Netflix Reportedly Plans Big Video Game Push— What You Need To Know

Netflix Reportedly Plans Big Video Game Push— What You Need To Know

Netflix appears to be looking to expand into more interactive and gaming content, which could include services like Apple Arcade rather than relying solely on choice-based interactive programming such as Black Mirror's Bandersnatch and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend. The idea is to include services like Apple Arcade, rather than relying solely on choice-based interactive programming like "Black Mirror's Bandersnatch" and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend.

The Information (subscription required) spoke with anonymous sources who said that the company has been talking to gaming industry veterans and has the talent needed to enter the gaming market, which is worth an estimated $300 billion worldwide.

Netflix told Polygon that the company is "excited to do more with interactive entertainment." This statement does not confirm that the company is considering tailor-made games. As a medium, however, select-a-path style video has limited appeal. For decades, it has been possible in many forms, from books to interactive content on CD-ROM, so a more immersive style of entertainment seems like the next step.

Netflix is well known for taking video game content and turning it on its head. Shows like The Witcher are games based on books, and the company has also produced DOTA: Dragon's Blood, based on the popular strategy game. The company also produces games in a limited form, with "Stranger Things" being distributed on a number of mobile and other platforms.

Naturally, Netflix needs to do something to boost subscriber numbers; 200 million is the largest streaming distributor, but Disney+ has the ambition and customer interest to catch up within a few years. Netflix's domination of all Disney platforms emulation would be a natural for the company as it seeks to increase revenue and subscribers.

Perhaps the biggest question is how the company intends to monetize its entry into gaming. Television and movies are notoriously expensive, but that does not extend to video game development. Game development routinely costs in excess of $100 million, with titles such as "Cyberpunk 2077" reportedly costing $316 million and "Red Dead Redemption 2" potentially reaching $500 million. While these games are certainly profitable, they are not without risk.

Of course, Netflix might really go the Apple Arcade route, eschewing AAA titles and instead looking to develop simpler, but addictive, mobile games. It would be more reasonable to bet on this route rather than becoming the next Rockstar Games. But asking Netflix to pay more is already a big ask, given that Netflix's monthly fees are high compared to other similar services.

It may be too early to announce anything, but Netflix is holding a "Geeked Week" event next month to show off new content. Perhaps we will see some hints there.

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