NHL 24

NHL 24 is the latest installment in EA Sports’ long-running hockey simulation series, bringing intense on-ice action with significant gameplay improvements over its predecessor. Released on October 6, 2023, this title marks the 33rd entry in the NHL franchise and the last to feature the Arizona Coyotes, who suspended operations in April 2024.

🔥 What is NHL 24

NHL 24 delivers an authentic hockey experience powered by the Frostbite 3 engine, focusing on capturing the raw intensity and physicality of professional ice hockey. With Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar as the cover athlete, the game represents a significant step forward in the series’ evolution.

The development team at EA Vancouver has completely revamped the gameplay mechanics to create a more realistic and dynamic hockey simulation. NHL 24 balances arcade-style accessibility with deep simulation elements, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the experience while offering veterans new strategic layers to master.

👉 Features of NHL 24

Exhaust Engine

The revolutionary Exhaust Engine is perhaps the most significant addition to NHL 24, fundamentally changing how matches unfold. This system introduces fatigue mechanics that affect all players on the ice, including goalies. The longer you maintain offensive pressure, the more your opponents tire, leading to decreased performance and creating strategic opportunities.

Sustained Pressure System

Working in tandem with the Exhaust Engine, the Sustained Pressure System rewards teams that maintain offensive zone control. When activated, this system provides an “adrenaline effect” that boosts passing speed and accuracy for the attacking team while imposing a “pinned effect” on defenders, causing faster stamina depletion and reduced mobility.

Physics-Based Contact

The revamped physics system delivers more realistic body checking and player interactions. Players can now charge their hits by holding down buttons, similar to the Bruise Control feature from NHL 2004, resulting in more impactful collisions1. The system also allows for more natural board play and puck battles.

Vision Passing System

This innovative passing mechanic displays button icons over teammates’ heads, giving players more direct control over passing targets. While adding precision to playmaking, it does create a steeper learning curve as players must process multiple visual cues simultaneously during fast-paced gameplay.

Total Control Skill Moves

NHL 24 simplifies complex deking maneuvers with an intuitive control scheme that allows players to execute highlight-reel moves with single button presses, making advanced techniques more accessible to casual players.

Gameplay

NHL 24’s gameplay feels noticeably different from previous entries thanks to its new systems. Matches develop a natural ebb and flow as teams battle for zone control and manage player stamina. The goalie fatigue system adds particular depth, as netminders become increasingly vulnerable to well-placed shots after sustained pressure.

The physics-based contact creates more satisfying defensive plays, with board battles and open-ice hits feeling weighty and consequential. Clearing the puck, forcing face-offs, or calling timeouts become crucial tactical decisions to help your team recover from defensive pressure.

Cross-play functionality has been expanded for Hockey Ultimate Team and World of Chel modes, allowing players on the same console generation to compete against each other regardless of platform.

Pros and Cons

✔️ Pros

• Exhaust Engine creates dynamic gameplay shifts and strategic depth
• Physics-based checking system delivers satisfying physical play
• Improved crowd reactions and arena atmosphere enhance immersion
• Cross-play functionality improves matchmaking
• HUT Moments mode offers interactive hockey history lessons

❌ Cons

• Vision Passing can create visual clutter during fast-paced play
• Similar mode selection to previous years with minimal innovation
• Learning curve for returning players due to control scheme changes
• Microtransactions remain prevalent in certain modes
• Occasional physics glitches with puck behavior

NHL 24 represents a significant step forward for the franchise, focusing on gameplay innovations that capture hockey’s intensity rather than flashy new modes. The Exhaust Engine and physics improvements create a more authentic experience that hockey fans will appreciate, even if some aspects of the package remain familiar.