- By Prateek Levi
- Sun, 07 Jun 2026 04:36 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
As excitement builds around the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA is looking beyond the football pitch and into gaming. The organisation has teamed up with Netflix to launch FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition, a new football title that will be available exclusively through Netflix Games when the tournament kicks off on June 11.
The game is being positioned as an easy-to-pick-up football experience rather than a deep simulation, making it accessible to both casual players and dedicated football fans. Netflix subscribers will be able to play it at no additional cost.
One of the biggest highlights is that players won't be limited when choosing teams. FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition will feature all 48 nations taking part in the expanded World Cup tournament, alongside all 16 official stadiums. FIFA says the game will also include more than 1,200 players, allowing fans to recreate tournament matchups or lead their favourite country through the competition.
Instead of relying on traditional gaming hardware, the title uses a smartphone-based control system. Players can launch the game on a compatible smart TV and simply scan a QR code with their phone. Once connected, the phone becomes the controller, handling everything from passing and shooting to player movement.
The setup appears aimed at reducing barriers for players who may not own a console or dedicated gaming accessories. FIFA says the focus at launch is on getting people into matches quickly without having to learn complicated controls.
The game will also support local multiplayer, with up to four people able to play together on the same screen. That could make it a popular option for families and groups of friends following the tournament.
Though the first iteration is based on simplicity, FIFA itself has made it clear that more additions and improvements to the game will follow shortly after its release. FIFA has called the release just a beginning, stating that it will be constantly improving it over time.
This move by FIFA can be seen as one of the steps in its plans for boosting its digital platform before the World Cup. Through its collaboration with Netflix Games, FIFA aims to offer fans another avenue through which they can participate in the World Cup experience.