FIFA Video Game Returns After Four Years as Netflix Exclusive
FIFA is making a significant return to the video game market after a four-year hiatus. The new game will be released in 2026, following the previous split with developer Electronic Arts (EA). Instead of a conventional game studio, Netflix has acquired the rights to produce this much-anticipated football title.
FIFA’s Shift to Netflix
The decision to partner with Netflix comes after FIFA and EA terminated their long-standing relationship in 2023. This split was primarily driven by licensing issues that made running the franchise increasingly expensive for EA, leading them to launch their own product under the brand name EA Sports FC.
New Development Studio
The upcoming FIFA game will be developed and published by Delphi Interactive, a studio that has no prior experience in video game releases. Netflix plans to launch the game in conjunction with the 2026 World Cup. Notably, subscribers will be able to access the game via the Netflix app on both iOS and Android devices. Moreover, the game can also be played on select TVs using smartphones as controllers.
A Legacy as the Best-Selling Franchise
The FIFA video game franchise has a storied history, with its first installment released in 1993. Over a span of 30 years, the brand became one of the most profitable video game series, boasting an estimated 150 million players worldwide. Despite the branding change, EA’s latest title, EA FC 24, continued to resonate with fans, becoming the best-selling game in the UK in 2023.
Statements from FIFA President and Development Studio
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Netflix. He highlighted that this joint venture marks an exciting new chapter for digital football. “Our reimagined game truly marks the beginning of a new era of digital football,” Infantino stated.
Casper Daugaard, the head of Delphi Interactive, also shared his aspirations for the project. He stressed their commitment to creating the most enjoyable and accessible football experience possible, emphasizing their lifelong passion for FIFA games.
Fan Reactions and Concerns
- Opinions on the announcement have been mixed among fans.
- Some supporters have expressed concern about the mobile-first approach taken by Netflix.
- A user on social media platform X remarked, “FIFA should never have left EA,” indicating skepticism about the new direction.
The return of FIFA as a video game title, especially as a Netflix exclusive, marks a bold move in the gaming industry. As anticipation builds toward its 2026 launch, many will be watching to see how this new partnership shapes the football gaming landscape.
