Netflix isn’t just about binge-worthy series and blockbuster films anymore. With its gaming initiative now three years old, the streaming giant is starting to show some serious ambition in the gaming industry. In its second-quarter 2024 financial report, Netflix outlined impressive subscriber growth—adding 8 million new users—and exceeded its financial projections. But beyond those numbers, the report also laid out Netflix’s future plans for gaming, which include a new Squid Game video game.
Three Years of Gaming, But Just the Beginning
It’s been almost three years since Netflix dipped its toes into gaming, offering a variety of titles, from heavy hitters like GTA San Andreas to indie darlings like Hades, and even casual games like Exploding Kittens and adaptations of Netflix originals like Stranger Things. Gregory K. Peters, Netflix’s CEO, reflected on the progress, stating that Netflix Gaming has already surpassed their initial expectations, but this is just the start.
Peters shared, “We set some ambitious goals for engagement growth, and in many cases, we’ve exceeded them. We’re pleased with where we are but excited for where we’re heading next.”
With over a hundred games in its catalog, Netflix has caught the attention of its users. Unsurprisingly, games based on Netflix’s own franchises are leading the pack. Fans of the platform are gravitating towards these narrative-driven experiences.
Leveraging Netflix’s Own Stories
Peters emphasized the success of games that tie into Netflix originals. The platform is leveraging its storytelling strengths to offer interactive narrative-driven games, hosted within a hub called “Netflix Stories.”
He noted, “What’s really working is linking our members with games based on Netflix-specific titles they love. This allows us to move quickly and capitalize on an area we already excel in—storytelling.”
A “Squid Game” Video Game is Coming
Starting in July 2024, Netflix plans to ramp up its game production, delivering at least one new title every month under its Netflix Stories banner. After launching titles tied to Virgin River and Perfect Match, Netflix confirmed that games based on Emily in Paris and Selling Sunset are also in the works.
But the real headline? A Squid Game multiplayer video game is in production, set to launch alongside the highly anticipated second season of the hit show. Theodore A. Sarandos, Netflix’s co-CEO, mentioned this synchronized release is just the beginning of what the platform envisions as a closer link between its gaming and streaming services.
Ambition Beyond Simple Adaptations
Sarandos is pushing for more than just straightforward TV-to-game adaptations. He hinted at a grander vision where Netflix gaming could enhance its series by offering fans the opportunity to dive deeper into their favorite worlds between seasons. “The idea,” he explained, “is to give our most invested fans a space to engage between seasons, or even beyond, using gaming as a platform to introduce new characters, plot twists, or even scenarios that may later play out in a season of the show.”
It’s a bold ambition, and one that could reshape the way fans experience Netflix content. The idea of blending gaming and streaming into one transmedia universe could elevate how stories are told across both mediums. Imagine unlocking a new character in a game, only to see them make their on-screen debut in the next season of your favorite show.
A Tough Road Ahead in the Gaming World
While Netflix’s ambitions are clear, entering the gaming world—especially in a big way—won’t be easy. Though they’ve made strides with mobile games, stepping into the realm of bigger-budget, console-level games based on their most popular IPs will be a whole new challenge.
For now, Netflix is playing it smart by focusing on interactive narrative games that tie into their already beloved shows. But if they want to compete with the gaming heavyweights, they may need to invest in larger, more complex titles that go beyond quick, mobile-friendly experiences. Only time will tell if Netflix can successfully carve out its space in the competitive gaming market.
Either way, fans of Squid Game, Stranger Things, and other Netflix originals have a lot to look forward to—not just on their screens, but in their hands as well.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.