Electronic Arts provided the first glimpse of NHL 20 during the 2019 NHL Awards. Signature Shots are the big new feature coming in NHL 20, replicating the animations and unique styles of hockey stars like Alex Ovechkin and Auston Matthews’, the latter whom was also revealed as the cover athlete.
“Growing up I always admired all the players who got to be on the cover of the game. This is a very cool honor and I am proud to represent my organization,” said Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. “I’m also really competitive, so now I can’t wait to fire up NHL 20 in the locker room and play against my teammates.”
Other new features include a new Eliminator competitive mode for Ones and Threes. Eliminator is inspired by the battle royale genre, pitting dozens of players in a massive bracket tournament. Ones has also opened up to support local multiplayer (in addition to Threes).
NHL 20 is also getting a much needed facelift (earlift?) with new play-by-play commentators, which has been one of the weakest factors in the NHL series for years. The entire NBC licensing has been dropped in favor of a broadcast package that’s specifically tailored to NHL 20, which includes an improved score box UI.
The World of Chel was NHL 19’s new hub for online progression. NHL 20 builds upon it with weekly Chel Challenges that unlock rewards, including over 2000 more unique customization items and more outdoor locations.
NHL 20 will release on September 13 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Pre-ordering will net early access on September 10, while EA Access members can play even earlier when the Play First Trial begins on September 5.
