Netflix is primarily known for films and TV shows, much like how Game Pass is recognized for video games. It’s straightforward: I don’t expect to read eBooks through my Spotify subscription, just as I wouldn’t anticipate Hello Fresh to send out movies. This is why it’s easy to overlook that Netflix already offers a substantial collection of games—96 to be exact—and they’ve just announced an additional 80 are in development.
Netflix recently disclosed in an earnings call that they are working on over 80 new games, with plans to release one per month for the foreseeable future. The big question is: will these be games we actually want to play?
The main confusion revolves around how to play these games. Many assume they’d play directly through Netflix in a laggy stream on a TV app not designed for gaming. However, these are mobile games. You find them in the Netflix app, but they install directly from the Google Play Store or the iOS App Store and run like any other mobile game. So, yes, you can play games like Oxenfree II, Into the Breach, and Moonlighter on your tablet.
While Netflix’s current collection undeniably includes some unimpressive titles, it also boasts some highly acclaimed games. Titles like GTA Vice City and San Andreas, Hades, Dead Cells, Kentucky Route Zero, World of Goo, The Case of the Golden Idol, and Oxenfree are part of the roster. Although the GTA games might not be the best versions, they are free with a Netflix subscription.
During the earnings call, Netflix Co-CEO Gregory K. Peters noted that while they have exceeded some internal targets with their games, the engagement and impact on their overall business are still minimal. He mentioned that the investment in games is relatively small compared to their overall content spend. The goal is to grow engagement to a point where it significantly impacts their business.
Many of the 80 games in development are tie-in projects designed to accompany upcoming series. Netflix is focusing on “interactive narrative games,” which are easier to build. These games will be part of a feature called Netflix Stories, which will likely receive more promotion within the app, directing viewers from shows to their related games.
Netflix is making these decisions based on user feedback. However, the company’s poor communication about offering great games with no ads and no extra cost seems like a missed opportunity. Casual viewers are more likely to play a Stranger Things match-3 game than realize they could play Dead Cells on their phones.
Though Netflix has funded some excellent indie games over the past few years, they seem to be changing direction. The new monthly releases will include tie-ins with series like Emily in Paris and Selling Sunset. While this might not thrill hardcore gamers, it’s a great opportunity for casual players and indie developers. Indie developers can work on these tie-in projects and use the income to pursue their passion projects.
Despite this shift, it’s still a fantastic opportunity for indie developers to secure funding and create more ambitious projects. And if nothing else, remember that you don’t need to pay $25 for GTA San Andreas Definitive Edition on your tablet if you use the link within your Netflix app. (Not all games are available on Android, though.)
In summary, Netflix’s venture into gaming is evolving. The current selection includes some top-tier titles, but the focus appears to be shifting towards more accessible, casual games tied to popular Netflix shows. Whether this will have a significant impact on their business remains to be seen, but it certainly opens new opportunities for indie developers and casual gamers alike.
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