Konami Announces eFootball Kick-Off! as Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive
Konami is continuing the evolution of its football simulation series with a new installment: eFootball Kick-Off! However, this release marks a significant departure for the franchise. We see the first new title in the series that will be exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2, slated for release in Summer 2026 – coinciding with the FIFA World Cup in North America.
This marks the first time an eFootball title will appear on a Nintendo console. Konami promises an accessible football experience designed to be enjoyed anywhere, anytime, both solo and with friends online or offline. The game will feature 48 national teams and a variety of game modes.
A core component of eFootball Kick-Off! is the “World Tour” mode, which focuses on building and managing a club team. Players will compete in global tournaments, earning new players through victories. In-game currency can also be used to acquire legendary players, enhancing team strength for the Fall update.
The “International Cup” competition, held every four years, will allow players to take control of a national team. This feature, however, is planned as downloadable content (DLC) released after the initial game launch.
For newcomers, the game will include beginner-friendly modes designed to be entertaining. A 6v6 mode with numerous scoring opportunities is highlighted, alongside a ranking system to evaluate player performance.
The eFootball series emerged as Konami’s response to EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA), following the end of the Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) franchise. While the annual head-to-head competition seen in the PES vs. FIFA era may not be as rigidly defined now, Konami continues to develop the eFootball series.
The decision to release eFootball Kick-Off! exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 is noteworthy. Recent reports suggest Nintendo is encouraging developers to prioritize releases on the Switch instead of the Switch 2, potentially due to ongoing supply chain considerations or strategic platform positioning. However, EA Sports has confirmed that its own sports titles, EA SPORTS FC 26 and Madden NFL, are being specifically built for the Switch 2, indicating a commitment to the new hardware. This suggests Konami is taking a different approach, potentially aiming for a broader, more casual audience on the Nintendo platform.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to launch in 2025, and several other titles have been announced for the platform, including Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, Apex Legends™, and Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted. The console is also expected to receive updated versions of existing franchises like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment and FINAL FANTASY TACTICS – The Ivalice Chronicles.
Konami’s move to focus on accessibility with eFootball Kick-Off! aligns with Nintendo’s broader strategy of appealing to a wide range of players. The emphasis on both online and offline multiplayer, coupled with the inclusion of national teams and various game modes, suggests Konami is aiming to create a versatile football experience that caters to different playstyles and preferences.
