Start Your EA SPORTS NHL 27 Season Now With EA Play
Subscribers to EA Play can now access a 10-hour early trial of EA Sports NHL 27, featuring the new Connected Franchise mode and overhauled arenas. The subscription service also offers a 10 percent discount on digital purchases alongside various in-game rewards for September.
Electronic Arts has launched a 10-hour early access trial for EA Sports NHL 27, allowing EA Play members to experience the latest hockey simulation ahead of its standard release. This trial period lets players test out all the new features and mechanics, with the added benefit of carrying over all accumulated progress to the full version of the game upon purchase. Alongside the trial, subscribers are eligible for a 10 percent discount on digital purchases from EA, which applies to the full game download, NHL Points, and other virtual items.
A major addition to this year's iteration is the Connected Franchise mode, which allows players to establish online leagues with their peers. This mode supports up to 32 human-controlled teams competing across a complete online season. To facilitate league management, the mode provides commissioners with customizable settings, scheduling options, and roster management tools, giving players the flexibility to run their custom leagues according to their own preferences.
The visual and atmospheric presentation of the game has also undergone a significant overhaul. Developers have rebuilt all 32 official NHL arenas to better reflect the unique traditions, energy, and identity of each home team. This includes the integration of authentic goal songs, specific crowd chants, and signature arena details. Additionally, dynamic lighting systems, updated jumbotrons, and team-specific presentations have been implemented to make the virtual venues react dynamically to the events unfolding on the ice.
Complementing the arena upgrades is a completely redesigned broadcast package aimed at delivering a modern and clean presentation. The game features updated camera angles, fresh broadcast graphics, and enhanced on-screen storytelling. These elements are designed to provide players with deeper context and analysis before the puck drops, during breaks in play, and throughout the post-whistle highlights.
In addition to early access, EA Play members can claim specific seasonal rewards for NHL 27. Available until November 19, these perks include 3,000 Chel Coins and World of Chel Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens to help players boost their progression. These incentives are part of a broader monthly rewards program offered to subscribers across various EA sports and multiplayer franchises.
Beyond the hockey rink, EA Play's September rewards lineup features benefits for several other major titles. Players of EA Sports Madden NFL 27 can secure a September MUT Pack and an EA Play Welcome Pack until September 30. Similarly, EA Sports College Football 27 players can claim a College Football Ultimate Team Pack and a Welcome Pack by the end of the month. Meanwhile, Battlefield 6 players can access the Season 4 EA Play Pack until October 12, and Apex Legends players can acquire the Gold Tiny Tunes Weapon Charm through October 4.
Source: Xbox Wire — original reporting
Updated