and amateur scouting, to line chemistry with teammates, to free agent signings. Players can build their own dynasty from the ground up. Not to mention, they can even choose to start out as the NHL’s newest expansion team, the Seattle Kraken, or add a 33rd team to the league and draft with them.
In “early December,” a new game update will add the long-awaited (and long overdue) roster sharing feature. This will give players the ability to download and distribute their rosters to use in Franchise mode.
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