EA FC 27 devs say new open world mode isn’t just about selling microtransactions

The devs behind EA FC 27 have responded to concerns that The Grounds open-world mode will be used as a way to get players to spend more money.

The Grounds is the marquee new feature in the game this year; a social hub where players can explore with friends and take part in soccer-themed minigames. It’s a huge extension of Clubs, as the character controlled in the open world is the same one who signs for a friend’s team.

But while it’s something that many fans have wanted for years, the announcement did come with a few concerns that it would be used to peddle microtransactions. The NBA series has a similar feature, which features tons of cosmetics that can be bought for real money.

Now, the devs behind The Grounds have responded to these worries.

The Grounds won’t be about spending money in FC 27

“Our goal, very intentionally, has been to provide players with rewards based on how much time they’re spending and how much power they’re earning, and to do all of that without needing to worry about spend or microtransactions,” Producer Karthik Venkateshan told Dexerto at a preview event.

“That has been a cornerstone of this mode.”

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He went on to confirm that there will be microtransactions available in The Ground, but these won’t be a way for players to get ahead of the game, as they’re more tailored to those who have taken a break and need to close the gap.

“Are there microtransactions or spend opportunities? 100% there is,” Venkateshan continued. “But they’re largely positioned around catch-up or, ‘I’ve come back and I have to go up this many levels, what are some things I can do to help me get to where the community is over X months.”

EA FC 27 players can try out The Grounds for themselves, as well as the new features in Ultimate Team and Career Mode, when the Closed Beta goes live on August 5.