Known for its acclaimed original programming, Netflix is now turning its attention to the world of video games. In a strategic move to diversify its offerings, the streaming giant aims to leverage the success of its existing content to engage users in immersive gaming experiences, reflecting the growing convergence of entertainment and interactive media.
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: The Netflix logo is displayed at Netflix's Los Angeles headquarters on October 07, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.
Expanding Mobile Gaming Portfolio
Netflix is strategically advancing its mobile gaming division, with upcoming plans to translate more of its original shows, including hits like Squid Game and Wednesday, into captivating mobile games. While Netflix has previously ventured into mobile gaming, Engadget reported that it continues to refine its position within the company's overall business strategy.
Currently, Netflix directs users to download and engage with games such as "Exploding Kittens: The Game" or "Ghost Detective" from the app store, allowing them to play within the platform. However, Netflix envisions a future where subscribers can directly access games on their smart TVs and computers, broadening the accessibility of gaming entertainment.
This significant push into gaming by the company comes on the heels of the recent launch of a dedicated controller app for iOS devices, enabling players to utilize their smartphones as gamepads when connected to a TV. This multifaceted approach underscores Netflix's commitment to delivering diverse and immersive entertainment experiences to its global audience.
Securing Licensing Agreements
Netflix is said to be exploring the possibility of securing licensing agreements with prominent players in the video game industry. Wall Street Journal reported that the objective behind this initiative is to augment its existing roster of in-house game development studios.
Netflix has previously acquired game developers such as Night School Studio, known for their work on Oxenfree, Spry Fox, creators of Cozy Grove, and Next Games, the studio responsible for the "Stranger Things" puzzle RPG known as "Puzzle Tales."
Among the high-profile titles rumored to be under discussion is the possibility of licensing the "Grand Theft Auto" franchise. Netflix has reportedly engaged in talks with Rockstar Games, the custodians of the GTA series, with a view to producing a game within the renowned franchise.
The nature of this potential project remains uncertain - it could either be an entirely new installment, albeit possibly of a smaller scale similar to a spin-off like "Chinatown Wars," or a streaming adaptation of an existing GTA title.
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Furthermore, Rock Paper Shotgun reported that these sources indicated that Netflix is actively taking steps to expand into the realm of high-end gaming experiences that can be streamed directly to televisions or personal computers.
Concurrently, the company is also exploring opportunities to adapt its original content, including popular shows like "Black Mirror" and blockbuster movies such as "Extraction," into interactive gaming experiences.
This multifaceted approach underscores Netflix's commitment to diversifying its entertainment offerings and potentially bridging the gap between gaming and streaming content.
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