Rugby league fans are rejoicing after NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo revealed the league is planning to release a video game later this year.
The Rugby League Live game was first released back in 2003 and quickly became a fan favourite. Rugby League Live 4 came out in 2017.
Speaking on the Hello Sport podcast, Abdo teased a release of a new game that he promised would be modern and up to the standard of gamers in 2025.
“I’ve got good news, there’s a new game in the works,” Abdo said.
“It’ll be multi-platform, it’ll be much more online and much more contemporary.
“It will be released this year.
“I love games and I’m a big believer (that) gamification is also a way of connecting with new fans. But also great for existing fans.
“It’s exciting for us because it’s another way for us to connect with fans out of the season (and) in between games. Just like fantasy football, just like tipping.”
Abdo hinted the new game could also be available to play on mobile devines via an app.
“We don’t want to stop there with just the PS (PlayStation) or Xbox platforms,” he said.
“We also want to find other ways in which we can connect with rugby league fans in a fun way.
“Rugby League Live, I play all the time with my kids. I’m excited for the new version.”
Hello Sport podcast co-host Eddy Simpson described it as “huge” news.
Co-host Tom Birmingham added: “This game slapped. Everyone loved it. Every rugby league fan wants another game.
“That is just music to our ears, I can’t tell you.”
The reaction came thick and fast from NRL fans, who said they couldn’t wait to play the game.
One fan commented on YouTube: “Huge news coming out of HSP today! Can’t believe he just confirmed a new rugby league game is coming this year. I shed a tear. What a day to be alive!”
A second said: “NEW RRL GAME LFG!!!!! i’m old school ARL 96 was peak gaming for me as a kid
A third said: “New Rugby League game finally”, while another added: “Rugby league live 5?!!!:
One person wrote on Reddit: “GTA6 and RLL in the same year?!?”
Another said: “Rugby league has never been more back than it is right now.”
A wary fan added: “If it turns out to be a phone game I’m gonna be pissed.”
The new game could be produced by Australian video game developer Big Ant Studios, who has produced games including AFL 23 and Cricket 24.
The NRL season got underway over the weekend in Las Vegas. The Canberra Raiders defeated the New Zealand Warriors 30-8 and Penrith beat Cronulla 28-22.
Round 1 continues on Thursday night when the Sydney Roosters play the Brisbane Broncos.
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