Get ready, football fans! Just months before the monumental World Cup 2026 kicks off, a surprising announcement has rocked the gaming world: FIFA is launching a brand-new football game, and it’s going to be exclusive to Netflix. Yes, the streaming platform known for its vast library of shows and movies is stepping deeper into the gaming arena, making this a pivotal moment for both entertainment giants. This move follows Netflix’s recent expansion into mobile gaming, where subscribers can already enjoy titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, proving the platform is serious about its gaming ambitions.
The Team Behind the Game
The development of this new FIFA title is being handled by Delphi Interactive. While the studio has yet to release a game, they are known to be collaborating with IO Interactive on the upcoming 007 First Light. Beyond this single partnership, very little public information is available about Delphi Interactive, and their official website provides only a brief overview of their company. This lack of a proven track record has naturally sparked some concern among football enthusiasts, who are eager for a high-quality game that lives up to the FIFA name.
What to Expect from the Game
This fresh take on football simulation promises an experience that’s “easy to learn, easy to join.” Players will have the flexibility to dive into matches solo or team up with friends online. The catch? You’ll need an active Netflix subscription to access the game. The studio’s founder has expressed a clear vision: to craft the most engaging global football simulator currently available. In an interesting twist, players will also be able to use their phones as controllers when playing the game on their televisions, adding a layer of accessibility and modern convenience.
Why This Partnership Matters for Netflix
This collaboration is a massive strategic play for Netflix, especially considering recent shifts in the football gaming landscape. Just two years ago, EA and FIFA ended their long-standing partnership, leading EA Sports FIFA to rebrand as EA FC. Despite the name change, EA FC 24 still soared to become a top-selling game, highlighting the immense popularity and dedication of the football gaming community, which boasts over 150 million players worldwide.
By securing the FIFA brand, Netflix gains access to arguably the most recognized name in global sports, appealing to a vast audience, including many who might not even be aware of the EA split. Fans simply looking for “the FIFA game” will now find it exclusively on Netflix, potentially driving new subscriptions. The timing couldn’t be better either, with global interest in football set to surge as the FIFA World Cup 2026 draws near.
Looking Ahead: Launch Details
While the announcement has created a buzz, specific details about gameplay mechanics and other features are still under wraps. Fans can expect more information to be revealed as we move closer to 2026. Nevertheless, this partnership marks a significant development in the world of digital football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino himself has heralded this as the beginning of a new chapter for the sport in the digital realm, suggesting a long-term vision for this exciting venture.
Conclusion
The collaboration between FIFA and Netflix signals a bold new direction for football gaming, merging the world’s most popular sport with a leading entertainment streaming service. Despite initial questions surrounding the developer, the potential for an accessible, engaging football simulation, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, is immense. This move could not only reshape how fans experience virtual football but also solidify Netflix’s position as a serious player in the gaming industry. As more details emerge, the anticipation for this groundbreaking title will undoubtedly continue to grow.