Netflix wants to provide wider access to its video games by making them available on TVs. After launching its service on mobile devices, the platform now intends to make its presence felt in the living room, where its subscribers already spend a lot of time. The idea is simple: to offer accessible games, without a console or controller, that can be controlled directly with a smartphone.
Netflix Games: video games for Smart TVs
At the Game Developers Conference in March 2025, Alain Tascan, President of Netflix Games, outlined this new strategy. A former executive at Epic Games (Fortnite, Fall Guys…), Tascan was appointed in July 2024 to redefine the direction of the gaming branch. Under his leadership, Netflix is refocusing on four main game categories: narrative, multiplayer, kids, and mainstream. This repositioning moves away from the initial ambition to produce AAA blockbusters, deemed unrealistic in the face of the industry’s heavyweights.
Among the notable announcements is the arrival of games that can be played on smart TVs at the end of the year. Netflix is working on making its titles available via streaming, controllable via smartphone, without the need for a controller. The idea is to promote accessibility and social interaction in the living room, a central entertainment space for the majority of its subscribers.
Video games already available on Netflix Games
Despite slow growth in the number of active players (3 to 4 million daily out of 300 million subscribers), the Netflix Games catalog is growing. The platform now boasts over 140 titles, all included in the VOD service’s subscription, without advertising or integrated purchases.
Several games from well-known licenses have made their appearance. The latest, Street Fighter IV: Champion Edition, allows players to take on other subscribers online, while also offering an extensive single-player mode. Developed for mobile screens, the title offers a comprehensive experience with 32 fighters and a difficulty level to suit all profiles.
Squid Game: Unleashed also illustrates Netflix Games’ new strategy of extending the universe of its flagship series to video games. Based on the worldwide success of Squid Game, this title offers an interactive experience inspired by the series’ challenges. This way, Netflix seeks to prolong subscriber engagement by presenting universes they are already familiar with.
Another noteworthy addition is Steel Paws, a collaborative production with Yu Suzuki (Space Harrier, Out Run, Shenmue…), mixing action and platforming in a cybernetic universe. These titles reflect Netflix Games’ desire to draw on both iconic licenses and original creations.
Spirit Crossing, scheduled for 2025, also illustrates the evolution of Netflix Games’ approach. Developed by the Spry Fox studio, this massively multiplayer game relies on “benevolent interactions”, halfway between Animal Crossing and Japanese anime. It’s an example of the “cozy” approach that Netflix Games seems keen to explore further.
The imminent arrival of Netflix games on TVs confirms the company’s determination to establish a lasting presence in the video game landscape. By focusing on simplicity of access, social gaming and titles derived from the platform’s original audiovisual content, Netflix Games is attempting to win over casual gamers. While it’s a risky bet, the resources invested and the clearer strategy point to slow but targeted progress in a highly competitive sector.
Source: Netflix Games : « nous ne sommes pas encore le Netflix du jeu vidéo »
