Netflix has already dipped its toes into video gaming before with the introduction of “Netflix Games” as part of the streaming service. Netflix Games focuses heavily around mobile games as a part of the platform, introducing the ability to stream a small selection of games through the Netflix app. Netflix’s game lineup has occasionally featured some high-profile titles among its roster of games, including hit indie games likeMoonlighterandOxenfreeandeven formerly included theGTA Trilogy. However, Netflix may now be looking to increase its video gaming presence.
Netflix May Be “Ramping Up” Its Video Games Division
As reported by Insider Gaming, a recent earnings call from Netflix suggests that the company may be planning to push its video games division more. Netflix co-CEO and President Gregory K. Peters discussed plans for Netflix to “ramp” its investment in Netflix Gaming, suggesting that the games division has been a positive factor for the platform. Peters also citedNetflix’s “small investment” in video gamesas a factor in the decision, compared to Netflix’s other content offerings. Peters suggested that improving the company’s video game offerings will also push user retention within the platform, giving fans more things to do within Netflix.
The potential push for Netflix Games' growth comes as Netflix has looked to provide plenty of licensed tie-in experiences for fans of Netflix series. Netflix Games features several licensed games based on some of its most popular franchises, including mobile games forStranger Things,Squid Game, andThe Queen’s Gambitamong others. Netflix has also championed several video game adaptations on the platform, most recently announcinga live-actionAssassin’s Creedseries. The statement from Netflix did not provide any specific details on its future plans for Netflix Gaming.
Netflix putting the focus on the company’s gaming division follows several major changes within Netflix Gaming in recent months. March saw the departure of Netflix Games VP Mike Verdu, who was credited as a major player in Netflix’s foray into gaming, while former Ubisoft and EA executiveAlain Tascan was hired as Netflix Games' new presidentlast year. Netflix also saw several games leave the platform in July, including popular games likeHadesandMonument Valley. Netflix’s new initiative into video games could look to be a game-changer for the beloved streaming platform.
