Category: Gaming

  • Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM3 Monitor Features Black Shield and Boost

    Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM3 Monitor Features Black Shield and Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM3 is set for a 2026 update, featuring a 240Hz QD-OLED panel and maintaining a 31.5-inch size with full 4K resolution.

    2. The design remains largely unchanged, with notable features like a glowing ROG logo on the back and an LED projecting the logo onto the desk.

    3. A new “Black Shield” feature reduces ambient light reflection, making blacks appear 40% darker, and the screen surface is 2.5 times more scratch-resistant.

    4. The monitor includes enhanced connectivity options, such as USB-C with 90W Power Delivery, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20 for increased bandwidth.

    5. The “Neo Proximity Sensor” automatically dims the screen when the user is away, helping to save energy and minimize burn-in risk.

    The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM, which starts at $887 on Amazon, was among the first 32-inch gaming monitors to feature a 240Hz QD-OLED panel. It seems that Asus is planning to update this monitor for 2026, as VideoCardz has already found the ROG Swift PG32UCDM3 on Asus’ website, along with some initial images and specifications.

    Design and Specifications

    Asus isn’t making any significant changes to the design; the monitor still has a glowing ROG logo on the back and an LED that casts the ROG logo onto your desk. Most of the technical specifications are similar as well, meaning the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM3 will continue to be a 31.5-inch gaming monitor with full 4K resolution, a refresh rate of 240Hz, and a response time of 0.03 milliseconds.

    New Features

    A key new feature is the “Black Shield,” which aims to minimize ambient light reflection, making blacks look 40% darker in bright environments. Additionally, the screen’s surface is now 2.5 times more resistant to scratches. It has been certified for VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500, guaranteeing at least 300 nits brightness all over the screen and a peak HDR brightness of 500 nits.

    Connectivity and Power Management

    Moreover, in addition to USB-C with 90W Power Delivery and HDMI 2.1, the 4K OLED gaming monitor now includes DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20, offering an impressive bandwidth of 80 Gbps, replacing the older DisplayPort 1.4 with 32 Gbps. The new “Neo Proximity Sensor” feature can automatically dim the screen when the user steps away from the desk, helping to save energy and reduce the risk of burn-in.

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  • Abxylute M4 Raises Over $300K on Kickstarter, Introduces Sixth Color

    Abxylute M4 Raises Over $300K on Kickstarter, Introduces Sixth Color

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Abxylute M4 Snap-On mobile controller raised over $300,000 on Kickstarter from 5,850 backers.
    2. The campaign unlocked an additional color option, Halo Green, bringing the total to six colors.
    3. Initial colors included Retro White, Phantom Black, Cosmic Orange, NGC Indigo, and Atomic Purple.
    4. Pre-orders are available on Abxylute’s website for $45, higher than the Kickstarter price of $39.
    5. The final retail price of the controller will be set at $49, with shipping expected to start in January 2026.

    It’s been over a month since Abxylute introduced its mobile controller, the M4 Snap-On, on Kickstarter. The project quickly met its crowdfunding target of $1,287, even though the campaign was set to end on December 23. That date has now arrived, and Abxylute has revealed that it garnered more than $300,000 in pledges for the magnetic controller.

    Pledges Received

    As reported by Kickstarter, the Abxylute M4 Snap-On Mobile Controller attracted $307,939 from 5,850 backers. Before the campaign closed, Abxylute promised that reaching the $300,000 goal would unlock an extra color option named Halo Green. Since the total contributions exceeded this amount, Abxylute confirmed that the M4 Snap-On will indeed come in green.

    Color Options

    The Halo Green shade is the sixth and final color for the Abxylute M4. Initially, the controller was launched in Retro White and Phantom Black. A Cosmic Orange version was then revealed before the Kickstarter campaign went live. During the campaign itself, Abxylute introduced two more colors—NGC Indigo and Atomic Purple—linked to specific crowdfunding milestones, similar to the Halo Green option.

    Now that the campaign has concluded, Abxylute announced that anyone who missed the chance to pre-order during the campaign can now do so on their website. However, the pre-order price on the website is $45, up from the Kickstarter price of $39. After the pre-order phase ends, the Abxylute M4 will have its final retail price set at $49. Customers can find all six colors available on the website, with shipping expected to start in January 2026.

