Netflix Games has announced its new title, 'FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition,' but the game is being met with a cold reception from users.

On the 5th, Netflix Games announced via its official website that 'FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition,' a soccer game available to all Netflix subscribers, is set to launch.

The game is designed to be played without complex controls or additional hardware, using the player's smartphone as a controller. Users simply open the Netflix Games tab on their TV, launch the game, and scan an on-screen QR code with their smartphone to sync. From there, players can pass and shoot using simple swipe gestures on their phone screen. Netflix Games explains that they lowered the barrier to entry to ensure the game is accessible even to beginners unfamiliar with video games or soccer.

However, the reaction on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) has been overwhelmingly negative. Criticism is particularly fierce regarding the graphics, which many feel are far below the standard expected of a game in 2026. There is also growing frustration directed at FIFA. Some critics have pointed to the decision to grant the FIFA license to a game that lacks the polish of EA's past 'FIFA' series as a sign that the organization is "only interested in chasing profits."

Despite the widespread negative sentiment, 'FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition' is scheduled for official release on the 11th (local time). It will initially launch in 20 countries, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Australia, and Brazil, with plans to expand to more regions gradually. Ahead of the official launch, a limited pre-release test began in Brazil on the 5th.