NHL 24: 5 Best Tips for Beginners

After the success of NHL 23, EA Vancouver has unleashed its latest installment, NHL 24, into the world of ice hockey gaming. As the 33rd installment from this renowned Canadian video game developer, NHL 24 promises an array of exclusive and exhilarating features, including full crossplay availability for World of Chel and Hockey Ultimate Team.

However, diving into the new season can be daunting for newcomers to this ice hockey simulation title or returning players after a break. With changes ranging from precision in hitting to scoring goals, brushing up on the basics and exploring some advanced tips is essential. So, without further delay, let’s delve into NHL 24 and uncover five top beginner tips to help you navigate this exciting virtual hockey world.

5. Understand the Gameplay

The NHL 24 franchise introduces a host of exciting new features, resulting in a complete overhaul of gameplay compared to its predecessor. These enhancements include state-of-the-art total control skill moves, an advanced passing system, revamped physics-based technology, and the introduction of the innovative ‘exhaust engine.’

The exhaust engine is a game-changer, capturing the intensity and pressure of real-life hockey. It brings forth elements like goalie fatigue and sustained pressure systems. Activating the pressure system empowers you to mount an aggressive, offensive assault on your opponents, putting them on the defensive as you aim to clear the puck. Meanwhile, the goalie fatigue feature gradually diminishes the efficiency of the goaltender as the game unfolds, increasing your chances of scoring with well-placed shots.

The pressure-filled momentum dictates the power of your shots and the challenges the opposing team faces in defense. This pressure meter fills based on factors such as puck possession. Additionally, NHL 24 introduces total control, physics-based mechanics, and a vision-passing system that simplifies gameplay controls.

The vision passing tool enables precise passes to your teammates, while the physics-based mechanics enhance the realism of player movements and collisions. These changes provide a more immersive gaming experience, giving you greater control over hits, shot direction, strength, and creative plays.

Once you’ve mastered the fundamental gameplay and controls, you can explore more advanced features, such as crossplay, and dive into various game modes for an even more engaging experience.

4. Choose Your Game Mode

NHL 24 provides a whole new gaming experience on the ice, and it’s up to you to choose how to face it. Although most new players like to rush it with the career mode, you can still access different options like World of Chel, Franchise, and offline modes. Be a Pro is pretty basic but has a few new additions as compared to last season’s.

Most basically, you will need to build a character from scratch by choosing the appearance, age, name, gender, and a few more personal details. It’s the same character you will use in the World of Chel as you advance your gameplay in the franchise. 

Once your player is set, proceed to choose your archetype. The game offers a generous selection of archetypes, but you need to pick them cautiously. After you have your Be a Pro career rolling, you can never change your choice of the archetype. Typically, most of the archetype options represent distinct powers. Therefore, you should pick one based on how you want to play. For instance, if you want to play as a dedicated defender, then Grinder should be your option here. Playmaker is, however, a bit more versatile and adaptable to different preferences.

With your character built and Archetype selected, get your gameplay rolling and follow up on your Coach Feedback to identify possible improvement areas.

3. Think About the Fights and Hit Tricks

Side fights are not new for ice hockey fans, and NHL 24 gameplay is no different. You can create a mini-game by slamming into opponents to trigger a fight or even sandwiching them between boards. While picking a fight can be exciting, it’s good to do your timing right and be certain of a win. For beginners aiming for victory, mastering hit techniques is a crucial and relatively straightforward step. First, remember the right analog stick for punches; the blows will be your ticket straight up to a win.

Additionally, you will want to dodge your opponent’s throws or get a better hold of them. If you’re playing on Xbox, the RT button will help you dodge the punches, while the LT button can be used for a better hold. On the other hand, PlayStation users should use R2 to dodge and L2 for a better hold of the enemy. Finally, always time your hits, as mistiming could give your opponent a perfect time to strike back.

2. Get the X-Factor Tricks Right

Elevate your NHL 24 gaming experience with X-Factor tricks. EA Vancouver embeds a unique set of capabilities that provide players with a significant boost in their action. Players will get boosts based on their special skills, with different sets for offensive and defensive action. 

For instance, an X-factor ability like the Unstoppable Force will give you immense strength with the puck and improve your capability to hold on to the puck even when you’re off balance. The Quick Pick, a defensive ability, will make you a pro at intercepting the puck and boost your range when intercepting it. 

1. Level Up With the Hockey Ultimate Team

The game features cool advancements for competing, so you don’t have to rush to the HUT. You could always try a few more games with friends or other NHL fanatics on Crossplay. But if your friends seem to need to match your skill level, go global and face off with other players on the Hockey Ultimate Team. 

Nothing can hold you back once you are acquainted with NHL 24 gameplay. Bagging several wins is another clear way to bring you immense enjoyment. Therefore, it’s time to level up your battle skills in competitions. Before that, remember these beginner tips and master them on the playground for a sure rise into stardom.