The new game is set to compete with EA FC, after FIFA parted ways with Electronic Arts in 2023, and will be available before the 2026 World Cup finals.
New partners for a new era
After EA stopped using the “FIFA” name due to high license costs and continued with its own FC brand, FIFA announced that it would return on its own. Now those plans have finally come true. Netflix has revealed that the new FIFA will be developed and published by Delphi Interactive, marking their first major foray into the gaming industry. Subscribers will be able to play the game online through the Netflix application on iOS and Android devices, as well as on selected TVs, reports Index.hr.
What to expect from the new game?
EA Sports released its first FIFA game back in 1993 and dominated the soccer simulation market for 30 years, attracting a reported 150 million players. Now those players are offered an alternative to well-known modes such as Ultimate Team and Clubs.
The official announcement reads: “When the world comes together to celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fans will be able to play the newly-imagined FIFA soccer simulation exclusively on Netflix Games.”
Users are promised the opportunity to “experience the emotion and drama of the tournament in its purest, most joyful form: quick to learn, exciting to master and made for anyone who wants to jump in. The fun will be just a click away, and anyone can play – alone or with friends online. All you need is Netflix and your phone.”
High expectations of leaders
Millions of subscribers around the world already use Netflix to watch blockbuster movies and hit series, and now the offer is expanding to include games. The new FIFA joins a number of titles that allow members to use their phone as a controller.
Alain Tascan, president of gaming at Netflix, said: “The FIFA World Cup will be a cultural event in 2026, and now fans will be able to celebrate their passion by bringing the game directly into their living rooms. We want to bring football back to its roots with something everyone can play at the touch of a button.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino added: “FIFA is very excited to be partnering with Netflix Games and Delphi Interactive ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This major collaboration is a key milestone in FIFA’s commitment to innovation in the football gaming space, which aims to reach billions of football fans of all ages around the world and will redefine the pure idea of simulation games. Our reimagined game truly marks the beginning of a new era of digital football. It will be available free of charge to Netflix members and marks a historic milestone.” a step for FIFA.”
Although the official release date of the new FIFA game has not yet been confirmed, more information has been promised during 2026, before the start of the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico. Reactions on social media to the announcement were mixed.
Many long-time fans of the franchise have expressed doubt that a mobile-first approach, as opposed to console-friendly versions of the past, is the right path for the series’ future. The answers to those questions are still awaited.
(Vijesti.ba)
