Electronic Arts’ (EA) split from Fifa has culminated in the release of Fifa World Cup: Launch Edition, the first official World Cup video game developed without EA’s involvement. Released on Netflix’s gaming platform in mid-2026, the title marks Fifa’s attempt to maintain a licensed football game following the controversial end of its more than three-decade partnership with EA.

The decision to part ways was driven primarily by EA’s dissatisfaction with the escalating license fees, reportedly exceeding $1 billion per World Cup cycle. This unprecedented separation posed risks for both parties: EA relinquished one of its most profitable franchises, while Fifa aimed to establish a new gaming presence under separate development. Fifa president Gianni Infantino expressed confidence in the new direction, stating that the official Fifa-branded game would be the definitive option for football fans and gamers. Early reviews suggest this optimism may have been misplaced.

Fifa World Cup: Launch Edition is available on mobile devices via Netflix, utilizing players’ phones as controllers. However, the title has been criticized heavily for its gameplay, graphics, and presentation. Reviewers point to numerous issues, including subpar artificial intelligence—most notably among goalkeepers—and repetitive, inaccurate commentary delivered by Clive Tyldesley, who previously provided commentary for EA’s Fifa titles. The commentary frequently misinterprets in-game events, sometimes describing clearly active plays as passive or misstating match situations.

The game’s mechanics also draw criticism. Observers note inconsistencies in player animations, such as players performing incorrect celebrations, and questionable gameplay balance—for example, scoring from greater distances is easier than from closer range. Graphically, the best-rendered character is Fifa president Gianni Infantino himself, an unusual choice that has drawn attention.

It is worth noting that the Fifa World Cup: Launch Edition was developed rapidly, reportedly within six months, and targeted at a younger, mobile-first audience. The developers have incorporated nostalgic elements, including theme songs from earlier Fifa games (Fifa 98 and Fifa 99), but these features have not redeemed the overall experience.

Meanwhile, EA’s successor franchise, EA Sports FC, has continued to thrive. Following the split, EA redirected funds previously allocated to Fifa licensing into new partnerships, including La Liga sponsorship and collaborations with major brands such as Nike. Maintaining agreements with thousands of athletes and clubs worldwide, EA Sports FC’s 2026 edition remained the best-selling video game in Europe last year. A significant revenue driver remains the Ultimate Team mode, a virtual economy contributing about 20% of EA’s approximately $7.5 billion in annual revenue.

Critics of Fifa World Cup: Launch Edition argue that its unrealistic gameplay outcomes stand in stark contrast to traditional football expectations. In one noted example, an 8-1 result in favor of England in a World Cup final and improbable high-scoring victories in knockout stages point to a lack of competitive balance. For football enthusiasts accustomed to the EA series’ depth and polish, Fifa’s debut title without its former partner falls short, raising questions about the future viability of Fifa-licensed football games in the competitive gaming market.