Game reviews / NHL 26
NHL 26
2025 · PlayStation 5 · Xbox Series X|S · Sports · Ice hockey · Simulation
4 scored sources · 4 countries contributing scores
Review consensus
NHL 26 is a modest but meaningful improvement over its predecessor rather than a comprehensive overhaul. The redesigned Be A Pro mode benefits from World Juniors integration, new story presentation, additional cutscenes, and voice acting, while improved hitting and desperation saves make on-ice play more satisfying. However, many modes remain largely unchanged, online matchmaking can be slow, and multiplayer performance suffers from lag and frame drops. Goalies also appear overly vulnerable to unscreened slapshots, while longstanding bugs and sluggish menus persist. Its strongest additions make it the better annual hockey game, but not an essential upgrade for every NHL 25 owner.
Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.
Last researched: 2026-09-16
Pros
- More engaging Be A Pro mode with World Juniors, story changes, and voice acting
- Improved hitting system
- More dynamic desperation saves and goaltending reactions
- Cup Chase adds structure to offline Hockey Ultimate Team
Cons
- Poor online performance with lag and frame drops
- Difficult to find matches in several online modes
- Many franchise modes remain mostly unchanged
- Lingering bugs, sluggish menus, and overly weak responses to slapshots
Review sources
4 sources found across 4 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.
- Stevivor · Australia · 65/100
- SpazioGames · Italy · 75/100
- Push Square · United Kingdom · 60/100
- Shacknews · United States · 50/100