First announced little over a month ago, EA Sports has today detailed a series of key features making their way into NHL 17, including a reworked version of Be a GM mode and, for the first time in the franchise’s history, a full international mode.
Word comes by way of an official blog post, offering up an overview of this year’s installment in the long-running sports sim series. According to EA, these features ensure NHL 17 stands as “the most exciting EA SPORTS NHL game to date.”
Here’s a rundown of what to expect when the game launches later this year:
World Cup of Hockey
For the first time in EA SPORTS NHL history, play for national pride in a full International Tournament Mode. Featuring all of the official World Cup of Hockey teams, players and uniforms, take to the ice on a world stage as your national team and heroes.
Draft Champions
The new Draft Champions mode introduces the thrill of the fantasy draft with fast rounds of superstar picks. Each round challenges managers to choose the best players to build a balanced team. Immediately following your draft, take to the ice and fulfill your team’s potential by winning the Draft Championship.
Franchise Mode
Fan-favorite Be a GM mode expands to complete control of an entire franchise with the addition of unique team owners. Control your favorite team and lead them to Stanley Cup glory by managing the team and the business behind the scenes. Make game-changing decisions from player personnel, ticket prices, marketing, arena upgrades, and even relocation – all from under the watchful eye of a demanding owner with challenging goals.
Authentic Goaltending
With all-new Reactionary Save Intelligence goalies will process their position, angle and the scoring situation before committing to an athletic or technical save. New motion capture replicates the technical movements of goaltenders resulting in true-to-life stances and an ability to use their body to stay big and block versus making a reactionary save.
Celebrate With Style
After you’ve buried the puck into the back of the net all eyes are on you. Bring glory and emotion to the spotlight and celebrate using dozens of all-new player celebrations that give you a variety of ways to rub that goal into your opponent’s face and bring the crowd to their feet.
NHL 17 is expected to skate onto PS4 and Xbox One in September. As for the game’s cover star, EA will officially reveal whether Joe Pavelski or Vladimir Tarasenko will adorn the box art on June 22. Find out how you can cast your vote here.
[Source: EA Sports]
