EA Sports FC 27 Release Date, Top Player Ratings, New Features, Preview and More

The upcoming release of EA Sports FC 27 promises gamers the closest thing to playing on the pitch with soccer's top stars.

When can fans get their hands on this year's release, who are this year's highest-rated players, and what are a few of the new modes and upgrades they can expect from it?

Find out with this preview.

Release Information

Mateo Villalba/Getty Images

Early Release: September 18

Full Release: September 25

Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch and Steam for PC

Cover Athlete: Kylian Mbappé (Standard and Ultimate); Mbappé and Jude Bellingham (Ultimate Plus)

Top Rated Players

Kylian Mbappé (91)

Alexia Putellas (91)

Erling Haaland (91)

Lamine Yamal (90)

Harry Kane (90)

Aitana Bonmatí (90)

Ousmane Dembélé (90)

Rodri (90)

Michael Olise (90)

Thibaut Courtois (90)

Khadija Shaw (90)

Pedri (90)

Vitinha (90)

Jude Bellingham (90)

Updated Features

The Grounds

This year's release takes the game from the pitch to the streets, with the ability to play one-on-one, in kickabouts, and in teams with friends.

Access to this mode is limited to players using the latest generation platforms, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC and Nintendo Switch 2.

Reducing AI's Gameplay Influence

Players will have more command over defending in this year's game, thanks to a concentrated effort to reduce AI's influence on that element of the game.

According to the game's official website, "Previously, AI-controlled defenders could automatically attempt to win the ball when a dribbler came close enough to them. In FC 27, defenders will now rely more on their positioning and support the play until you take control and choose when to make a tackle."

Manually controlled defenders will have increased speed to help them keep up with the offensive attack.

These changes, as well as improvements to corner kick mechanisms bring added realism to the game as EA continues to implement changes to improve the overall gaming experience.

Rebuilt Transfer Market

Players will have to stave off opposing clubs as they actively bid on players, with more realistic player values at play.

"Master new negotiation tactics, including performance and buy-back clauses, as Dynamic OVRs reflect player form, morale, and fitness across every club," the website adds.

As is the case in most of the popular gaming releases these days, emphasis is placed on authenticity and making the experience as true-to-sport as it can be.