nhl
'NHL 15' launched on Sept. 9. Courtesy/EA Sports

EA Sports released the first in a series of major updates to hockey game “NHL 15” last night for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

The first of a line-up of free content updates for the title, which hit shelves on Sept. 9 in North America, will improve a number of features, including updated layouts and better menu navigation. The patch will also include new animations for player items and better flagging of players that are injured or require contract extensions.

Check out details for the update below:

[Via EASports.com]

Playoff Mode

Play an offline bracket tournament with up to 16 teams. Use the teams from the NHL or create your own tournament tree by selecting teams from up to 12 different leagues. Play or simulate each game and track player and team stats throughout the tournament.

Coach Feedback

After each shift you will get the coach’s feedback while you are on the bench. The coach will give you tips on how to stay on top of your game and grade you on your game play. Score high grades on Position, Team Play, and Stats to work yourself up the team's depth chart.

Stars

At the end of the game, see the three stars and their stats.

Vancouver, Canada-based EA Sports promises to continue to add improvements to “NHL 15,” including the addition of online team play and a new GM Rookie Draft. The next update will release in October.

“NHL 15” is the 24th installment of the “NHL” series and launched on Sept. 9 in North America and three days later in Australia, Europe and New Zealand for the PS4, PS3, Xbox One and Xbox 360. Several features of the game are exclusive to the eighth-generation Xbox One and PS4.

“NHL 15” for the Xbox One and PS4 includes a broadcast package that resembles “The NHL on NBC,” authentic versions of 28 NHL arenas in extensive detail, living crowds that feature individuals with player signs and costumes, and revamped puck physics that lead to dynamic and authentic bounces and rolls.

Despite this, the game has earned just average reviews, receiving a 68/100 from Metacritic.

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