Another year means another NHL game, and NHL 26 is landing from EA Sports very soon. As is customary in modern gaming, details on the Game Pass situation are on the minds of players.
Releasing September 12, although it is available in early access already, NHL 26 is the latest entry in EA Sports’ annual franchise, bringing the definitive NHL experience into your hands with licensed teams and players.
If you’re wondering whether you can save on spending your hard-earned money on the title with a Game Pass subscription, the guide below has all the details you need.
Can You Play NHL 26 on Xbox Game Pass?
No, the full game of NHL 26 is not available on Xbox Game Pass, and purchasing the title is required to have unlimited access.
There is, however, a 10-hour trial of NHL 26 available through EA Play, which is included in the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Once that time expires, however, access to the game is blocked unless you purchase the title outright.
The EA Play trial for NHL 26 has been available since the start of early access on September 5, and will remain in place for the foreseeable future. It’s the perfect opportunity to try out the game before committing to splashing out to fully unlock the title for the year.
Will NHL 26 Come to Xbox Game Pass?
NHL 26 is highly likely to come to Xbox Game Pass in 2026, with EA Sports titles having a customary release on the service in the latter stages of their lifespan.
NHL 25 joined Game Pass in April, opening the doors for more players to enjoy the game and building up anticipation before the release of NHL 26 this month.
It’s expected that NHL 26 will follow a similar schedule, which would put the addition of the title on the Game Pass service in March or April 2026. However, this is merely a prediction based on the past approach by EA Sports and is not a certainty to happen, as the approach may change.
If NHL 26 is at the top of your wishlist, the best tactic is to purchase the game outright now so you don’t miss out. If you’re happy to wait, though, an eventual Game Pass release is expected.
Have you tried out NHL 26 yet through EA Play? What are your thoughts on the game? Let us know in the Insider Gaming forum.
For more NHL 26, take a look at all the achievements and trophies, and check out the details of the Be A Pro mode.
