FIFA to release FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition on Netflix Games June 11

FIFA will release a new football video game, FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition, on Netflix Games on June 11. The title will be included at no extra cost for Netflix subscribers as part of the governing body’s effort to expand digital fan engagement. The launch marks FIFA’s first major gaming move since ending its long-running partnership with EA Sports and is timed to coincide with the start of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Developed with Netflix Games and Delphi Interactive, the game is presented as an accessible football simulation built around the expanded 48-team tournament format. Players will be able to select from all qualified national teams and compete across matches staged in 16 tournament stadiums, with more than 1,200 players represented. FIFA said the design favors quick entry into World Cup fixtures, minimizing complex setup so both casual and core fans can start playing quickly.

Access will be exclusive to Netflix members, aligning with the company’s broader push to add interactive experiences alongside films and series. Officials said the partnership aims to meet fans where they already spend time and to lower barriers to entry by removing an additional purchase price.

Controls are built for ease of use. Users can connect smartphones as controllers to a television by scanning a QR code, and up to four people can play in the same session. FIFA emphasized local multiplayer support and quick setup intended for living-room play.

The timing underscores FIFA’s plan to build momentum into this summer’s tournament. By debuting on June 11, the organization is coupling the in-game tournament journey with the real-world kickoff, aiming to amplify interest as teams arrive and storylines take shape across North America.

Gameplay, access and features

Smartphone controller and local play

FIFA said the smartphone-as-controller format removes the need for additional hardware and helps onboard new players. QR-based pairing is designed to simplify access, while four-player support enables small-group competition without complex configuration.

Teams, stadiums and player pool

The launch edition includes all 48 national teams competing in 2026 and fixtures set across the tournament’s 16 venues. The player pool exceeds 1,200 athletes, providing recognizable squads for users steering their country runs through the bracket.

Strategy shift after EA partnership

Multi-partner ecosystem

FIFA framed the Netflix release as part of a broader shift away from a single-licensing model. The governing body said it is moving to a multi-partner ecosystem to reach fans across different platforms and content types, with this title serving as the first step in that plan.

Roadmap for future updates

Officials described FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition as the starting point of a longer-term initiative. Additional features and broader platform support are planned beyond the initial release, with more details to be communicated as the project evolves.

FIFA is expected to outline further specifics on post-launch features and distribution as June 11 approaches and the World Cup buildup intensifies.