For a long time, Netflix was the only video streaming service available. However, in 2021, the picture is a little different. While Netflix is still one of the top players in the scene, if not the biggest, the market is currently split between numerous options such as Disney+, Paramount+, and Apple TV.
Netflix has confirmed their expansion into gaming in a letter to investors (via The Verge), with mobile games as their initial target. When we say Netflix has been eyeing the gaming business for a while, we’re referring to the fact that they’ve dabbled in it before. Black Mirror: Bandersnatch is an example of this: it’s a “interactive” television that can be streamed like any other show, but you get to make decisions and determine how the plot unfolds, similar to Beyond: Two Souls. There are also two games based on Netflix’s Stranger Things series, the first of which is available on Android and iOS and the second of which is available on the Nintendo Switch. Those two games, on the other hand, were created by BonusXP, Inc, not Netflix.
This doesn’t signify anything definitive, and it doesn’t indicate when we’ll see the first Netflix games. However, this announcement comes just days after it was revealed that Netflix had hired Mike Verdu, a former EA and Oculus employee, as VP of game development. So, with actual gaming people on board, we’re anticipating something a little bit more than just new interactive programmes. Furthermore, these games will be included in your existing Netflix subscription at no further cost to you.
When Netflix’s in-house games are released, it will be fascinating to see how they turn out.