    Before Buying

    If you’re thinking about buying the Abxylute M4 Snap-On phone controller, make sure to check out our review to learn about what you can expect.

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  • Final Fantasy 9 Remake Hype Grows After Troubled Anime Reboot

    Final Fantasy 9 Remake Hype Grows After Troubled Anime Reboot

    Key Takeaways

    1. No Final Fantasy 9 Remake Announcement: Despite hopes for a remake during the 25th anniversary, Square Enix did not reveal any plans for Final Fantasy 9.

    2. Merchandise for Fans: Square Enix is releasing a variety of merchandise to celebrate the game and keep fans engaged.

    3. Anime Project Revived: The anime project “Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages’ Legacy” is set to launch in 2028, focusing on Vivi’s children and their adventures.

    4. Uncertainty Around Game Development: Speculation continues regarding a Final Fantasy 9 remake, with some leaks suggesting the game’s development may be paused.

    5. Focus on Other Remakes: Square Enix is currently focusing on its successful Final Fantasy 7 remake trilogy, with new releases planned for 2024.

    The long-awaited Final Fantasy 9 remake didn’t show up during the celebration of the game’s 25th birthday. However, Square Enix is keeping the spirit alive for fans by releasing a ton of merchandise. The latest news comes from a troubled anime project that is making a comeback. After the original producer went bankrupt, a French studio is now set to launch Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages’ Legacy in 2028.

    Anime Project Update

    This anime first appeared in 2021, but not much has happened since then until Cyber Group Studios hit financial trouble in April 2025. According to RPG Site, Euro Visual has taken over the creative direction of the project. A report from the French magazine Ecran Total gives a quick rundown on what the 2D anime will be about.

    The story will focus on Vivi’s children and is targeted at viewers aged 6 to 13. Characters like Mel, Koln, and Luciola enjoy a peaceful life in Alexandria until problems, likely tied to their father, start to arise. Vivi, the black mage, is well-known to fans of Final Fantasy 9, and the storyline aligns with earlier rumors about the show.

    Fans Speculate

    While some fans are thrilled about this news, many are curious about what it means for a potential new game. Screen Rant has pointed out that the title was spotted on a leaked Nvidia GeForce Now list back in 2021. Since that time, 7 out of the 8 games that were leaked have been released, including Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles in September. Still, Square Enix has not confirmed that a Final Fantasy 9 remake is in development.

    The chances of revisiting the ninth mainline Final Fantasy game looked dim in October. Notable leaker NateTheHate2 hinted that its development might be paused. Maybe by the time the anime premieres in 2028, there will be some positive news regarding the game’s progress.

    What’s Next for Square Enix?

    For now, Square Enix seems to be putting all its energy into its successful remake trilogy. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is set to be released on the Switch 2 and Xbox in January. With Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth already available on PC and PlayStation, fans are eagerly waiting for the announcement of the unnamed part 3.

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  • Samsung G60H Monitor: 1,040Hz Refresh Rate & Odyssey OLED G8 Announced

    Samsung G60H Monitor: 1,040Hz Refresh Rate & Odyssey OLED G8 Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SH) features a 32-inch QD-OLED screen with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and a refresh rate of 240Hz.
    2. It offers improved brightness levels, certified with VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500, achieving a full-screen brightness of 300 nits and peak HDR brightness of 500 nits.
    3. The monitor includes an anti-glare finish for better viewing experiences.
    4. The Samsung Odyssey G6 (G60H) can reach a refresh rate of 1,040Hz at 1280 x 720 pixels and 600Hz at 2560 x 1440 pixels, aimed at professional e-sports players.
    5. Official launch details for both monitors will be confirmed at CES 2026, with the G80SH likely priced around $899.

    The Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SH) is set to make its big debut at CES 2026 this coming January, but Samsung has already shared an image along with some important specifications. This gaming monitor boasts a 32-inch QD-OLED screen that has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and a refresh rate of 240Hz.

    Improved Brightness and Features

    In comparison to its predecessor, the Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SH) is anticipated to offer improved brightness levels. It holds the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification, ensuring a full-screen brightness of 300 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 500 nits at 2% APL. Additionally, this monitor comes with an anti-glare finish. Moreover, Samsung has also launched a new 32-inch 3D monitor featuring 6K resolution, along with one of the fastest 27-inch screens available.

