The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced the launch of its first-ever fan experience on Roblox, bringing customisable team jerseys and hockey-inspired games to the metaverse. NHL Blast will allow fans and the Roblox community to interact and play together, featuring many elements of NHL fandom. It will be available on both computers and mobile devices.
Features of NHL Blast on Roblox
NHL Blast will introduce a range of features to Roblox, including:
– Teams of five players will play in fantastical, obstacle-filled environments, including one inspired by the NHL’s street hockey initiative.
– Skating and shooting mechanics that mimic the movements of actual NHL players.
– Users can choose to wear any NHL jersey with their Roblox username and custom number. Customisable goalie masks will also be available.
– A selfie station called the Upper Deck Selfie Station will allow users to take photos of their digital avatars living out hockey poses commonly featured on NHL trading cards.
– Updates will sync NHL Blast with marquee events. This includes 3-D goal recreations from the 2023 Stanley Cup Final using the league’s NHL EDGE puck and player tracking technology.
Built by metaverse development studio The Gang, NHL Blast has been well-received by the community. CEO Marcus Holmstrom praised the NHL’s focus and boldness on embracing fun, innovative gameplay and rewarding users with great customisation options that make them feel like pro players.
This move is part of the NHL’s efforts to reach a younger audience. Under Commissioner Gary Bettman, the NHL has made its first forays into esports and created a youth advisory board called NHL Power Players in 2019. The NHL recognises that younger fans are key to the future success of the sport. According to Statista, 23% of Roblox games users worldwide were aged between 9-12 years of age as of December.
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