EA Play members can now start a 10-hour early access trial for EA SPORTS NHL 27, giving them a chance to test the new Connected Franchise mode, refreshed presentation, and rebuilt NHL arenas before deciding whether to buy the full game.
Xbox’s September EA Play update confirms that trial progress transfers to the full version. Members can also save 10% on eligible EA digital purchases, including NHL 27, NHL Points, and game downloads.
Connected Franchise brings full online seasons to NHL 27
Connected Franchise lets friends create a league, build rosters, manage teams, set schedules, and compete through a full online season. The mode supports up to 32 human-controlled teams and includes customizable league settings plus commissioner tools for players who want more control over how their competition runs.
EA has also rebuilt all 32 NHL arenas around each team’s identity. Goal songs, crowd chants, lighting, jumbotrons, and other arena details react to the action, giving home games a presentation tailored to the club on the ice.
A refreshed broadcast package adds updated graphics, camera work, and more in-game storytelling before the puck drops, between whistles, and during highlights. Those changes are joined by the new Connected Franchise features as the main additions available during the trial.
September EA Play rewards run across several games
NHL 27 players can claim 3,000 Chel Coins and WOC Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens through November 19. EA Play members can also receive monthly rewards across other EA games, with the current benefits tracked on the EA Play Member Benefits page.
Apex Legends has a Gold Tiny Tunes Weapon Charm available through October 4. EA SPORTS Madden NFL 27 players can claim a September MUT Pack through September 30, along with an EA Play Welcome Pack. EA SPORTS College Football 27 offers a College Football Ultimate Team Pack through September 30 and its own Welcome Pack, while Battlefield 6 members can claim a Season 4 EA Play Pack through October 12.
If you are trying the NHL 27 trial or claiming this month’s rewards, tell us what you think in the comments, and follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, Instagram, Steam, and Telegram.
