EA SPORTS implemented women’s teams and complete squads in NHL 22 for the first time ever on Thursday as part of the new IIHF update.
2K Games had integrated the WNBA and thus players and women’s teams into the basketball simulation series in 2019 for NBA 2K20, EA SPORTS itself had already taken this step for the first time in 2015 for FIFA 16. Even then, the public had perceived this step as long overdue.
The NHL franchise followed suit on Thursday – almost six and a half years after FIFA. The new update to the IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation) content has ten women’s national teams in the bag, including the German selection. In addition, the Women’s World Championship will also be playable in NHL 22 in the future.
World Federation gets representation
“It was truly a privilege to lace up my digital skates for the first time in NHL 22. And to be playing for my country in the process makes it even more surreal,” Canada’s Marie-Philip Poulin was quoted as saying in a statement. “Representation is important. And I’m happy that every young woman who picks up a controller to play NHL 22 can feel that hockey is her sport too.”
In addition to the ten women’s teams, 16 men’s teams have also been added, as well as the Men’s World Championship under the IIHF umbrella. The new content is available in various modes such as Play Now, Online VS, Threes Now and Shootout. They follow on from the implementation of the IIHF’s prestigious World Junior Championship back in December.
“Reflects the diversity of the fanbase “
“The introduction of this new IIHF content in NHL 22 continues the evolution of the series and reflects the increasing diversity of its fanbase,” said Sean Ramjagsingh, VP and GM at EA SPORTS. “We’re very proud to showcase these incredible talents from around the world – and especially the international women’s teams – as they make their Chel debuts.”
EA SPORTS continues to gear up when it comes to equality, sending a late but important signal. Whereas gaming had long been considered a male domain, in 2021 the gender ratio in Germany was almost balanced (53 per cent men, 47 per cent women), according to Statista. The industry is gradually taking this development into account – although there is still room for improvement.
