'NHL 27' has launched — everything you need to know about Connected Franchise, arena atmospheres, and playbooks

TL;DR: EA Sports NHL 27 is out now on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. The newest entry brings 32 rebuilt arena atmospheres, real-world data playbooks, a fresh broadcast duo featuring John Buccigross and Darren Pang, and the long-awaited return of the 32-team online Connected Franchise.

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Credit: EA Sports

NHL 27 (PS5)

$69 at Amazon

 

Shop Now

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Credit: EA Sports

NHL 27 (Xbox)

$69.99 at Amazon

 

Shop Now

If you've been waiting for a reason to jump back into virtual hockey, EA Sports just dropped NHL 27 worldwide on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The game is available in two editions: a $69.99 Standard Edition for the base game, and a $99.99 Deluxe Edition that adds 4,600 NHL Points, HUT Packs, and day-one digital bonuses.

Whether you're a casual player looking to throw hits on the weekend or a strategist eager to run a 32-team online league with your friends, this year’s entry comes with serious upgrades.

Who’s on the mic?

Out with the old, in with the new. ESPN’s John Buccigross takes over play-by-play duties alongside former NHL goalie and TNT analyst Darren Pang. That means every big save or missed open-netter comes with Pang's signature color analysis and high-energy breakdowns in crisp digital surround sound.

Real-world NHL EDGE data powers every team's AI behavior. That means every squad executes its real-life tactics — from high-speed rush plays to aggressive forechecking — instead of sharing generic strategies. You can even grab real-world NHL coaches in Hockey Ultimate Team (HUT) to boost your squad’s chemistry based on authentic coaching systems.

The big upgrades on and off the ice

EA completely overhauled all 32 home venues from the ice up. Expect authentic goal songs, unique crowd chants, team-specific jumbotrons, and dynamic arena lighting that matches real-world game-night energy. Upgraded broadcast graphics, sharper camera angles, and dynamic crowd reactions give every matchup a cleaner, modern feel from puck drop to the final horn.

Beyond the visual overhaul, the most requested feature in community history is finally back. Connected Franchise lets you build an online league with up to 31 of your friends, complete with 32 human-controlled teams, full-season schedules, custom trade rules, flexible roster management, and deep commissioner tools.

If you're an EA Play member, you can also test the waters with a 10-hour free trial before buying. Subscriptions knock 10% off digital orders, bringing the Deluxe price down to $89.99, and toss in 3,000 bonus Chel Coins with Season Pass XP multipliers.

Ready to take your couch rivalry online? Pick up NHL 27 today and start building your 32-team franchise.