A NEW rugby league video game is about to be launched – and there’s a Warrington-born star on the cover.

The long-awaited return of rugby league to games consoles has finally been confirmed with “Rugby League 26” to be launched next month.

The game – the first dedicated to the sport since Rugby League Live 4 launched back in 2017 – will be released on July 17 with Warrington Wolves and the rest of Super League and the NRL available as playable teams.

The Women’s Super League will also be included in the game with former Cardinal Newman High School pupil Jodie Cunningham starring on the cover alongside Wigan Warriors forward Junior Nsemba.

Jodie Cunningham on the cover of the new game alongside Junior NsembaJodie Cunningham on the cover of the new game alongside Junior Nsemba (Image: Contributed) The game will be available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles as well as PlayStations 4 and 5 and on PCs via Steam, with Xbox and PlayStation pre-orders now available.

Rugby League 26 introduces Pro Team mode, modern graphics, realistic gameplay mechanics, and fully licensed teams, competitions, and stadiums from across the entire rugby league world.

“Rugby League deserves a world-class video game, and Rugby League 26 delivers exactly that,” RL Commercial managing director Rhodri Jones said.

“We're excited to see our Super League and Women’s Super League clubs and players represented in such detail and realism, competing on the same level as the best clubs and stars of the Rugby League world ahead of this autumn’s Ashes series.”

The game is being developed by Big Ant Studios, whose CEO Ross Symons added: “Every part of Rugby League 26 is driven by authenticity and depth.

“From the expanded Career Mode to the Pro Team feature and advanced customisation tools, this game marks a new standard for Rugby League in interactive entertainment.”