Multiple reports indicate that Netflix is considering an expansion into online gaming, which could work similarly to Apple’s digital gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade.
The Information on Friday reported that Netflix had approached veteran game industry executives about joining the company:
Netflix is looking to hire an executive to oversee an expansion into videogames, a sign it is stepping up its efforts to grow beyond traditional filmed entertainment, according to people familiar with the situation.
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One option the company has discussed is offering a bundle of games similar to Apple’s online subscription offering, Apple Arcade, one of the people said.
A Reuters reports corroborated with the above report, also mentioning the planned hire. This indicates the video streaming service is mulling a push into gaming that is said to have been spurred by a desire to find new ways to attract subscribers in the midst of slowed growth in the U.S. streaming market.
The information claims Netflix’s plans are still “very much in flux.” However, it has reportedly decided against including ads in its games, which indicates the gaming bundle would be offered as a value-added additional bundle.
An Axios report says its sources indicate the service would be like a “smaller Apple Arcade” bundle consisting of licensed Netflix intellectual policy, as well as original work commissioned from independent sources.
Netflix has dabbled in gaming in the past, with a choose-your-adventure style film “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch,” which proved to be popular. On the flip side, the company engaged in a partnership with Telltale Games to create a game based on “Stranger Things,” which was never released.
Asked from comment on the latest reports, Netflix didn’t deny the planned gaming exec hire and told Axios and The Information that it’s “excited to do more with interactive entertainment.”
Any Netflix gaming offering would be some way off, with some reports suggesting it could launch in 2022. Of course, plans can always change, so stay tuned.
(Via MacRumors)
