Netflix to add football video game based on FIFA World Cup 2026
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Netflix said the game will launch in time for the FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to start June 2026.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Follow topic:
- Netflix will add a football simulation game developed by Delphi Interactive in association with FIFA, aiming for a June 2026 launch.
- Netflix is considering purchasing Warner Bros Discovery's gaming studios for US$72 billion to enter the big-budget games market.
- Netflix prioritises recognisable franchises, like GTA: San Andreas, while expanding its gaming portfolio with TV-playable party games.
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Netflix said on Dec 17 that it will add a football simulation title to its gaming portfolio, as the streaming giant looks to leverage the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament to deepen its video game push.
The football title will be developed and published by Delphi Interactive, which is also helping create a premium James Bond game called 007 First Light, and in association with the sport’s governing body, FIFA.
Netflix said the game will launch in time for the world’s most-watched sporting event, scheduled to start June 2026 in the US.
The company is also currently the front-runner for buying several of Warner Bros Discovery’s assets
Heavy investments to boost Netflix’s gaming ambitions have not been highly successful amid shifts in leadership and strategy.
The firm has prioritised party games and recognisable franchises including Rockstar Games’ GTA: San Andreas and Red Dead Redemption.
Buying Warner Bros’ gaming studios, which include the makers of popular franchises such as Mortal Kombat, Batman Arkham and Hogwarts Legacy would allow the streaming pioneer entry into the highly lucrative, big-budget games market.
The FIFA game joins a suite of games playable on televisions, including party games such as LEGO Party! and Pictionary: Game Night, in which phones are used as controllers. REUTERS
