Netflix has started a restricted beta test for streaming games in the UK and Canada.
Netflix is testing its game streaming service in Canada and the UK. This beta phase is available on select TVs and will soon be available on PCs and Macs through Netflix’s website.
The first beta test will include “Oxenfree” from Night School Studio and the arcade game “Molehew’s Mining Adventure.”
When asked about this, Mike Verdu, VP of Games at Netflix, said they want to make games more available to their members. They are still figuring out things and look forward to hearing from the test users. And based on the user feedback, Netflix would work on improving its game streaming technology and controller interface.
It is also noted that a week back, Netflix quietly launched a game controller app for iOS. An Android version of the app is expected to be released soon.
The gaming service will be accessible on various devices, including Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, LG TVs, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku devices, Samsung Smart TVs, and Walmart ONN. They plan to add more devices later.
Netflix’s Focus on Gaming
Currently, Netflix houses 35 games for free and over 55+ titles are under development.
Back in 2021, Netflix started offering games on mobile devices. These games were inspired by their original content, such as “Exploding Kittens,” “League of Legends,” “Too Hot To Handle,” and “Stranger Things.”
As a strategic move, Netflix acquired several gaming studios, including Spry Fox, Boss Fight Entertainment, Night School Studio, and Next Games.
With continuous innovation and development, Netflix came up with their first text-based game on Discord, which is based on the movie “Heart of Stone”, starring Gal Gadot and Alia Bhatt.
Even with these continuous efforts, the Netflix games could garner only 23.3 million downloads, a small portion of Netflix’s 221 million subscribers, in 2022.
Alongside strengthening the streaming business, Netflix has rolled out features to curb password sharing with the Netflix Household feature, which would restrict individuals from accessing an account outside a particular household.
Also, to increase the subscribers and revenue numbers, Netflix introduced ad-supported basic plans in US, UK and a few more regions. With further expansion in mind, Netflix is also renegotiating terms with Microsoft for better Ad rates and inventory to gain an advantage over the ad sales and revenue
Ragul Thangavel
With over nine years of diverse professional experience, Ragul has made significant contributions across various domains, including Media Operations, OTT Technologies, Video Production, Ecommerce, and Social Media.
Holding an Engineering degree, Ragul's career took an unconventional turn when he discovered his passion for writing, leading him to begin his journey as a content writer.
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