Those who play EA Sports’ NHL games religiously tend to gravitate towards its EA Sports Hockey League (EASHL) mode. It’s there where strangers can become teammates and best friends can become superstar linemates, as they come together to form an online powerhouse. That’s the goal, at least, and it’s something that will become even more tempting when NHL 17 hits store shelves this fall.
You may have heard talk about how NHL 17 will drastically improve the EASHL experience, but it wasn’t until now that we actually got proof of that. Embedded above is a brand new trailer, which goes in-depth into the revamped mode. Not only does it show an improved character creation suite, but it also demos the game’s new jersey and arena creators, and highlights some of the rewards that regular players can look forward to.
Through team success, friends will be able to grow their organization from an everyday rec league club to something that sells out an NHL-sized arena. It won’t be easy, though, and will take time, as you progress from your local recreation centre’s ice pad to a much more grandiose cathedral. One that can be customized down to its goal horn and seating style, the latter of which can be tailored to feature your team’s unique colour palette.
Another thing this new trailer covers is player classes. With these, you’ll be able to select a pre-determined player type that suits your exact play style. Lobbies will also carry forward from game to game, which will allow you to stick with people you’ve met and developed chemistry with.
NHL 17 will be released September 13th, for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, and we’ll continue to cover it as it develops.