Netflix is set to redefine digital football for millions of fans in Kenya and across the globe, announcing it will exclusively launch a new FIFA football simulation game in the summer of 2026. The move marks a seismic shift in the gaming world, placing one of its most popular franchises onto a subscription streaming service.

This is more than just a new game; it's the dawn of a new era. The announcement signals the first major FIFA-branded simulation title since the world football governing body ended its nearly 30-year partnership with developer EA Sports in 2022 over licensing disputes. That lucrative deal was reportedly severed after FIFA requested a substantial increase in licensing fees.

A New Playbook for Gamers

The upcoming game, developed by Los Angeles-based studio Delphi Interactive, is strategically timed to coincide with the FIFA World Cup 2026. For Kenyan football enthusiasts, this means a premier football game will be available as part of a standard Netflix subscription, which starts from as low as KES 200 for a mobile plan. This model presents a stark contrast to the traditional cost of console games, which can often retail for between KES 6,000 and KES 9,000.

The game is designed for accessibility, a core part of Netflix's expanding push into the gaming market. According to the announcement, key features will include:

• Playable on mobile devices, select smart TVs, and computers.
• Smartphones can be used as controllers, removing the need for expensive hardware.
• Both solo and online multiplayer modes will be available.

This approach aligns with Kenya's mobile-first digital landscape, where smartphone gaming dominates the rapidly growing market.

Netflix's Big Bet on Gaming

While details on the game's official title and specific features remain under wraps until closer to the 2026 launch, the strategy is clear. Netflix aims to leverage major global cultural events like the World Cup to attract and retain subscribers by offering more than just films and series. "The FIFA World Cup is going to be the cultural event of 2026, and now fans will be able to celebrate their fandom by bringing the game right into their living rooms," noted Alain Tascan, president of games at Netflix.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the partnership as "a great historic step for FIFA," emphasizing the goal to reach billions of football fans globally. For a football-loving nation like Kenya, this move could fundamentally change how the next generation accesses and enjoys the beautiful game, shifting it from a costly purchase to an affordable monthly subscription.