FIFA launches World Cup video game exclusively on Netflix Games
FIFA has shifted FIFA+ gaming distribution onto Netflix by launching a free-to-play World Cup title on Netflix Games timed to the opening day of the 2026 tournament.
FIFA and Netflix Games have launched FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition exclusively on Netflix, positioning the title as a mass-access companion product tied directly to the FIFA World Cup 2026.The release is designed to widen top-of-funnel engagement during the tournament window, using Netflix’s global subscriber base as distribution while giving FIFA a new route into younger and more casual audiences beyond traditional console gaming.FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition will be available from June 11, the opening day of the 2026 tournament, and is included for Netflix members at no additional cost.The game has been developed and published by Delphi Interactive and is built around a simplified simulation format intended to reduce the learning curve and maximise group play.Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, said: “FIFA is very excited to team up with Netflix Games and Delphi Interactive ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. "This major collaboration is a key milestone in FIFA’s commitment to innovation in the football gaming space, which aspires to reach billions of football fans of all ages everywhere in the world and will be redefining the pure notion of simulation games. "Our reimagined game truly marks the beginning of a new era of digital football. It will be available for free to Netflix members and is a great historic step for FIFA.”The core user experience is built around phone-as-controller play, with fans launching the game on a smart TV and connecting by scanning a QR code, turning the TV into the main screen while keeping interaction on mobile.The product supports up to four players, leaning into living-room and watch-party behaviour that aligns with how major tournaments are increasingly consumed.Content depth is anchored to the real event footprint. The game includes all 48 participating teams, all 16 tournament stadiums and a player pool of more than 1,200, giving FIFA a licensed environment for national teams and tournament branding.Alain Tascan, president of games at Netflix, said: “The FIFA World Cup is going to be the cultural event of 2026, and now fans will be able to celebrate their fandom by bringing the game right into their living rooms. We want to bring football back to its roots with something everyone can play with just the touch of a button.”The launch also reinforces FIFA’s broader strategy shift from a single flagship console partner towards a portfolio approach across platforms, formats and audiences, with FIFA positioning this release as a starting point that will evolve with updates over time.