Game reviews / NHL 27
NHL 27
2026 · PlayStation 5 · Xbox Series X/S · Sports · Ice hockey
4 scored sources · 3 countries contributing scores
Review consensus
NHL 27 delivers its best hockey fundamentals yet, with improved skating, passing, goaltending reactions, neutral-zone pacing, and less reckless hitting. Its team-specific playbooks and rebuilt arena atmospheres add welcome authenticity, while Connected Franchise restores a long-requested multiplayer concept. However, many of these additions feel underdeveloped: team tactics are difficult to notice or customize, Connected Franchise lacks meaningful progression and CPU opposition, and the presentation is undermined by repetitive introductions, inaccurate face scans, generic creation tools, and conspicuous AI-generated commentary. NHL 27 is enjoyable on the ice, but its modes and broader feature set feel closer to incremental updates than a substantial sequel.
Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.
Last researched: 2026-09-12
Pros
- Improved skating, passing, and neutral-zone flow
- More responsive goaltending and less reckless hitting
- Distinct arena atmospheres and licensed presentation elements
- Return of Connected Franchise multiplayer mode
Cons
- Limited innovation across returning modes
- Team-specific playbooks have little practical impact
- Connected Franchise lacks CPU teams and deeper progression
- AI commentary, face scans, and presentation polish are inconsistent
Review sources
5 sources found across 3 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.
- COGconnected · Canada · 60/100
- Gamereactor Denmark · Denmark · 60/100
- Game Informer · United States · 65/100
- IGN · United States
- Shacknews · United States · 60/100