Netflix now lets you play multiplayer games on your TV
What's the story
Netflix has finally launched its long-awaited cloud gaming feature, allowing users to play a selection of multiplayer games on their TVs. The streaming giant had first announced the development of this technology in 2022 and began beta testing it last year. Now, the service is available with titles like Boggle Party, Party Crasher: Fool Your Friends, Lego Party, Pictionary: Game Night, and Tetris Time Warp.
Strategic shift
Aiming to replace traditional board game nights
Netflix's approach to gaming has been inconsistent, swinging between being a niche development studio and a platform for premium mobile games. However, the introduction of party games on TV could be the key to establishing a solid footing in this space. The company hopes these multiplayer titles will serve as an alternative to traditional family board game nights, making them more accessible and engaging for users.
Market adaptation
Casual co-op games take center stage
Netflix's decision to offer co-op games with casual cooperation elements instead of traditional multiplayer ones, is a savvy move. The platform is capitalizing on the rising trend of these types of games. Titles like Boggle Party and Pictionary: Game Night are video game adaptations of popular board games, while Tetris Time Warp and Lego Party are simple video games based on well-known franchises that require no console.
Gaming evolution
Netflix's gaming journey since 2021
Netflix's gaming journey has been a mixed bag, with a focus on mobile gaming since 2021. The company acquired video game studios like Night School (Oxenfree) and Spry Fox (Cozy Grove) and launched its own studio with veterans from Overwatch, Halo, and God of War. It also became the exclusive mobile platform for critically acclaimed games like Monument Valley, Poinpy, and Hades. However, in 2024 it shut down the AAA studio before it could release or announce its game.
Strategy shift
Challenges and studio shutdowns
Netflix has also faced challenges in its gaming strategy, shutting down studios and removing third-party titles from its service. These moves have raised eyebrows among game developers. However, Alain Tascan, President of Netflix games, confirmed the company's approach wasn't working as planned. He said they need to "find our voice" and plan to "readjust and focus on fewer areas with more intention."
Future plans
Vision for the future
Tascan outlined four areas of focus for Netflix's gaming future: games for kids, narrative games tied to Netflix IP, widely appealing games, and multiplayer party games. With cloud multiplayer gaming now available, the final piece of the puzzle has fallen into place. The company's refocus is similar to moves by Apple Arcade and Amazon's Luna game service which started with big titles but later shifted to more casual offerings.