EA Sports FC 27 will introduce a new open-world mode. Developers call it The Grounds. Up to 100 players can join a shared lobby together.
The company revealed the details on Tuesday. Officials described The Grounds as the most social way to experience the football title. Moreover, the mode will act as a social playground for friends and other online players.
Players will find the feature only on PC and current-generation consoles. Therefore, PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and Switch 2 owners can access it. In contrast, PS4, Xbox One, and original Nintendo Switch users will not receive the mode.
The Grounds draws clear inspiration from similar hubs in other sports games. It supports small-sided football matches and casual kickabouts in park settings. Furthermore, football mentors will guide players through the available activities.
Real-world stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Paulo Dybala, and Chloe Kelly will serve as mentors. Each will specialise in one of the three districts. In addition, the fictional character Alex Hunter from earlier Journey modes will return in the same role.
A central Terrace area will connect three distinct districts. Montclair reflects French football culture. Meanwhile, Zeiza takes cues from Argentina. Parkside draws from English football traditions. The Clubhouse will also house the existing Clubs experience.
Players can join dedicated 11v11 matches and 5v5 Rush games. They can also enter quick three-minute contests in 1v1, 2v2, or 3v3 formats on various pitches. As a result, the mode offers flexible match options for different group sizes.
Several football-themed minigames will appear as well. Kickabouts mix football with elements of dodgeball, basketball, and bocce. These run as three-player free-for-all contests across short rounds. Other activities include Team Keepaway, The Big Race, Attacking Scenarios, Bucket Ball, Balloon Ball, and Goal Control.
The Big Race stands out as a four-player free-for-all event. Competitors race across a full-sized pitch while navigating different obstacles.
Customisation options, emotes, and in-game stores will expand player expression. The mode will also link to the Season Pass. Premium tier buyers will receive extra rewards. Moreover, EA plans to expand The Grounds through ongoing live-service updates and in-world events.
EA Sports FC 27 launches worldwide on 25 September 2026. The game will arrive on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2. Players can choose Ultimate Plus, Ultimate, or Standard editions. Pre-ordering the higher tiers grants seven-day early access plus extra in-game bonuses.
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