2K Sports today confirmed that NHL 2K15 is currently being developed for iOS and Android devices.
In an announcement call with 2K’s Senior Director of Marketing, Chris Snyder, Stevivor was provided with details of the franchise’s return.
“NHL 2K15 picks up where we left off with NHL 2K11,” Snyder explained, “but with updated features, graphics and modes.”
The franchise has been absent from consoles since the release of NHL 2K10, and one last mobile-only release followed that with NHL 2K11. Since then, EA Sports’ NHL franchise has basically been offered up without any competition.
“There are currently no plans to release NHL 2K on consoles,” he said. Nevertheless, we had to ask.
Snyder explained that NHL 2K’s return to Android and iOS was because today’s mobile platforms really suited what 2K Sports wants to do with the game.
“We’re able to bring a quality sim hockey experience [to the devices],” Snyder said. “We can now do things like update team rosters alongside their real-life counterparts. We couldn’t do that with NHL 2K11.”
The mobile title will also support Game Center and iCloud saves on iOS. Moreover, both versions of the game can be played with third-party controllers.
“We’ve improved quite a bit from NHL 2K11,” Snyder added. “People said the [on-screen] d-pad was too big in the last game, so we’re giving you the chance to go into options and resize it.”
Snyder said 2K Sports’ goal was to make “an NHL experience that caters to any type of hockey fan.” Hardcore simulation types can find comfort in Season and MyCareer modes, while casual fans can play a 3-on-3 mini-rink mode.
“I’m a big-time fan, but I find myself coming back to 3-on-3,” Snyder offered. “It’s really cool; there are two skaters, one goalie. The skaters are small, the ice is big, and the puck is super lively, bouncing around.”
It seems fair to compare that mode to EA’s 3 on 3 NHL Arcade, released to consoles in 2010.
NHL 2K15 will also feature an online shootout mode, the Winter Classic, freeskate and more, which means the mobile game can contend with EA’s current-gen NHL 15, at least in terms of available game modes.
“I think we have a perfectly struck balance; these modes are going to satisfy that hardcore hockey fan or the new fan who’s just started watching NHL games,” Snyder asserted.
While the game doesn’t have a cover, it still has a cover – or, more apt, an app icon – star. That honour falls to none other than Ryan Kessler, pictured above. “With his new jersey and all,” Snyder exclaimed, noting Kessler’s recent trade from the Vancouver Canucks to the Anaheim Ducks.
A release date for the newly announced title is not yet known, though the game is priced at around $8 USD. Snyder also confirmed the game will not feature any in-app purchases.
Stevivor will bring you more on NHL 2K15 for iOS and Android as it becomes available.
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