NHL 27 from EA Sports released on PS5 and Xbox Series - first details

On September 11, 2026, EA Sports released NHL 27 , a new part of the hockey simulator, available exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S . The face of the game was young San Jose Sharks forward McClean Celebrini, the team's first player on the cover of the series in more than two decades.

Updated presentation

The main innovation of NHL 27 concerns the television component. Matches are now commentated by ESPN anchor John Buccigross and TNT pundit Darren Pang . The developers have completely redesigned the broadcast graphics, arena design and general atmosphere in order to bring virtual hockey as close as possible to real NHL matches.

The game features all 32 league arenas with updated lighting and detail. The system of replays and statistical panels has received a noticeable improvement in visual readability.

Gameplay and modes

In NHL 27, the developers placed an emphasis on dynamic tactical schemes based on real-life strategies of NHL teams. Enemy AI has become more aggressive in the mid zone, and goalies have improved animations for reacting to close shots.

The return of Connected Franchise mode allows players to create their own leagues with friends, a feature that fans of the series have been waiting for for several years. Be a Pro mode continues to develop the career component with an improved system of dialogues and media interactions.

Technical details

NHL 27 did not receive versions for PC, Nintendo Switch and previous generation consoles. EA Sports focused exclusively on the current generation, allowing for more detailed player models and improved puck physics. However, social network users have already noted irregularities in the face scans of some hockey players.

The Standard Edition is available for $69.99, and the Early Access Deluxe Edition is available for $99.99.

Source: ea.com , ixbt.games