Netflix, a leading streaming platform primarily known for its extensive movie and TV show library, is reportedly exploring opportunities to become a gaming platform. According to Bloomberg and MacRumors contributor Steve Moser, Netflix might soon allow users to play games on their TVs using smartphones as controllers.
Currently, Netflix offers its subscribers access to over 50 games, which are free to play but only available on mobile devices. Users need to download the games as separate apps and log in with their Netflix credentials to play.
These games are not just simple tie-ins for Netflix properties. One of the most well-known Netflix mobile games is Into the Breach, a highly-regarded tactical strategy game released in 2018. The potential addition of gaming capabilities to Netflix’s TV streaming service could provide subscribers with a compelling reason to maintain their subscriptions.
According to a Bloomberg report, app developer Steve Moser found evidence of Netflix’s TV gaming plans within the code of the company’s iOS app. One particular line of code suggests using a smartphone as a game controller for TV-based gameplay, reading, “A game on your TV needs a controller to play. Do you want to use this phone as a game controller?”
Netflix has previously announced its intention to release 40 new mobile games this year, which will join the 55 games already available to subscribers on iOS and Android devices. However, data from Apptopia shows that less than 1% of Netflix subscribers engage with these mobile games daily.
Last year, Netflix revealed plans to develop a cloud gaming service that could potentially compete with Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming, Nvidia’s GeForce Now, and Amazon Luna. Leanne Loombe, VP of External Games at Netflix, stated earlier this month that the company envisions its members being able to play games on any Netflix device they own.
Netflix aims to expand its entertainment offerings and create new reasons for subscribers to stay on the platform. While the company faces challenges in encouraging user engagement with its gaming content, the integration of gaming capabilities into its TV streaming service could provide an additional layer of value for Netflix subscribers.
