Ice Hockey was favorably reviewed in 1982 by Video magazine where it was described as "yet another example of Activision's innovative approach to programmable video-game software" and suggested that along with Championship Soccer the game "proves that cleverly conceived sports simulations can work on the Atari VCS".
The review by Video magazine in 1982 was positive for Ice Hockey, highlighting Activision's innovative programming techniques and emphasizing that it proved successful alongside Championship Soccer as an example of how well-designed sports simulations could work on the Atari VCS.