The free-to-play football simulator UFL has been named the official game for the upcoming Games of the Future 2025. This major international event will take place from December 18 to 23 in Abu Dhabi. The announcement marks a significant step for the game’s esports ambitions.
Games of the Future uniquely blends physical sports with competitive esports. The Phygital Football tournament will now be played on the UFL platform for the first time. This decision highlights the game’s growing reputation in the digital sports arena.
UFL’s Role in the $5 Million Phygital Tournament
The Games of the Future 2025 will feature 11 different disciplines. According to Reuters, the total prize pool for the event is a substantial $5,000,000. Phygital Football is a core discipline that combines real-world athleticism with digital gameplay.
Top phygital football clubs from across the globe will compete. They will face off in both physical matches and digital battles within UFL. This integration tests a new generation of athletes in a hybrid sporting environment.
Opening the Ecosystem for Global Competition
This partnership is a breakthrough for UFL’s developer, Strikerz Inc. It opens the game’s ecosystem for players, clubs, and federations to host their own tournaments. The free-to-play model is central to this strategy, aiming for maximum accessibility.
The move signals a long-term vision for UFL within competitive gaming. It positions the title not just as a game, but as a platform for global football competition. This could reshape how football esports is organized and consumed by fans.
The selection of UFL for the Games of the Future 2025 solidifies its position as a serious contender in the football simulation genre. This high-profile partnership provides a global stage to showcase its unique free-to-play model. The upcoming event will be a critical test for the UFL platform and its competitive future.
Info at your fingertips
What is the Games of the Future?
The Games of the Future is an annual international event that combines physical sports and esports. It features various ‘phygital’ disciplines where athletes compete in both real and digital arenas. The 2025 edition is being held in Abu Dhabi.
On which platforms is UFL available?
UFL is currently available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S with full cross-play support. The PC version entered Early Access recently, with a full release planned for late 2025.
What is Phygital Football?
Phygital Football is a competition format where clubs compete in both physical football matches and digital matches within a video game. It tests teams on their athletic skill and their strategic digital gameplay abilities simultaneously.
How does this benefit UFL players?
This official partnership validates UFL as a competitive esports platform. It opens opportunities for players to potentially compete in major international tournaments. The game’s ecosystem is now more deeply connected to the global sports scene.
Is UFL really free to play?
Yes, UFL is a completely free-to-play football video game. The developers have confirmed there are no costs for downloading the game or for organizing tournaments within its ecosystem.
Trusted Sources
Reuters, Associated Press
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