EA’s NHL 19 launches on September 14, and the developer has shared some details on what’s new to the series. Among the highlights are outdoor arenas, more customization options, and a thrilling new game mode.

The NHL itself hosts outdoor games for its annual Winter Classic, and now you too can play in the great outdoors. While the real games take place in iconic stadiums, NHL 19 offers a wider variety of rinks. The first images look gorgeous, with a casual game being held in a mountain valley.

You don’t have to stick to the small rinks, though. Players can progress “from the ponds to the pros” with a fully customizable player. NHL 19 features over 900 new clothing items for you to look your best on the ice.

The franchise has received praise in the past for its physics and tight controls. EA, however, was unwilling to rest on its laurels. NHL 19 utilizes a re-invented physics collision system called Real Player Motion Tech to further enhance your experience on the ice. The trailer shows a small sample of the collisions, turns, and shots players will have at their disposal.

A chaotic new game mode called NHL ONES makes its debut in NHL 19. Players will do battle in a one vs. one vs. one free-for-all game. The games lack any semblance of order or rules, forcing players to rely on creativity above all else. Providing players with this sort of freestyle option should encourage new players to pick up the sticks and jump in.

Nashville Predators defenseman and Olympic gold medalist PK Subban will feature as NHL 19’s cover athlete on the standard edition. For players willing to pony up some extra cash, the Ultimate and Legend Editions feature the Great One, Wayne Gretzky. Pre-ordering either special edition earns players three day early access and loads of Ultimate Team boosts.

While the necessity to buy a new sports game every year seems overwhelming, NHL 19 does what it can to make it easier. Players who owned any of the franchise’s past three titles receive Ultimate Team and customization bonuses with NHL 19. Rewarding loyalty always earns a company some respect.

Check out our coverage of some other EA Sports games below:

• NBA Live 19 Revealed At EA Play
• Madden NFL 19 Reveals Release Date With New Trailer At E3 2018
• FIFA 19 With UEFA Champions League Revealed At EA Play

Are you excited to play outdoors as hockey was meant to be played? What do you think of the new game mode? Let us know in the comments, and follow DFTG on Twitter for more up to the minute gaming news.