From Mashable · Soumya Kumar · · 1m 30s
NHL 27 is out, and Connected Franchise is back
EA's hockey sim returns with rebuilt arenas, real NHL tracking data, and the online league mode fans begged for.
In brief
EA's hockey sim returns with rebuilt arenas, real NHL tracking data, and the online league mode fans begged for. The 32-team online Connected Franchise is the headline feature, and it's why lapsed players have a real reason to come back this year. Originally reported by Mashable.
NHL 27 drops worldwide
EA Sports released NHL 27 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Standard Edition runs $69.99, or $99.99 for the Deluxe with 4,600 NHL Points, HUT Packs, and day-one digital bonuses.
A new voice in the booth
ESPN's John Buccigross takes over play-by-play next to former NHL goalie Darren Pang, so every big save gets fresh color commentary in digital surround sound.
“Out with the old, in with the new.”
Teams play like themselves
Real NHL EDGE tracking data drives every team's AI, so squads run their actual tactics instead of one generic strategy. High-speed rushes, aggressive forechecking, the works.
Real coaches in HUT
You can sign real-world NHL coaches in Hockey Ultimate Team and get chemistry boosts tied to their authentic coaching systems.
All 32 arenas rebuilt
Every home venue was overhauled from the ice up: real goal songs, team chants, custom jumbotrons, dynamic lighting, plus sharper broadcast graphics and camera angles.
Connected Franchise returns
The most requested feature in the game's community history is back. Run a 32-team online league with 31 friends, full schedules, custom trade rules, and commissioner tools.
“Ready to take your couch rivalry online?”
The essence
The 32-team online Connected Franchise is the headline feature, and it's why lapsed players have a real reason to come back this year.
