EA Sports FC 27 delivers a gameplay experience that feels both familiar and fresh, with incremental improvements to on-pitch mechanics and notable additions to its Ultimate Team mode. While a new open-world feature, The Grounds, attempts to diversify the experience, it is the refinements to core gameplay and the Ultimate Team Gallery that truly stand out.
Gameplay Enhancements
The core gameplay in FC 27 remains fluid and dynamic, but this iteration introduces a greater emphasis on player control, particularly on defense. The developers have nerfed CPU-assisted defense in Ultimate Team's Competitive setting, rewarding manual control of defenders more significantly. New teammate run functionalities, enhanced player control during corners, and more precise through-ball mechanics contribute to a more authentic and engaging experience. Mastering these techniques allows for more skillful play, whether cutting out passes or breaking down defenses with well-timed runs and through balls. The addition of curved runs for forwards aims to keep attacking players onside and in better positions. However, the game is not without its frustrations; frantic sequences involving rapid player switching can sometimes lead to unintended player control, and CPU teammates occasionally make questionable decisions, highlighting lingering issues that contrast with the game's new features.
The Grounds and Ultimate Team
The new open-world mode, The Grounds, presents an "old but new" vibe. This instanced, currently small-scale environment allows customizable avatars to participate in various Rushed and small-side matches, alongside existing Clubs play. Despite its potential, The Grounds does not currently serve as a compelling destination mode. Its gameplay lacks the depth and interest to rival established modes like NBA 2K's City, and its separation from Player Career limits its overall ambition. The mode also seems geared more towards dedicated players aiming for FC Season points and Ultimate Team rewards, potentially alienating more casual players.
Ultimate Team remains a central focus, enhanced by the new Gallery feature. Similar to Squad Building Challenges, the Gallery allows players to submit themed sets of club players for rewards. A key element is the ability to re-grade sets by incorporating better player cards, striving for higher scores and grades. Players can even include former club members in these submissions. To facilitate this, players begin UT this year with more coins and tradeable items, offering a stronger starting point for engaging with the Gallery. The only notable drawback is its presentation as a static trophy room rather than an interactive space.
Career Mode Evolution
Manager and Player Career modes have received more granular, less impactful changes. Guiding a team or a created player to glory feels more intuitive, with the removal of training plans and the introduction of Manager Career's Dynamic OVR system for players, which tracks form, fitness, and morale. Negotiation processes are enhanced with a "Tension" meter, and unexpected in-game events, such as competing for a rival's transfer target, add a layer of excitement. However, the rivalry system in Player Career remains underdeveloped, consisting of a simple stat comparison screen that lacks the fanfare needed to create memorable moments. Despite these improvements, Career modes can still be hampered by inconsistent CPU logic. Instances of players requesting transfers without clear justification, and with no option for the manager to block them as in previous titles, highlight lingering issues that EA continues to address incrementally.