GM Connected

1. EA retooled its most popular mode to include a multi-user dynasty with up to 30 NHL teams being run by 30 human general managers.

2. This new GM Connected mode features a full 82-game schedule and can run for up to 25 years.

3. EA chose against including fantasy draft because it didn't want the barrier of entry to be a tedious 45-round draft. If you want to mix up the teams so no one is forced to play with the Edmonton Oilers (zing!) you can randomize the rosters when starting the league.

4. Users can play GM Connected in several ways, including a solo league against the CPU AI, standard versus, co-op, six-on-six online team play, taking the role of a general manager, or as a coach who handles line changes and team strategy.

5. Connected GM is elastic, meaning one team could be controlled by a GM, while another is run by a hands-on player, and another is run by a coach.

6. In six-on-six online team play leagues, you can have up to 25 users per each team. This allows teams to have a ringer take the role of a regular when they're short a body.

7. Free agency includes both unrestricted and restricted free agents, and it's handled via seven bidding periods. The highest bidders win the services of the player, and if you strike out you have several more rounds to find an adequate replacement.

8. Much to the dismay of hardcore franchise guys, the NHL Entry Draft is automated. You can still scout players during the season and build a priority list of prospects. Once the draft starts, however, the CPU will use your priority list to make selections for your team.

9. While running your team you have full access to the entire list of players in the organization, including the AHL, CHL, and foreign league prospects.

10. The commissioner controls how quickly the league advances. You can opt for either three-day, one-week, or two-week periods.

11. A news panel in the menu screen keeps you abreast of all league happenings.

12. An integrated messaging system informs you of waivers, trades, and league join requests. You can also send messages to the commissioner, the entire league, or team members.

13. EA built in systems to deal with grieving and cheating. The commissioner has the power to kick out users at any time.

14. If a commissioner goes missing, other general managers can vote him out to keep the league moving along.

15. EA plans to release a mobile app that allows players to stay engaged with their leagues when they're away from their consoles. From the app, players can juggle team rosters, scour the waiver wire, propose trades, and read about league happenings.

16. If you want to keep your GM experience offline, you still have that option. Doing so will allow you to make your draft selections like in past NHL games.