Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For an up-to-date, licensed NHL simulation, choose EA SPORTS NHL 26—but only if you play on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S. EA lists those consoles, not PC. PC players looking for hockey can consider Tape to Tape or Super Blood Hockey, which offer different indie and arcade-style experiences rather than a verified substitute for EA’s current NHL simulation.
Best hockey games at a glance
| Game | Best for | Platforms supported by the available sources | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA SPORTS NHL 26 | A current, licensed NHL console simulation | PlayStation 5; Xbox Series X|S | EA’s official page links to these console stores and does not list a PC version. EA SPORTS NHL 26 |
| Tape to Tape | PC players open to an indie hockey game | Windows PC, according to a secondary reference listing | The listing identifies it as a 2023 release. Check a current store listing for availability and requirements. List of ice hockey video games |
| Super Blood Hockey | Players seeking an arcade-style hockey game | Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, according to a secondary reference | Verify the relevant store listing before buying; the cited platform list is secondary and may not reflect current availability. Super Blood Hockey |
| EA SPORTS NHL 25 | Someone considering an older console entry | PlayStation 5; Xbox Series X|S, according to EA’s page | Whether it is a good-value choice depends on its current local price, roster needs, and preferred features. EA SPORTS NHL 25 |
Which hockey game should you choose?
Choose NHL 26 for a current NHL console simulation
EA announced NHL 26’s worldwide launch for September 12, 2025, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The company describes its ICE-Q 2.0 system as using official NHL EDGE positional data, making it the clearest choice in this shortlist for players seeking current NHL branding and a simulation-focused presentation. EA’s launch announcement
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
EA SPORTS NHL 27 - Physical Disc - Xbox Series X | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
NHL 23 - XB1 | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Hasbro Gaming Hypershot Electronic Tabletop Hockey Game | 5 Games in 1 | Music, Lights, and Sounds |... | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
NHL 24 - Xbox One | $39.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
NHL 25 PlayStation 5 | $14.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Choose Tape to Tape if you want a Windows hockey game
The available reference identifies Tape to Tape as a Windows hockey game released in 2023. That makes it a PC option to investigate, not an equivalent to a current officially licensed NHL release. Confirm current availability, supported Windows versions, and hardware requirements on its store page before purchasing.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Choose Super Blood Hockey for an arcade-style alternative
Super Blood Hockey is described as an arcade-style title, with Windows and several older-console platforms reported in the cited secondary listing. Its style and licensing proposition differ from NHL 26; check the store for your platform to confirm it is still offered and supported.
#1 Best Overall
- Full version of EA SPORTS NHL 27 on physical Blu-ray disc for Xbox Series X. Xbox Series X only – not compatible with Xbox Series S and Xbox One consoles.
- Experience authentic NHL atmosphere across all 32 arenas with real goal songs, new pre-game presentations and a fully revamped crowd that captures every team's unique identity.
- Take control in Connected Franchise with up to 32 user-controlled teams, roster management, league customization, commissioner tools and full online seasons.
- Powered by NHL EDGE data, 32 unique Team Playbooks bring authentic strategies, team identities and realistic gameplay to every matchup on the ice.
Consider NHL 25 only after checking the local deal
EA’s NHL 25 page links to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S stores. The available information does not establish its present price or whether it is a better value than NHL 26. Compare the price in your region and the rosters and features you care about rather than assuming an older edition is automatically a bargain.
Can you play NHL 26 on PC?
EA’s official NHL 26 page lists PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S store destinations, not a PC version. Based on that official listing, do not buy or plan for NHL 26 as a PC release. If you want hockey on Windows, look into Tape to Tape or Super Blood Hockey and verify their current storefront details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ICE-Q - This is true hockey intelligence. Built on an all-new logic-driven animation system, ICE-Q responds to contextual events on the ice with unprecedented authenticity and is the foundation of Chel’s gameplay overhaul.
- SKILL BASED ONE-TIMERS – Skill Based One-Timers create authentic gameplay tension as offensive excitement and expectation mix with defensive concern and anticipation, each pass creating unique moments and opportunities for high-scoring probability shots.
- GRUDGE MATCH - Hockey is at its best when the competition is fierce. The all-new Grudge Match System tracks the history of matchups between teams across all major online and offline modes in NHL 25 to add more context, stakes and heat to showdowns with your rivals.
- NEXT-GEN CHARACTERS - The next best thing to the real thing. Thanks to the introduction of Sapien Technology to the NHL franchise and the power of our Frostbite Engine on next-gen consoles, all of NHL 25’s in-game characters have received a serious visual overhaul.
Rank #4
- EA SPORTS NHL 24’s all-new gameplay features bring authentic on-ice action to life.
- Experience the rush and fatigue of a high-pressure game with the Exhaust Engine, where sustained pressure in the attack zone leads to new game-changing effects.
- Chel is more connected than ever with cross-play in all online team play modes, along with HUT Moments, which lets you recreate classic moments in hockey history and today’s biggest plays.
- Flex Moments introduces 75+ new goal celebrations, and a wholly refreshed presentation complements an enriched crowd atmosphere that makes playing the game feel like you’re at the game.
- Some features may require an internet connection and an online subscription.
Rank #3
- ELECTRONIC TABLETOP HOCKEY GAME: Get ready for action-packed excitement with the Hypershot electronic kids game! It’s up and moving fun, as players slide their puck and try to hit the lights before their opponent
- COMPETITIVE, PUCK-SHOOTING FRENZY: In this air hockey-themed game for kids, players shoot their pucks at moving or stationary lights and compete to own the “ice.” The first to win 4 rounds is the champion
- 5 HIGH-ACTION GAMES IN 1: Play again and again with 5 game modes! Go head-to-head in four different 2-player games—Ricochet, Slap Shot, Shoot-Out, and Face-Off—or hone skills solo in Trainer mode
- MUSIC, LIGHTS, AND SOUNDS: Featuring 5 sports-themed songs, lights, and sound effects with every game mode! At the end of each round, the game unit announces the score
- PORTABLE AND STORABLE: Compete at home and on the go! With easy, in-game storage, this portable game is a snap to pack up and toss in a bag. It’s an ideal kids travel game for busy families
Rank #2
- Grab your friends, hit the ice, and make history in NHL 23
- Get the best players in the world on one lineup with the introduction of mixed women’s and men’s teams in HUT
- Last chance puck movement gameplay animations let you control how a play unfolds after any level of contact is taken
- Gear up and hit the ice for the most dynamic, connected, and visually rich Chel experience yet
How to compare hockey games before buying
- Check your platform first. NHL 26 is listed for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S; the cited reference lists Tape to Tape for Windows. For Super Blood Hockey, confirm the platform and current listing in the store you intend to use.
- Decide between simulation and arcade or indie play. EA presents NHL 26 as an NHL simulation and says ICE-Q 2.0 uses official NHL EDGE positional data. Tape to Tape and Super Blood Hockey are distinct alternatives; the available information does not establish that they carry the same NHL licensing.
- Compare the modes you personally want. The available sources do not support a detailed comparison of franchise, career, or multiplayer modes, so check current game descriptions and reviews for those specifics.
- Check current price, region, and availability. Prices and regional availability can change; consult the platform storefront before purchasing. No price comparison is established here.
- Plan your controls. A compatible controller can be useful if you prefer gamepad input, but no particular controller model is required by the available information.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
