NHL 18 has several new features, highlighted by the brand new NHL Threes mode, which mimics NHL overtime rules with 3-on-3 hockey. The mode features a smaller rink, bigger hits, and even a different announcer as it offers a more arcade-like look at hockey. Mascots from NHL teams are also playable in this mode. Teams from HockeyAllsvenskan, EBEL and Champions Hockey League also make their first appearance. The expansion franchise Vegas Golden Knights from the NHL are also playable.
NHL 18 generally favorable reviews, according to review aggregator Metacritic. In their 7/10 review, GameSpot wrote: “There’s still a lot to love about NHL 18, even if the core on-ice experience has only seen minor tweaks… New players are sure to feel welcome, but for any series veterans, NHL 18 still has some room to improve.” IGN gave the game a 7.4 out of 10, writing: “Those are positive strides, but the rest of the modes and features are starting to feel too familiar. If you’re someone who’s been following the NHL series for years, you aren’t getting anything drastically new here to alter the balance or restore excitement.
NHL 18 is an ice hockey simulation video game developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports. It was released on Playstation 4 and Xbox One on September 15, 2017. It is the 27th installment in the NHL video game series and features Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid on the cover.
