The football season kicked off this weekend, and you know what that means: hockey is almost here! NHL 12 will launch this week with revamped gameplay, more realistic Be a Pro/GM modes, and an all new team! Say what you want about iterative sports games, but you’ll need to buy NHL 12 if you want to play with the Winnipeg Jets. This is great for everybody but the poor fans in Atlanta, but apparently there weren’t very many of them anyway.
EA Canada sure didn’t take this year off. You are going to find life on the ice a little rougher this time around. The improvements to the game engine allow for players to lose their helmets and get hit into the bench. For the first time in the series you will be able to hit the goalie…or get hit by the goalie. Goaltenders will even be allowed to fight other players. Players balance has also been updated, allowing stronger skaters to recover from a glancing check rather than falling to the ice.
The popular Be a Pro and Be a GM modes are getting a nice refresh. You’re pro will now start down in the CHL where you will play until you get drafted. Once drafted you’ll have to put some time into the AHL before you make it to the NHL. To help speed up your journey, NHL 12 will simulate play for you while you are on your bench and will only show you the highlights of what happens between shifts. This will make it a little easier as a third string player with limited ice time. Be a GM mode has a new simulation engine with the same ability to see the highlight plays. You can also take control mid-game in case things are getting out of hand.
There are a could of of other features worth noting. For the first time in the franchise you can unlock NHL Legends, including my long time favorite Steve Yzerman. Once unlocked, you can use the legends in any game mode. Legends cards will also be unlockable in the Ultimate Team mode. The Winter Classic in Heinz Field will be playable this year, with fans wearing the special Winter Classic jerseys. Lastly NHL 12 will utilize the EA Sports Season Ticket, allowing you to play early and get a discount on DLC if you are willing to pay the $25 fee.
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