Cristiano Ronaldo launches free-to-play football game UFL to rival EA FC as impressive gameplay footage emerges

It's finally here. A brand new football simulation is attempting to compete with the likes of EAFC and eFootball – and gameplay footage has dropped after its official release on June 7.

UFL, a game developed and published by Strikerz Inc, has branded itself as a free-to-play experience where the online matchmaking will ensure that players will only go up against those of a similar skill level.

IGN report that 'fair to play' online divisions will be linked by promotions, and seasons will take place over a full year. Then, at the end of that year, a single player will be crowned UFL champion.

Strikerz Inc have included offline play, 2v2 and 3v3 matches in their new title along with the much-anticipated online aspect of the game, as highlighted by a number of Twitch streamers in recent hours.

In fact, five-time Ballon d'Or winner and UFC investor Cristiano Ronaldo posted a trailer on Friday morning with the caption: "The @UFLgame Open Beta starts today. Try it on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S! For free! June 7-9."

A number of content creators got to play the game on Thursday evening, including popular Twitch streamer @NickRTFM, who posted videos [as seen below] from his stream on X, formerly Twitter.

The company made a huge statement in 2022 when they made former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo its cover star.

In fact, the 39-year-old is part of a group of investors that committed to spending more than $40 million into developing the new title.

According to a press release, Ronaldo has been heavily involved in shaping UFL’s development to set a new standard for immersive football gaming.

The First SIUUU on UFL pic.twitter.com/EZ9d7HMpu4

— Nick (@NickRTFM) June 6, 2024

starting to cook on UFL pic.twitter.com/hpRZ5ig1aH

— Nick (@NickRTFM) June 6, 2024

Speaking about his new partnership with UFL, Ronaldo said: “I’m thrilled to be a part of this project as UFL can become the new breed in football gaming.”

Eugene Nashilov, who is the CEO of Strikerz Inc., opened up on bringing arguably the most well-known footballer of all time on board.

“Having Cristiano Ronaldo join us as a partner and investor is a significant step forward and an endorsement of our vision to create the leading game for football fans in the world," he said.

"UFL is committed to innovation, technology and entertainment and we see significant potential to do things differently in the gaming industry.

"This is an ambition shared by Cristiano and we are excited to be working together, while continuing to engage with future investors, to create a game that fills a gap in the football gaming market by unifying a rich gaming experience with continuous progress and a fair approach.”