With the introduction of RPM Tech in NHL 19, we delivered a revolutionary new skating engine that overhauled control and responsiveness. In NHL 20, we are building on that cutting-edge technology to deliver unprecedented improvements to how players interact with the puck to further increase the fluidity and authenticity of the game.
Last year the new RPM Tech skating system gave players a higher level of control over skaters, however there were moments when the player was pulled out of skating animations during actions such as shooting, passing or pickups. With new advancements in NHL 20, we have now integrated skating with those actions, allowing players to keep their stride and speed with control of the puck.
NHL 20 introduces the next major innovation in RPM Tech-powered gameplay with signature shots. Your favorite NHL stars now look and feel truly authentic with the trademark shooting-styles you recognize from the real world. Additionally, over 45 new contextual shot animations make shooting more lifelike as players use new tools to get the puck on net.
Every licensed player will be assigned their own shooting style to better match the real world look of their shot. Created players will also have that same option, giving you another level of customization to showcase your unique personality and style on the ice. Shooting styles have nuanced differences that take into account different windups, follow throughs, leg kicks, release points, and more to give each shooting style their own unique look.
In situations where you are coming in on 1-on-1, players now have multiple positions available to shoot while dekeing around defenders and goalies. As you drive down the ice, RPM total body tech will now understand if the puck is moving forehand to backhand, or backhand to forehand before a shot is executed. it will also take into consideration how close you are to the net and your skaters entry angle, giving you a suite of new shots in your arsenal to beat defenders and goalies.
This year player shots will change based on your distance from the net and the difference in power vs quickness that would be required to hit the net. Deke past defenders and drive closer to the net for quicker and snappier shots. Alternatively, utilize your power from the top of the circles by leaning into your wrist shots with more impact shots to stun the goalie.
NHL 20 is also redefining the way players can attack loose pucks. This year each shot is unique based on the incoming angle of the puck relative to the players position, you will now see a player position their hips, legs and stick differently if the puck is coming to their forehand or backhand side.
On the forehand, skaters will move to positions of strength to get behind the shot when the puck is not in an ideal position, resulting in stronger snap shots that come from redirects, rebound or loose pucks opportunities. On the backhand, skaters will now better utilize redirects in situations where they cannot angle themselves for a strong forehand shot.
One-timers have also been revamped as RPM Tech has made one-timer shooting more fluid, connected and realistic. New animations capture the differences when players are shooting high or low, and players will now position their hands and follow through based on the power, angle, and height of the shot.
Taking a full stop before shooting a one-timer will allow you to set up your shot with a higher degree of power and accuracy, while skating at full speed into a one-timer will impact your ability to accurately send the puck on net. A poor one timer pass or a player taking a shot too quickly from a poor position can lead to low quality shots that will be visible through new animations.
In NHL 20, new explosive transitions allow you to take the puck in stride, anticipate a turn before receiving the puck, and retain your speed allowing every player to make plays in motion. When receiving a pass players will change their angles and stick position when picking up the puck, giving you more control to seamlessly move into the next play and allow you to experience give-and-go’s without breaking a stride. Just like in real life the perfect feed will make it easier for a player to keep skating at top speed, whereas an mistimed pass will slow down your teams transition.
Passing locations have also been reworked - passing the puck up the wing will no longer send it into your teammates skates, but will now utilize angles where they can receive it on their forehand or backhand. Human players should feel less locked into pickups and should have the ability to adjust their speed or angle as a pass is coming. Adjust your speed and angle to open up lanes against opponents, slow down to avoid an offside or accelerate onto a puck and drive up the ice.
EA SPORTS NHL 20 is available worldwide on September 13. Pre-order the Ultimate Edition and play three days early.
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