Netflix Games Is Launching On Phones Today
Suddenly, taking over our screens with shows and movies isn't enough for Netflix. After experimenting with new ideas thanks to the likes of Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, the streaming giant has officially entered the world of gaming. But, should Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony really be quaking in their pixelated boots?
We'll be honest, we were shocked to learn Netflix was trying to move into gaming. It makes a lot of sense though. IPs like Stranger Things, The Haunting of Hill House, and Squid Game have seen the service dominate our lives. While some of these are already games, it's easy to imagine the rest cashing in on our button-mashing obsession.
When Is Netflix Games Launching?
The good news is, you don't have to wait at all to see what Netflix Games has to offer. After testing in limited European territories, Netflix Games has officially launched on mobile. There's (obviously) a catch, with the added perk only being available on Android. An iOS version is planned for the near future.
The official announcement confirms Netflix Games is launching with five free-to-play titles. On the starting lineup are BonusXP's Stranger Things: 1984 and Stranger Things 3: The Game, as well as Frosty Pop's Shooting Hoops and Teeter Up, with Amuzo & Rogue Games' Card Blast bringing up the rear. None of these are exactly a mobile version of BioShock or Hades, but still, it's a start.
Hyping its latest venture, Netflix added: "Whether you’re craving a casual game you can start from scratch or an immersive experience that lets you dig deeper into your favourite stories, we want to begin to build a library of games that offers something for everyone. We’re in the early days of creating a great gaming experience, and we’re excited to take you on this journey with us."
What Else Do We Know About Netflix Games?
Firstly, Netflix Games is free. In a bizarre move, Netflix isn't taking the route that Nintendo did when it hiked its online subscription for the N64 expansion. Instead, all Netflix Games titles are included in your monthly subscription.
To access the Netflix Games, head to the new "Games" tab on the Android app. Netflix warns that games won't be available on Kids profiles - so it's clearly aimed at an adult audience. Netflix has also teased a "whole lot more" is on the way, which could have something to do with the recent acquisition of Oxenfree's Night School Studio.
It remains to be seen where Netflix goes next, but let's remember that wild rumour a partnership with Sony could be on the cards to bring some beloved PlayStation games to the service. Netflix Games will be ad-free, have no additional fees, and won't offer in-game purchases. It all sounds great, but how long will this really last before the dollar signs start ringing?
We know playing Stranger Things: 1984 on mobile might not exactly be a AAA title to while away the hours, but still, it's a place to start. We'll have to wait and see whether this is Netflix's next move in world domination or just another Stadia waiting to happen.
