NHL 17 Impressions

Right off the top, this is how demo’s should be done, as the NHL 17 demo comes packed with numerous modes, lots to explore, and a whopping 19 GB download size. Gone are the days of the 3rd period, Stanely Cup finals demos. We are getting something bigger and better, and that was a good sign right off the top.

Although certain aspects of the presentation don’t quite move from NHL 16 to 17 – we need new commentators, years after year – where NHL 17 seems to shine is in the on ice mechanics. Things have been improved – although slightly – over the phenomenal game play of NHL 16. Defenders seemed to have an added boost this year, breaking up plays much easier than ever before, unrealistically if you ask me, but I think over time and with a few updates, this might get tweaked.

Hitting feels solid, but when players crumple to the ice, something often doesn’t look right. Again, we are examining a purely aesthetic aspect, not anything game play related. However, if NHL wants to stay on top as the best looking sports game on the market, small things like that will need to be improved.

Player customization is fun, but lacks the creativity options that current generation titles have been offering for years now. Obviously, player customization is not the focal point of an NHL title, but understanding what consumers want should be priority one. If recent releases are any indication, people want the best in customization.

Hockey Ultimate Team was also an option in the NHL 17 beta, and outside of doing full scale reviews, is the only mode I’ve played consistently since NHL 15 and 16. Although it doesn’t appear if a whole lot has changed, small changes are evident and will provide an extra reason for players to come back again.

Overall, NHL 17 should deliver a really solid hockey experience ahead of the 2016-2017 NHL Season, and should be a must own for any hockey fan. Look for me online this fall, and Go Leafs Go!