After hitting some rough ice on the latest generation of consoles, EA took the Zamboni to NHL 18, smoothing out the edges and adding a ton of new content to create a solid hockey experience.

The latest offering is the most accessible version of the game yet. More attention to the on-ice trainer will help newcomers figure out the basics of the game from player positioning to passing to learning how to pick the corners of the net when you’re in the clear. That knowledge will come in handy when squaring off against some of the smartest goalies the franchise has seen.

A revamped goalie system features new animations and improved AI (especially on higher difficulty settings) that ensures the last line of defence is no pushover. Goalies look around screens, smartly cut down angles and make spectacular lunges to steal sure goals. EA has even added in realistic stances, so your goaltender looks the part of your favourite NHL keeper.

The computer AI is no pushover either and EA has added a new difficulty setting (semi-pro) for players struggling with the jump from amateur to pro. The AI responds accordingly and actually varies its attack, alternating between carrying the puck into the offensive zone and dumping and chasing when the neutral zone is clogged.

Unfortunately, getting into games can still be problematic as ever with no real consequences for players who insist on dropping out or simply making it difficult for others to play the right way. EA missed an opportunity to add repercussions for anti-competitive behaviour that takes enjoyment away from others. Maybe next year.

The game also smartly capitalizes on the popularity of fantasy sports by adding a Draft Champions mode to the mix. First introduced in Madden 16, the mode allows players to draft their own ridiculously overpowered team and then take on their friends in the ultimate tournament. With the salary cap a non-factor, expect a glorified all-star game, and plenty of good times.

That said, at its core, the game delivers. The gameplay — always the most important factor — is as good as it has ever been and the level of depth, customization and replayability makes this one a winner.

While reviewers who play sports games regularly will talk about the game's depth and its many features, For those just getting into hockey video games, NHL18 is a great entry point. It has several different control modes, so you can play any way you like, either with twin sticks doing most of the heavy lifting, or using two different button schemes if shooting with the right thumbstick isn't your thing.