Rumours of Netflix video games have been swirling over the last few months. But it’s unclear exactly what that will look like and what it would mean for subscribers. Would it all slot neatly into the company’s existing apps? What type of games would they be – mobile or console? Would it tack onto your existing subscription? Perhaps they’ll offer a cloud gaming service, like Google Stadia. Let’s take a look at what we know so far about Netflix adding games…
Is Netflix adding games?
In short, yes. Netflix will be adding video games over the course of the next year. They confirmed in July they are looking to expand into video games. However, they described themselves as being “in the early stages” of adding games so specific details about what will involve going forward are somewhat scarce at the moment.
But what’s behind Netflix’s decision to branch out into gaming? Greg Peters, Netflix chief operating officer and chief product officer, said in July that “We think we can deliver more entertainment value through [games].” The company has also appointed Mike Verdu (a former Electronic Arts and Facebook executive) to lead the way with their gaming efforts. His new role is vice president of game development.
What games is Netflix adding?
Now we know the answer to the question “is Netflix adding video games?”, we can move onto the next conundrum. What video games is Netflix adding?
First off, they confirmed in their Q2 earnings report that they’re looking to build on their “earlier efforts around interactivity (eg, Black Mirror Bandersnatch) and our Stranger Things games.” They added: “We view gaming as another new content category for us, similar to our expansion into original films, animation and unscripted TV.” Netflix also confirmed their initial gaming efforts will be for mobile: “Initially, we’ll be primarily focused on games for mobile devices.” So, there we have it. Netflix’s efforts will be directed towards mobile games for now.
In fact, Netflix is already testing mobile games on the service in certain countries. In August, the company released two mobile games in Poland – Stranger Things: 1984 and Stranger Things 3. They were for Android-only. In September, TechCrunch reported that Netflix added three more games, this time available in Italy and Spain as well as Poland. The games – called Shooting Hoops, Teeter Up, and Card Blast – were super casual and clearly designed with broad appeal in mind. They’re available to Netflix subscribers only, and are featured under a new ‘Games’ tab according to TechCrunch. When a user selects them, they are redirected to Google Play Store.
Release date
With all that being said, you probably want to know a Netflix video games release date. A Bloomberg report in July said Netflix would be adding games “in the next year”. And as mentioned, the company has already started releasing games in some countries. That means they’re likely taking a phased approach to their video game expansion, so you can expect games to be added to the service gradually rather than all at once on a fixed release date.
Will Netflix games be included with membership?
Most people will be wondering if they’ll have to pay extra for Netflix video games. The answer is no, you won’t. Netflix confirmed in their Q2 earnings report: “Games will be included in members’ Netflix subscription at no additional cost similar to films and series.”
Do you think Netflix’s video game expansion is a good idea? Let us know in the comment section below, and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
