In a recent press conference, EA Sports unveiled the gameplay features of NHL 25, introducing new mechanics and improvements that make this year’s installment stand out. The highlight of the event was the introduction of the new Ice-Q system, which brings several important changes to how on-ice action unfolds, both offensively and defensively.
Producer Chris Haluke explained that Ice-Q is designed to enhance player control and provide deeper strategic gameplay. The first of the system’s “pillars” is vision control, a feature that gives players more control over what they see on the ice. When you have possession of the puck, the camera focuses on the net, while when defending, it centers on the puck. This allows for better situational awareness and more precise playmaking.
During the reveal, Mike Inglehart demonstrated how vision control can lead to smarter offensive maneuvers. In one example, the camera zoomed out as the player moved behind the net, allowing a better view of the defensive setup and making it easier to plan the next move. This contrasts with previous NHL games, where the camera would only follow the player, limiting tactical opportunities. Another demonstration showed how vision control allowed the player to exploit a defensive gap for a clearer shot at the goal, highlighting the potential for more creative gameplay.
Ice-Q also brings improvements to CPU AI, the second major focus of the system. AI-controlled players now move with more agility and awareness, playing like real teammates who understand the game situation. Inglehart explained that these changes make it easier to coordinate plays, with AI players being in the right place at the right time, barring interference from the opposing team. The improved AI aims to create more realistic team dynamics, ensuring that every skater contributes meaningfully to the game.
The third pillar of Ice-Q is reactive animations, which allow CPU players to respond more naturally in critical situations. Players now recover more quickly from collisions, avoid unnecessary contact, and generally react in ways that mimic real-life hockey scenarios. This improvement brings more fluidity to gameplay, especially during intense moments.
In addition to Ice-Q, NHL 25 introduces a new skill-based one-timer shot. This mechanic gives offensive players a brief window of opportunity to score, provided they have a clear view of the net and are not intercepted by the defense. This feature is designed to enhance the excitement of offensive plays, especially in multiplayer matches.
Another notable enhancement is the game’s updated character models, which now feature more realistic designs and improved hair rendering. While the new models were only shown in character screens, the changes eliminate the “uncanny valley” effect seen in previous NHL games. This attention to detail makes the models look more like their real-life counterparts, a significant visual improvement.
As
NHL 25 heads toward its October 2024 release, EA promises more reveals, including an in-depth look at this year’s Hockey Ultimate Team.
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