Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Play

Xbox

PlayStation

Screenwise Verdict

NHL 24 is a solid hockey sim that does what it says on the box: authentic ice action with improved mechanics. If your kid loves hockey, this will scratch that itch and teach legitimate strategy.

The problem? It's still an EA Sports annual release, which means the Hockey Ultimate Team mode is loaded with loot boxes disguised as card packs. You can absolutely enjoy the game without touching HUT—franchise mode, online versus, and local play are all great—but that monetization model lurks in the background.

Parents on Reddit suggest NHL 22 might actually be better for younger or newer players since 24's added complexity can overwhelm. The IGDB rating of 63 suggests it's a competent but not revolutionary entry. If you already own 22 or 23, the upgrade probably isn't necessary unless your kid is deep into the franchise.

Bottom line: Good for hockey-loving kids 10+, but set boundaries around Ultimate Team spending and be ready to teach good sportsmanship when online competition gets heated.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-16 who already like hockey. The E10+ rating is spot-on—younger kids will struggle with controls and strategy, while older teens may prefer more complex sports games or lose interest in annual iterations. Hockey fans of any age will enjoy it, but casual gamers might find it niche.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

78

Simulates real hockey with body checks and competitive play, but models teamwork and sportsmanship inherent to the sport. The E10+ rating for mild violence reflects realistic hockey contact—nothing gratuitous. Tone is authentic to professional sports without toxic behavior.

Imaginative

52

Sports simulation focused on realism over creativity. New gameplay mechanics like the Exhaust Engine and Vision Passing System add tactical depth, and HUT Moments lets players recreate historic hockey plays. But it's fundamentally about executing plays within hockey's established rules—not building worlds or expressing creativity.

Safe

72

ESRB rates it E10+ for mild violence (realistic hockey checks). Web search confirms 'Users Interact and In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items)'—the loot box element in Hockey Ultimate Team mode is a concern. Cross-play means online interaction with strangers. No explicit content, but the monetization model and random items lower the safety score meaningfully.

Enriching

64

Teaches hockey strategy, team coordination, and sports knowledge. Players learn positioning, timing, and decision-making. HUT Moments educates about hockey history. However, it's primarily entertainment—skill-building is narrow (sports gaming) and won't translate broadly. The grind-heavy Ultimate Team mode can feel more like chore than growth.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Realistic hockey simulation teaches strategy, positioning, and teamwork—great for kids who love the sport
HUT Moments lets players recreate iconic hockey history, adding educational value about the game's legends
Cross-play across all platforms means easier matchmaking with friends regardless of console
New gameplay mechanics (Exhaust Engine, Physics-Based Contact) add tactical depth without overwhelming complexity
Authentic presentation with 75+ goal celebrations makes victories feel genuinely rewarding

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What to Watch For

Hockey Ultimate Team includes loot boxes (random card packs)—set clear spending limits or avoid this mode entirely
Online play means interaction with strangers; no voice chat by default but messages possible through console
It's an annual sports title with incremental improvements—Reddit parents suggest NHL 22 might be better for younger/newer players
Competitive online modes can get intense; some kid reviewers on Common Sense Media found the learning curve steep

Conversation Starters

"What's your favorite team to play as? Do you know any of the real players on the roster?"
"Can you explain what strategy you're using—are you trying to wear down the goalie or go for quick shots?"
"Have you tried the HUT Moments? Which historic hockey moment did you recreate?"
"How do you feel when you lose a close game online? What helps you stay cool?"

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