    Specifications of the Odyssey G6

    The Samsung Odyssey G6 (G60H) can achieve an impressive refresh rate of 1,040Hz when the resolution is set to 1280 x 720 pixels. At its maximum resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, it still provides a refresh rate of 600Hz. Regardless of the resolution, the monitor incorporates AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync technology to minimize screen tearing by adjusting the refresh rate in real-time according to the game’s frame rate. This model is particularly aimed at professional e-sports players and gaming enthusiasts.

    Upcoming Launch Details

    The official launch details for these new Samsung OLED gaming monitors are expected to be confirmed at CES 2026 in January. It is likely that the Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SH) will be priced similarly to its older counterpart, the G80SD, which starts at $899 on Amazon.

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  • Samsung Odyssey G90XH 6K Gaming Monitor: 165Hz, Glasses-Free 3D

    Samsung Odyssey G90XH 6K Gaming Monitor: 165Hz, Glasses-Free 3D

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Odyssey 3D G90FX monitor will start at $1,460 and debut at CES 2026.
    2. The monitor size increases from 27 inches to 32 inches, with a resolution upgrade from 4K to 6K.
    3. It features a high refresh rate of 165Hz, with a Dual Mode option that can double the frame rate to 330Hz at a lower resolution.
    4. The monitor can display 3D content without requiring glasses, utilizing eye tracking technology for a personalized experience.
    5. Samsung is working with game developers to optimize specific titles for the 3D display, including games like The First Berserker Khazan and Lies of P Overture.

    The new Samsung Odyssey 3D G90FX, which will have a starting price of $1,460 on Amazon, is set to make its official appearance at CES 2026 in early January. But Samsung has already disclosed several key features of their upcoming gaming monitor ahead of time. Notably, the size of the monitor is increasing from 27 inches to 32 inches, while the resolution is also getting a bump from 4K to 6K. This puts Samsung in line with Apple’s pricey Pro Display XDR in terms of resolution.

    Enhanced Refresh Rate

    In addition to the impressive resolution, Samsung’s monitor boasts a high refresh rate of 165Hz. There’s also a feature called Dual Mode that can double the frame rate to 330Hz, although this typically means the resolution is halved. Nevertheless, the high 6K resolution allows for a pixel count of roughly 3008 x 1692 pixels. One standout feature of the Odyssey OLED 3D G90XH is its ability to display 3D content without requiring users to wear 3D glasses.

    Eye Tracking Technology

    This feature is designed for individual users, as the 3D image is finely tuned to match the user’s line of sight using a camera equipped with eye tracking. This technology enables a realistic 3D effect, even when the viewer is looking at the monitor from a slight angle. Moreover, Samsung is collaborating with game developers to enhance specific titles for this 3D display. Some of the games that will be supported include The First Berserker Khazan, Lies of P Overture, and Stellar Blade. More information regarding the specifications, pricing, and release date of the new Odyssey OLED 3D is anticipated to be revealed during CES 2026.

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  • Hideo Kojima Says AI Is Making Games and Art Less Special

    Hideo Kojima Says AI Is Making Games and Art Less Special

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kojima emphasizes the importance of incorporating personal passions and experimenting in his creative process to engage players.
    2. He relies on self-research through books, documentaries, and libraries instead of a team for historical accuracy in his games.
    3. Kojima reflects on Metal Gear Solid 2, noting it served as a cautionary tale about a digital future rather than a prediction of an AI takeover.
    4. He praises indie developers for their innovation, while criticizing AAA studios for playing it safe with unoriginal content.
    5. Kojima hints at his upcoming project, Physint, and expresses interest in collaborating with film professionals for its development.

    Hideo Kojima has been busy giving some really interesting interviews this year. Recently, he took the time to interview himself for Wired’s Tech Support series, where he responded to fan questions about his creativity, the future of gaming, and his perspective on AI.

    Creative Process and Storytelling

    In the Wired chat, Kojima shed light on how he crafts his stories and worlds, mentioning that he always incorporates his own passions. He believes that players must sense “the creator’s love” in every detail, and he emphasized that experimenting is key to keeping things fresh and captivating.

