NHL 17 similar games & best alternatives

Why it matches

• Both are about getting better Career mode and skill progression systems encourage learning and personal development over time.
• Both reward thinking ahead Requires strategic thinking in gameplay, team management, and use of X-Factors and player tendencies.
• Both reward mastery The game features a steep learning curve, especially with the new goaltending system and realistic gameplay mechanics, rewarding skillful play and mastery.

Why it matches

• Both thrive on competition Strong competitive elements exist in online modes like Ultimate Team and Squad Battles, with ranked leaderboards and multiplayer matches.
• Both reward thinking ahead The game requires tactical thinking, planning, and problem solving in both single-player and multiplayer modes.
• Both reward mastery The game challenges players with skillful passing, defending, and timing tackles, rewarding mastery and providing feedback through gameplay and AI behavior.

Why it matches

• Both reward thinking ahead Tactical gameplay, team management, and match planning require strategic thinking.
• Both reward mastery Gameplay is challenging with improved batting difficulty and tactical bowling, requiring skill and providing feedback.
• Both are driven by steady progression Players progress by developing squads, unlocking players, and advancing in career mode.

Why it matches

• Both thrive on competition Strong competitive elements through online modes like Ultimate Team, ranked matches, leaderboards, and tournaments encourage player comparison.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on accumulating players, upgrades, and team chemistry, especially in Ultimate Team and career progression.
• Both are about getting better Career mode and skill games promote learning and personal development in football tactics and gameplay.

Why it matches

• Both are about getting better MyCareer and MyGM modes focus on skill development, learning basketball tactics, and player progression.
• Both reward thinking ahead Requires tactical thinking in gameplay, team management, and in-game decision making.
• Both reward mastery The game offers a high skill ceiling with complex controls, realistic AI, and rewarding defensive play requiring smart basketball tactics.

Why it matches

• Both thrive on competition Includes online divisions, ranked modes, and multiplayer competitions encouraging players to compare skills and compete against others.
• Both reward thinking ahead Highly tactical gameplay requiring planning, formation management, and adaptive problem-solving.
• Both are about getting better Players develop skills, tactical knowledge, and team management abilities through gameplay and modes like Master League.

Why it matches

• Both thrive on competition Strong competitive elements in online modes like Ultimate Team and Volta League, with ranked matches and leaderboards.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong progression systems through player upgrades, team building, and unlocking cosmetics and skills.
• Both are about getting better Skill development is integral, with players learning mechanics, improving in competitive play, and progressing in career modes.

Why it matches

• Both pay no attention to wellbeing No physical activity involved; purely sedentary gameplay.

Why it matches

• Both thrive on competition Strong competitive elements exist through modes like Ultimate Team, Division Rivals, and local/online multiplayer with stat tracking and leaderboards.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on accumulating players, upgrades, and rewards in Ultimate Team and career progression.
• Both reward thinking ahead Tactical depth and strategic planning are key, with dynamic tactics and formation changes during matches.