NHL 06 vs NHL 12
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Hit the ice with EA Sports' NHL 06, the 2005 edition that builds on its predecessor with new analog stick deking and fancy moves for superstar players. The game features an up‑to‑date roster of NHL stars and a variety of modes, from dynasty and single season to quick matches and online play. The graphics have been fine‑tuned to reflect true player size differences, giving larger defensemen and goalies a more imposing look while keeping speedy scorers lean. With split‑screen multiplayer and a solid single‑player experience, NHL 06 delivers a deep, simulator‑style hockey experience for fans of the sport.
NHL 12 brings the intensity of professional ice hockey to your living room with authentic player models, lifelike physics, and deep franchise management. Play solo, team up with friends, or compete online in a variety of modes that capture the excitement of the NHL. Developed by EA Canada and published by EA Sports, the game offers a polished experience with robust online features, customizable rosters, and a dynamic AI that adapts to your play style. With a PEGI 16 and ESRB E10+ rating, it’s suitable for a wide range of hockey fans.
- Deep Dynasty management
- Realistic player size graphics
- Innovative analog stick controls
- Broad platform support
- Highly realistic gameplay and physics
- Deep franchise management options
- Robust online multiplayer modes
- Extensive customization for rosters and teams
- Fancy moves limited to superstar players
- No online matchmaking on PC version
- Graphics dated by modern standards
- Limited platform availability (PS3, Xbox 360 only)
- Occasional online matchmaking lag
- Learning curve for new players
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to NHL 06
View all →Alternatives to NHL 12
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataNHL 12 offers newer physics, deeper franchise mode, and online multiplayer on modern consoles, while NHL 06 runs on older hardware with split‑screen only and lacks online play.
Key differences
- •Platform: NHL 12 only on PS3/Xbox 360; NHL 06 on PC and PS2.
- •Multiplayer: NHL 12 supports online matches up to 12 players; NHL 06 limited to split‑screen two‑player.
- •Gameplay depth: NHL 12 adds dynamic AI and extensive roster customization; NHL 06 focuses on analog‑stick moves and Dynasty mode.
- •Release era: NHL 12 (2011) has newer graphics and physics engine versus NHL 06 (2005) which is dated.
- •Critic scores are close (87 vs 88) but NHL 12’s online features give it broader replay value.
Gameplay & fun factor
NHL 12 includes dynamic AI, advanced physics, and extensive customization, offering richer on‑ice experience.
Platform availability
NHL 06 runs on PC and PS2, giving more hardware options than NHL 12’s PS3/Xbox 360 only.
Price & value
Both list the same MSRP ($59.99) and are one‑time purchases.
Multiplayer / co‑op
NHL 12 supports online multiplayer up to 12 players; NHL 06 only offers split‑screen for two.
Content & replayability
NHL 12’s franchise mode, roster editing, and online modes give longer replay life than NHL 06’s limited split‑screen.
Difficulty & accessibility
NHL 06’s simpler analog‑stick controls and lower hardware demands may be easier for newcomers.
Graphics & performance
NHL 12’s HD graphics and realistic lighting are newer than NHL 06’s dated visuals.
Choose NHL 06 if…
Buyers who need PC or PS2 compatibility, prefer split‑screen local play, or have older hardware.
Choose NHL 12 if…
Buyers who want modern graphics, online multiplayer, and deep franchise management on current consoles.
Common questions
Can I play online with friends?
Yes, NHL 12 supports online multiplayer up to 12 players; NHL 06 only offers split‑screen local play.
Which game runs on my PC?
Only NHL 06 lists PC as a supported platform; NHL 12 is limited to PS3 and Xbox 360.
Is the price different between the two?
Both are priced at $59.99 MSRP, so cost is the same.