    Inspirations and Research

    Kojima shared his admiration for films, which greatly affect his work, and he addressed the current trends in the gaming scene. He pointed out that he doesn’t depend on a team of experts for historical research. Instead, he reads books every day, watches documentaries, browses news online, and occasionally visits the library for more information.

    He humorously remarked, “If you’re watching and thinking, ‘I’ll be Kojima’s right-hand man!’, please reach out to me.” He elaborated on how he personally adjusts and tests game difficulty, story flow, and sound quality by alternating between speakers and headphones. He stressed that “It’s a very important stage” and mentioned that “Not many do this, I think.”

    Reflections on Metal Gear Solid 2

    Kojima also discussed Metal Gear Solid 2, a game that has made predictions that align to some extent with today’s social media reality. He clarified that the game was not meant to predict an AI takeover. Rather, it served as a caution about a digital future he wished to avoid.

    He stated, “For MGS2, I didn’t foresee AI, but rather a future I didn’t wish for. Sadly, we are moving in that direction.”

    He acknowledged that AI could simplify life, yet cautioned that it might diminish the creative elements of work, saying, “Games and art are no longer seen as special.”

    Indie Developers and Future Projects

    Kojima praised indie developers for pushing the limits of gaming with their inventive and engaging blockbuster titles, while he criticized big AAA studios for playing it safe with “things that are safe and greatly dull.”

    He also hinted at Physint, his exclusive PlayStation game that is still in its early conceptual phase, saying, “We’re considering collaborating with film professionals, not just for the cast but for the crew as well.”

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  • Microsoft Embraces Cloud Gaming and Cross-Platform for Xbox

    Microsoft Embraces Cloud Gaming and Cross-Platform for Xbox

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft denied allegations of a fixed 30% profit margin for Xbox, stating that it sets ambitious goals without specifying a margin.
    2. The average profit margins in the gaming sector are between 17% and 22%, while Xbox’s profit margins were only 12% in 2022.
    3. Significant layoffs and project cancellations have affected Xbox, including the cancellation of major titles like Perfect Dark and Everwild.
    4. Xbox sales dropped by 70% in November, falling behind competitors like Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Nintendo’s Switch 2.
    5. Microsoft is shifting focus to cloud gaming, cross-platform gaming, and the Xbox Game Pass subscription amidst financial challenges.

    Microsoft has refuted recent allegations that it established a rigid 30% profit margin for its Xbox gaming sector. The corporation stated that it sets ambitious goals, however, it did not disclose a specific profit margin number.

    Microsoft Responds to Allegations

    In a recent CNBC interview, Microsoft addressed the rumors and challenges that have emerged over the last year, including significant layoffs and project cancellations. The company’s response came after a Bloomberg report from October mentioned that CFO Amy Hood had outlined a 30% profit target under “accountability margins,” particularly affecting Xbox. Many insiders in the industry shared similar concerns, which seemed to be the main reason behind Microsoft’s cost-reduction efforts, including cutting various projects and reducing staff.

    Profit Margin Comparisons

    The mention of a 30% profit margin was notable, as it exceeds the average profit margins in the gaming sector, which typically range between 17% and 22%. Xbox’s own profit margins were recorded at 12% in 2022, according to previous documents.

    During the CNBC conversation, Microsoft clarified, “Although the company does set high objectives, the 30% profit margin target mentioned was inaccurate.” Xbox has been facing numerous challenges, with more than 9,000 employees impacted by several rounds of layoffs.

    Project Cancellations and Sales Decline

    In the aftermath of these layoffs, several major projects were canceled, such as The Initiative’s Perfect Dark reboot, Rare’s long-awaited Everwild, and ZeniMax Online’s sci-fi MMO Project Blackbird. Additionally, Xbox sales plummeted by 70% in November, placing the company significantly behind Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Nintendo’s Switch 2 in hardware sales.

    Last week, Xbox also revealed that it will not be offering the Xbox Wrapped feature this year due to budget limitations. Reports suggest that funds are being redirected towards the 25th anniversary celebration in 2026. This indicates that the company is indeed facing financial strains.

