How To Download The Free NHL 27 Trial With EA Play & Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
EA has launched a 10-hour free trial for NHL 27, available through EA Play—which is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions. The trial became available on September 4th, 2026, coinciding with the game’s early access release window.
The trial started at 9am PT / 12pm ET / 5pm BST on the release date. This free trial window provides players with an opportunity to sample the latest entry in the long-running hockey simulation franchise before committing to a full purchase. Subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate gain automatic access to the trial as part of their EA Play benefits, making it an accessible way for Game Pass members to experience the new hockey sim.
The 10-hour trial duration is typical for EA’s early-access offerings and allows players sufficient time to test the game’s core features and gameplay modes. EA Play integration with Game Pass continues the partnership’s strategy of providing subscribers with exclusive access to new game releases and trials, expanding the value proposition of the subscription service.