EA Sports FC 27 finds itself in a peculiar position, introducing significant strategic improvements that genuinely reflect real-world soccer tactics, yet simultaneously failing to address long-standing issues with computer-controlled player behavior. The series attempts to innovate with the addition of an open-world "The Grounds" hub, but this feature, along with other persistent problems, often detracts from the core gameplay.
The most significant addition to FC 27 is its expanded Tactics system, which finally offers players a more intuitive and concise way to implement real-world tactical approaches. This system allows for greater control over team behavior during different phases of play, going beyond basic formations and instructions. Players can now more effectively build strategies around individual player attributes and adapt on the fly. For example, switching formations mid-match to exploit opponent weaknesses or provide better defensive coverage becomes a viable and impactful strategy. The system thoughtfully explains the purpose, strengths, and weaknesses of various tactical approaches, making the strategic side of soccer more accessible without alienating experienced players.
This strategic depth is further enhanced by revamped passing and crossing mechanics. Grounded and lobbed passes now offer more manual control over ball placement, and new curved runs allow players to move more dynamically. Crossing and corner kicks have also seen improvements, leading to more convincing positioning battles and greater control in the box, resulting in a noticeable increase in successful headed goals.
However, these gameplay advancements are repeatedly undermined by persistent issues. The behavior and pathing of computer-controlled players on the field continue to exhibit the same flaws seen for over a decade. On higher difficulties, defensive logic can break down, with CPU defenders failing to contest crucial balls or making inexplicable movements. Passing, despite the revamps, can still result in frustrating outcomes where passes intended for open teammates are misdirected. Revamped defense also struggles, with defenders easily exploited on counterattacks due to mistimed player switches.
Compounding these issues is the introduction of "The Grounds," an open-world hub designed to foster a more communal online experience. This feature, reminiscent of NBA 2K's Neighborhood, largely feels like an unnecessary addition. Navigating a visually busy, low-resolution city populated by uninspired NPCs to find game modes is inefficient compared to traditional menus. Unskippable cutscenes and stiff voice acting, including a notably detached performance from Alex Hunter (voiced again by Adetomiwa Edun) and a mechanical delivery from Kylian Mbappe, further detract from the experience. Frequent framerate drops and unnatural character animations in The Grounds fail to create an immersive environment.
Technical problems also continue to plague the multiplayer experience. Connection issues, disconnects, and server lag were frequent during the review period, often interrupting gameplay. Instances of bizarre glitches, such as a goalkeeper floating up the pitch, highlight the game's instability.
While The Grounds includes minigames like Balloon Ball and Football Tennis, their inclusion feels more suited to a spin-off title like FIFA Street. The progression within The Grounds is tied to coins and XP that can also be purchased with real money, raising concerns about the series' increasing reliance on microtransactions.
Ultimate Team has seen more flexible player upgrades, allowing for tailored PlayStyles and stats. The move towards smaller promo campaigns and a three-PlayStyle+ limit helps prevent special cards from becoming outdated too quickly. However, manual goalkeeping has become less responsive, and automated defending is easily exploited by pace-heavy attackers if player switching is mistimed. While matches yield more coins and Season Points, adjustments to base discard values for lower-tier cards diminish their trading potential.
Career Mode receives several meaningful upgrades, particularly in the transfer market, which now includes staged negotiations, installments, and bidding wars. Player development is more dynamic, influenced by form, fitness, and morale. Rivalries, origin stories, and unexpected events add further variety and consequences. CPU-controlled clubs now manage finances and recruitment around tactical needs, enhancing the mode's depth. Despite these improvements, menus remain slow, animations are recycled, and progression is still tied to the investment system introduced in EA Sports FC 24.
Ultimately, EA Sports FC 27 is a game caught between competing directions. The strategic depth offered by the improved Tactics system, coupled with advancements in Career Mode, provides meaningful enhancements. However, these positive aspects are consistently undermined by familiar AI shortcomings, technical problems, and a largely unnecessary open-world hub, leaving the series still searching for the right balance between innovation and perfecting its core experience.