Refactor Games, the studio behind the Netflix game FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition, has made the difficult decision to lay off 85% of its employees. This decision has affected approximately 80 individuals, as reported by Inside Gaming.
Reasons Behind the Layoffs
Sources indicate that the layoffs are connected to funding being withdrawn by Delphi Interactive, the game's developer and publisher. One employee stated, “After launching FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition for Netflix Games, the parent company unfortunately pulled funding, leading to the dismissal of the entire team, myself included,” as quoted by Game Industry.
Closure of Refactor Games Studio
A former employee of Refactor mentioned that the studio not only faced layoffs but was forced to close its doors entirely due to the loss of financial support. “Delphi just shut down Refactor right after we released the FIFA World Cup game for Netflix. The entire studio was laid off today, so if anyone is looking for talent, I can connect you with some amazing individuals,” they shared on LinkedIn.
History of Refactor Games
Prior to its closure, Refactor released its first title, Football Simulator, which had an early access launch in 2022. The studio comprised several former developers from EA Sports, 2K Sports, and OneTeam Partners. Following this, they collaborated with Delphi to develop FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition, which was exclusive to Netflix and launched in June 2026.
Reception of FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition
Despite Netflix promoting FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition as a top-tier game, it received criticism from reviewers regarding its controls, graphics, and player AI. This game represents an official collaboration between Netflix and FIFA, arriving in conjunction with the 2026 World Cup tournament. “In FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition, your TV or computer becomes the stadium, and your phone serves as the game controller. Netflix members can launch the game directly via Netflix Games and use their mobile devices to connect and play. Up to four players can compete together, making it easy to enjoy the tournament with friends and family from the comfort of home,” FIFA explained.
Source: https://inet.detik.com/games-news/d-8604787/developer-game-netflix-fifa-world-cup-phk-85-karyawannya