    Future Directions

    Despite these hurdles, Microsoft continues to focus on cloud gaming, cross-platform gaming, and the Xbox Game Pass subscription. The company is opting for a more inclusive approach by allowing access across various devices, including PCs, handhelds like the Rog Ally and Ally X, mobile devices, and even cars.

    As for Bloomberg, it remains uncertain whether the outlet will retract its story, revise its report, or provide additional insights on the issue.

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  • Vince Zampella, FPS Legend, Passes Away at 55

    Vince Zampella, FPS Legend, Passes Away at 55

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vince Zampella was a key figure in the gaming industry, co-founding Infinity Ward and creating Respawn Entertainment.
    2. He played a major role in the development of popular games like Call of Duty, Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi series.
    3. Zampella passed away in a car accident on December 22, 2025, at the age of 55, leaving behind three children.
    4. His contributions to gaming earned him deep respect and admiration from colleagues, as noted in tributes from the Battlefield team and EA.
    5. The accident occurred on the Angeles Crest Highway, involving a Ferrari, and raised discussions online about reckless driving and Zampella’s legacy.

    Vince Zampella was seen as a major force in the gaming world. He co-founded Infinity Ward and was instrumental in bringing the Call of Duty franchise to life. He later created Respawn Entertainment, where he oversaw the development of popular games like Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi series. Since 2021, Zampella had been shaping the direction of Battlefield, earning respect as a true creative leader.

    Tragic Loss

    Unfortunately, Vince Zampella passed away in a car accident in California on Sunday, December 22, 2025. He was only 55 and leaves behind three children. The Battlefield development team and Electronic Arts confirmed the sad news in statements released on Monday. In a heartfelt tribute shared on X, the Battlefield team celebrated Zampella’s visionary ideas, his trust in his teams, and his focus on enhancing player experiences. His kindness and integrity made a lasting mark on the Battlefield series.

    Industry Reaction

    EA expressed profound sorrow, calling Zampella’s passing an “unimaginable loss.” The company highlighted the immense impact he had on the gaming industry, not just as a developer but also as a friend, colleague, and leader in the field.

    According to officials, the accident took place around 12:45 p.m. on the Angeles Crest Highway and involved one vehicle, which is believed to be a Ferrari. This particular stretch of road is known for its steep gradients and sharp turns. For reasons still unclear, the car lost control, veered off the road, and crashed into a concrete barrier. There were two occupants in the vehicle. The passenger, who has not been named, was thrown from the car and later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. Zampella was trapped inside and died in the subsequent fire, as reported by authorities.

    Online Response

    A video shared on Instagram that day captured the scene shortly after the crash, sparking a variety of responses online. Many users on Reddit expressed their grief over Zampella’s death, honoring him as an “FPS legend” and celebrating his contributions to the gaming world. Conversely, some criticized what they perceived as reckless driving, pointing to the footage as proof that the vehicle was traveling at an excessive speed.

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  • Analyst: PS6 and Steam Machine Release Delays Due to Memory Costs

    Analyst: PS6 and Steam Machine Release Delays Due to Memory Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rising memory costs may lead Sony and Valve to reassess pricing or delay the launch of the PS6 and Steam Machine.
    2. Increased demand from the AI sector is reducing the availability of memory for consumers, causing price hikes in laptops and PCs.
    3. Valve may have secured LPDDR5 memory for the Steam Machine, but industry experts predict high prices for DRAM and storage to persist for several years.
    4. The PS6 is expected to launch in 2027 or 2028, influenced by rising GDDR7 VRAM costs and declining console sales.
    5. Manufacturers face pressures from declining sales and rising memory prices, potentially leading to postponed release dates for new consoles.

    As the cost of memory increases, the outlook for gaming hardware is becoming more and more unpredictable. This situation may compel Sony and Valve to reassess the prices for the upcoming PS6 and Steam Machine. Another option could be that the launch dates for these devices may be pushed back until prices stabilize. A recent article from Reuters cites an analyst who has made this concerning forecast.

    Impact of AI on Memory Market

    The piece by Zaheer Kachwala explains how the growing demand from the AI sector is influencing the memory market. With companies like Micron concentrating on business clients, there is a reduced amount of storage and memory accessible for regular consumers. Additionally, manufacturers of laptops and preassembled PCs have started to announce increases in their prices.

