The iconic football franchiseElectronic Arts is preparing to take a decisive turn with the release of EA Sports FC 27. After several years marked by gradual evolution since the end of the partnership with FIFA, the series could finally offer a radically different experience. At least that’s what a signed leak suggests FutSheriffrenowned for its revelations on the license.
According to this informant, “EA Sports FC 27 will be an open world game and will be called FC The Ground”. A concept that immediately evokes NBA 2K’s “The City” mode, where players can move freely, create their character and experience a connected urban immersion.
“The Ground”: an open world in a football game?
At this point, EA has not confirmed this information. But the idea of a mode open world in a football game isn’t that crazy. The approach is strongly reminiscent of the initiatives of 2K Sportswho transformed their Career mode into a veritable online metropolis.
In this context, “The Ground” would not replace the classic modes of EA Sports FC (matches, Ultimate Team, Career, etc.), but would come with complete with a new community and narrative dimension. Exploration, mini-games, free training or spontaneous multiplayer encounters: the possibilities are numerous. It remains to be seen whether this open world will be an integral part of the game or whether it will be a separate modeoptional for players looking for a different experience.
Netflix joins the game with free FIFA
This leak comes at a time when FIFA announces its big return to video gamesin partnership with Netflix Games. Planned for the 2026 World Cupthis new game will be free for all Netflix subscribers. It should be easy to access and mobile or cloud gaming oriented.
As Alain Tascan, president of Netflix Games, said, this title would “bring football back to its roots with something that everyone could play with a single click.”
A positioning that contrasts with EA’s ambition, more focused on competitive online modes and microtransactions. The Ground could thus constitute a strategic responsecapitalizing on immersion and innovation.
An EA vs FIFA battle that intensifies
Since the break between EA and FIFA in 2022, the two entities are waging a silent war on the virtual football field. EA retains the classic player base and modes, but FIFA still has a strong name, associated with powerful nostalgia.
If the information on “The Ground” is confirmed, EA FC 27 could mark a generational turning pointmoving away from the classic annual cycle. This new format would also make it possible to further exploit the game universe, with RPG, social or narrative elements that will appeal to a new audience.
While waiting for official announcements, planned like every year at the end of springspeculation is rife. But one thing is certain: 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for the game of footballbetween tradition and disruption.