FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition is a football (soccer) video game developed by Delphi Interactive and available exclusively to Netflix subscribers. It was designed to coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was launched on the very day the tournament kicked off. The game aims to bring the official competition to life through an accessible experience that’s easy to pick up and designed for playing with family or friends. And that’s not all: the title also marks the return of the FIFA brand to the world of video games following the end of its historic partnership with EA Sports.
The game features all 48 teams that have qualified for the tournament, more than 1,200 official players, and the 16 stadiums hosting the competition across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Unlike traditional console simulation games, this title is played directly on a compatible TV via Netflix Games. No special accessories are required. The smartphone serves as a controller via a QR code connection system, and up to four players can compete on the same screen.
Why Should I Download FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition?
FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition is the famous return of the FIFA license, years after it left Electronic Arts. The game allows you to choose among the 48 national teams that have qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Matches take place in the tournament's official stadiums and feature more than 1,200 licensed players. The developer has designed the controls to be simple and intuitive so that players of all skill levels can quickly get the hang of the game.
FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition focuses on local multiplayer and shared gameplay. In fact, up to four people can play at the same time on the same TV, with each player using their own smartphone as a controller. This makes it easy to organize quick matches with friends or family.
In short, the game prioritizes an accessible and dynamic experience. Players can relive the atmosphere of the World Cup through official matches while enjoying gameplay designed for instant entertainment. Netflix and FIFA also plan to add new features over time to gradually expand the game’s content.
As explained earlier, this game is played directly from Netflix on a compatible TV. No console download or special hardware is required. Simply launch the game from the Netflix app (through the Gaming menu), then connect your smartphone to the screen by scanning a QR code displayed on the screen. Your phone will then function as a game controller.
Is FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition Free?
This game is included in the Netflix subscription and available at no extra cost to subscribers. Once you've signed in to your Netflix account on a compatible TV, you can launch the game and enjoy all its features. No additional fees have been announced for this launch edition.
What Operating Systems Are Compatible with FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition?
FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition works on TVs compatible with Netflix Games (through the Netflix app) and requires a smartphone to serve as a controller. The game is therefore indirectly compatible with Android and iOS devices, provided they can run the Netflix app and connect to a supported TV. No native versions for Windows, macOS, Linux, or game consoles have been announced at this time.
What Are the Alternatives to FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition?
While FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition focuses on accessibility and multiplayer gaming via Netflix, other titles offer different ways to enjoy soccer. Here are three alternatives to check out.
EA Sports FC 26 is the soccer simulation game developed by Electronic Arts that succeeded the FIFA franchise. The game focuses on advanced realism through more natural movements, smarter goalkeepers, and numerous modes, including Ultimate Team and Career. It is a paid title offering a wealth of content with hundreds of licensed clubs, stadiums, and competitions. It is available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. It’s an excellent alternative for players looking for an experience closer to traditional football simulations.
eFootball free-to-play is a football game developed by Konami and available for free on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Android, and iOS. As the successor to the PES series, it features realistic matches, a competitive online mode, and the ability to build your own team with famous players using a card system. The game is regularly updated and also offers numerous licensed clubs and stadiums.
Finally, REMATCH takes a much more arcade-style and multiplayer-focused approach. Developed by the French studio Sloclap, this online game allows each participant to control a single player within teams of 3 to 5 members. Matches take place in enclosed arenas and emphasize fast-paced action, cooperation, and technical skills. While it is a paid game, it is also accessible via Game Pass, and playable on Windows, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series.