    Valve’s Strategy for Memory Supply

    Valve might have arranged to secure a stockpile of LPDDR5 memory ahead of the anticipated Steam Machine launch in early 2026. Nevertheless, some experts in the industry predict that the prices of DRAM and storage will not decrease for several years. This situation could force the company to either transfer these additional costs to gamers or to delay the release altogether.

    PS6 Launch Timeline

    The timing for the introduction of the PS6 is not as clear-cut, but many insiders expect it to arrive in 2027 or 2028. The rising costs of GDDR7 VRAM are putting pressure on the suggested retail prices of Nvidia RTX 50-series graphics cards and the next PlayStation console.

    Another challenge that both Valve and Sony face is the decline in console sales. Circana’s U.S. statistics for November 2025 indicated that hardware sales dipped by 27% when compared to the previous year. Due to tariffs and various economic hurdles, the Xbox Series X and PS5 have already seen price increases.

    Concerns for Manufacturers

    Both the warning signs related to retail performance and the escalating memory prices are factors that manufacturers must consider. The Reuters article quotes analyst Jacob Bourne from eMarketer, who expresses this concern. Bourne notes that, due to disappointing sales, “we could see console makers postpone their release dates.”

    Valve may still opt to move forward with the launch of its gaming system. One suggestion from the insider site Moore’s Law Is Dead is to provide a stripped-down version without memory and storage. This would keep the price of the Steam Machine reasonable, but would require gamers to finish the setup themselves. However, it seems quite unlikely that Sony would adopt a similar strategy for the PS6.

    Reuters, Valve YouTube

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  • FIFA Ends EA Partnership for Exclusive Netflix Gaming Deal

    FIFA Ends EA Partnership for Exclusive Netflix Gaming Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Netflix will launch an officially licensed FIFA football game in summer 2026, coinciding with the World Cup.
    2. The game will be available at no extra cost to Netflix subscribers and playable on smart TVs, streaming devices, and mobile phones.
    3. FIFA’s partnership with Netflix marks a shift after ending its long-term collaboration with EA Sports in 2022.
    4. The game aims to attract a broad audience with easy-to-use gameplay, focusing on quick matches for casual gamers.
    5. This partnership is a strategic move for both FIFA and Netflix to test the FIFA brand’s value in gaming and expand Netflix’s gaming offerings.

    Netflix is set to transform the FIFA World Cup 2026 into a gaming experience. The streaming service has revealed an officially licensed FIFA football game that will be available on its Netflix Games platform. This game, created by Delphi Interactive, is scheduled to launch in the summer of 2026, coinciding with the tournament taking place in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Instead of being a separate purchase, this title will be included in the existing Netflix Games library.

    Accessible Gameplay

    The upcoming game will be offered at no additional charge for Netflix subscribers and is built to function on smart TVs, streaming devices, and mobile phones. On televisions, players will utilize their smartphones as controllers, similar to other Netflix party games. There will also be a native version available for both iOS and Android platforms. Netflix and FIFA are promoting this project as an easy-to-use football simulation featuring quick matches that allow for both solo and online gaming, rather than a complex simulation specifically for hardcore console gamers.

    A New Era for FIFA

    For nearly 30 years, FIFA depended on EA Sports to produce its yearly football games, but that collaboration concluded in 2022 due to disputes over licensing fees and the future use of the FIFA name. EA retained the rights to its leagues, teams, and players, rebranding the series as EA Sports FC. Meanwhile, FIFA found the freedom to license its brand to others, and an exclusive agreement with Netflix allows FIFA to showcase its name to hundreds of millions of subscribers all at once, offering a simpler, TV-oriented game that aligns with the World Cup and FIFA’s goal to “reach billions” of fans.

    A Strategic Move

    This partnership represents FIFA’s first significant football simulation game since the end of its long-term connection with EA’s FIFA series, and it serves as a crucial test of how much value the standalone FIFA name still has in the gaming world. For Netflix, this marks another advancement in expanding its gaming offerings beyond just mobile tie-ins. This follows other projects like 007: First Light and its increasing collection of TV-playable games that leverage smartphones as controllers. The company aims to position the FIFA title as one of its flagship games in its endeavor to make gaming on Netflix as commonplace as watching a series.

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