The iconic football video game franchise, FIFA, is poised for a notable resurgence, this time under the exclusive banner of Netflix. This partnership marks a significant departure from the traditional gaming landscape that fans have come to expect, with a scheduled release ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Following a split with Electronic Arts (EA) that ended a decades-long collaboration, FIFA had been absent from the gaming arena since EA rebranded its popular series as EA Sports FC in 2023 due to licensing complications. The decision to align with Netflix signals a bold new direction for the franchise, as it opts to enter the competitive gaming market through an unconventional platform.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, describing it as “the beginning of a new era of digital football.” Infantino emphasized that the game will be made available at no additional cost to Netflix subscribers, which he views as a pivotal moment in FIFA’s digital expansion strategy.
Reactions from fans have varied widely. While many have embraced the news as a welcome return of a beloved franchise, others have raised concerns regarding the game’s mobile-first approach. This strategy suggests the game will cater primarily to mobile devices, given that it will be accessible via the Netflix app on iOS and Android, as well as select televisions. Players will utilize their smartphones as controllers, which may limit the experience for some traditional console enthusiasts.
In a noteworthy detail, the new FIFA title will be developed by Delphi Interactive, a California-based studio with no prior game releases. Entrusting such a significant franchise to a relatively unknown developer raises questions about the title’s execution and quality. Nonetheless, FIFA’s decision reflects a willingness to innovate and explore new avenues within the gaming sphere.
The collaboration with Netflix also underscores the growing trend of streaming platforms expanding into interactive content. As Netflix seeks to diversify its offerings beyond traditional streaming, the acquisition of exclusive game rights aligns with its broader strategy to engage subscribers in new and immersive ways.
FIFA’s return presents a unique opportunity for the franchise to redefine its identity in a rapidly changing digital landscape. With the global popularity of football, the timing of this launch is strategic, coinciding with the anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup, which promises to be a landmark event in sports history.
As FIFA prepares to unveil its new title, the gaming community will be watching closely to see how this bold venture unfolds. The success of this initiative may not only shape the future of FIFA as a gaming entity but could also influence how other sports organizations engage with digital platforms in the years to come.
