NHL 24 Unveils Shocking Release Details: Controversial Choices, Early Access Drama, and Edition Wars – Can EA Sports Win Back Fans?

The crisp sound of skates carving the ice and the thunderous clash of sticks—hockey enthusiasts, get ready to lace up your virtual skates! EA Sports is gearing up for the much-anticipated release of NHL 24, promising an adrenaline-pumping gaming experience for fans of the franchise. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details, from the release date to the available editions, and find out how this installment aims to elevate the virtual hockey arena.

Release Date Anticipation: October 6th, 2023

While October 10th might seem like an eternity for eager fans awaiting the upcoming hockey season, fear not—EA Sports has a plan to keep the excitement alive. NHL 24 is set to hit Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 on October 6th, four days ahead of the anticipated date. The countdown has begun for puck-drop enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the thrilling world of virtual hockey.

Editions Unveiled: Standard vs. Deluxe Showdown

As the virtual puck gets closer to the net, the choice of editions adds an intriguing layer to the NHL 24 experience. Much like the strategic plays on the ice, gamers must decide between the Standard Edition and the Deluxe Edition, also known as the X-Factor Edition. The Standard Edition comes with a price tag of $59.99 for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, while the upgraded Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 versions will be priced at $69.99. For those seeking the pinnacle of virtual hockey immersion, the Deluxe Edition awaits at $99.99.

Pre-Order Perks: Boosting the Excitement Quotient

The thrill doesn’t stop at choosing an edition; pre-orders come with a flurry of bonuses, enticing players to gear up early for the puck-drop extravaganza. Let’s break down the goodies:

Standard Edition Pre-Order Bonuses:

• HUT Power Up Icon Choice Pack
• WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier (x2)

X-Factor Edition Pre-Order Bonuses:

• Dual Entitlement
• 3-Days Early Access starting October 3rd, 2023
• HUT Team Building Player Choice Pack
• 4600 NHL Points
• Exclusive Cale Makar Player Item
• HUT Power Up Icon Choice Pack
• WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier (x5)

These bonuses not only add an extra layer of excitement but also provide a head start for players diving into the game.

Early Access: A Sneak Peek for the Die-Hard Fans

For the die-hard fans who can’t wait to hit the virtual ice, early access options are available. Those opting for the X-Factor Edition pre-order will enjoy an exclusive 3-day head start, commencing on October 3rd, 2023. Additionally, EA Play or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can snag a 10-hour trial of NHL 24, offering a taste of the action before the full game release.

Xbox Game Pass Speculation: A Question Mark Hanging in the Air

While the excitement builds, one lingering question remains: Will NHL 24 find a spot in the Xbox Game Pass lineup? As of now, there’s no official confirmation, but history suggests that EA Sports games often find their way into the Game Pass library. Last year’s NHL 23 was added to EA Play & Xbox Game Pass in April 2023, leaving fans hopeful for a similar fate for NHL 24.

Olivia’s Verdict: A Power Play for Hockey Gaming Enthusiasts

As the virtual ice beckons, NHL 24 emerges as a powerhouse, ready to deliver an exhilarating gaming experience. The strategic edition choices, pre-order bonuses, and early access options amplify the excitement, catering to both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts. Whether you’re eyeing the Standard Edition or going all-in with the Deluxe Edition, the world of NHL 24 awaits, promising an immersive journey into the heart of hockey action.