# 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.
- Title: NHL 27 is out, and Connected Franchise is back · Mashable
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: gaming, nhl 27, ea sports, hockey, playstation, technology, culture, NHL, Connected, Franchise, back, Mashable
- Source: Mashable — https://mashable.com/entertainment/ea-sports-nhl-27-launch
- Author: Soumya Kumar
- Published: 2026-09-15T10:29:02+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: gaming, nhl 27, ea sports, hockey, playstation, technology, culture
## 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?
## Key takeaway

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.