The game NHL Hockey 2K6 takes place in a fictionalized version of the National Hockey League, where teams and players are modeled after their real-life counterparts. The story mode allows players to create their own player and guide them through a season, culminating in a championship title.
The gameplay is centered around controlling a team of ice hockey players, with an emphasis on speed, skill, and strategy. Players can perform various moves such as deking, passing, and shooting, while also attempting to defend against opponents' attacks. The game's AI is designed to provide a challenging opponent, requiring players to think carefully about their tactics.