EA Sports FC 27 is reportedly introducing a new mode called The Grounds, designed as an online social hub where up to 100 players can meet, compete in football activities, customize their avatars, and progress through a shared leveling system.

Rather than functioning as a traditional open world, The Grounds appears to be a large interactive space similar to the social hubs found in other online games. Players will be able to explore different areas, communicate with other users, complete objectives, and participate in a variety of small and full-sized matches.

Available activities are expected to include 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, 5v5 Rush, and traditional 11v11 games. Additional Kickabout modes reportedly include Balloon Ball, Bocce Ball, Bucket Ball, Goal Control, Team Keepaway, and The Big Race.

Avatar progression will use RPG-style systems. By completing matches, training drills, and mentor objectives, players can earn XP, improve statistics and abilities, unlock cosmetic items, and gain new PlayStyles that can also be used in Pro Clubs.

Mentors are said to include Kylian Mbappé, Paulo Dybala, Chloe Kelly, and Alex Hunter, the central character from FIFA 17’s The Journey story mode. Progression across The Grounds will also be connected to the EA Sports FC 27 Season Pass.

The new hub will be divided into three districts inspired by different football cultures. Parkside takes influence from English football and emphasizes social activities, while the French-inspired Montclair focuses on training and player development. Zeiza is described as a modern Argentine-inspired district where highly skilled players can compete for stronger rewards.

The Grounds will be closely connected to Pro Clubs, with the same avatar appearing and developing across both modes. Players will primarily improve their character in The Grounds before using those upgrades in Clubs Leagues, Play-Offs, Live Tournaments, and other competitive activities.

EA also plans to support the mode through a live-service structure. New milestones, weekly objectives, seasonal challenges, elite activities, and temporary events are expected to appear throughout the game’s lifecycle.

Microtransactions will be included, although their complete structure has not yet been detailed. Cosmetic purchases and virtual currency appear likely, while additional progression-related options remain unconfirmed.

The Grounds will not be available on every platform. The mode is planned for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2, while PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and the original Nintendo Switch versions will not include it.

EA Sports FC 27 is currently scheduled to launch on September 25, 2026, for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo platforms.