), and more.
The game is coming to PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
As usual, the game is not in the works for PC or Nintendo Switch.
Cover Athletes
In a big shift, NHL 23 has two cover stars this year.
Anaheim Ducks superstar Trevor Zegras is on the cover alongside Team Canada’s Sarah Nurse.
Two cover athletes is not unprecedented for EA Sports, and it’s in fact becoming more popular.
Gameplay Changes
One of the biggest updates for NHL 23 are “last-chance” moves.
When players stumble on the ice, they can perform desperation moves like shooting and passing from their knees.
On that note, the “Zegras flip” has been added to NHL 23, too.
According to EA, more than 500 “last-chance” moves have been added to NHL 23.
Additionally, AI goalies are better and smarter, EA says.
NHL 22’s X-Factor abilities also return in NHL 23, with new ones themed around the cover stars.
For example, “Relentless” is for off-balance shots and passes, meant to replicate Nurse’s skills.
The ice will now display more realistic-looking scratches and ice buildup will collect in corners as games go on.
Additionally, ice spray will leave marks on boards like it would in real life.
THis means men and women can skate together in competitive matches.
However, fighting is toggled off, for obvious reasons.
Cross-play
In a first for the NHL series, cross-play matchmaking is coming to NHL 23.
This should help with the franchise’s notoriously long wait times for matchmaking.
Other Improvements
NHL 23’s crowd atmosphere effects are getting better this year.
Player models are improved too, now promising more personality and emotion through additional skin animations, including imperfections.
For more on NHL 23, check outGameSpot’s NHL 23 preorder guide.
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