NRL Chief Andrew Abdo Announces Launch of New Rugby League Video Game Coming This Year

The first rugby league video game since 2017 is set to hit the shelves later this year.

Fans may recall the early days of rugby league gaming on platforms like PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, with the inaugural release appearing in 2003.

Rugby League has seen releases every few years since then, but there’s been a notable absence in the gaming world for almost a decade now.

The most recent installment was the Rugby League Live 4 World Cup Edition in 2017, which represented a significant leap in quality compared to its predecessors.

If this trend continues, supporters can look forward to a richly detailed gaming experience in 2025.

While sports like the NBA, NFL, and soccer launch their games annually, NRL executives are hopeful that fan enthusiasm will fuel expansion in this niche market.

However, a primary concern for both the game and the developers is the relatively small market share rugby league commands on both a national and international scale.

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Despite these challenges, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo has confirmed that a new game is in development, with the expected launch set for early October in partnership with Big Ant Studios.

“I’ve got some exciting news; a new game is in development,” Abdo shared during his appearance on the Hello Sport podcast.

“I’m a fan of gaming, and I genuinely believe that gamification can help connect with new audiences while also engaging existing fans.

“I play Rugby League Live regularly with my kids, and I can’t wait for the new version.”

Australian developer Big Ant Studios is also responsible for titles like AFL 23 and Cricket 24.