Netflix Is Adding Video Games to Its Library

As it stands, we already have a tough enough time deciding what to watch on Netflix on a given evening. Imagine the overwhelming indecision that promises to take hold if a whole new medium enters the picture. As first reported by Bloomberg News, Netflix could be adding an additional form of entertainment to its library: video games. Perhaps the streamer wasn’t satisfied with simply dominating the industry of at-home viewing.

Granted, we shouldn’t expect that Netflix will leap to the forefront of the gaming world just yet; this foray remains in its nascent stage, and will likely prove an uphill battle. But Netflix does appear to be taking the first steps toward incorporating games into its functionality; Bloomberg reported that the company has hired EA and Oculus’ Mike Verdu as vice president of game development. Furthermore, Netflix is in the process of filling additional gaming-relevant positions, including “Director of Product Innovation, Interactive.”

The publication added, per an unnamed source, that Netflix intends to offer gaming options within 2021. Perhaps most importantly: the reports continue that games will fold into Netflix’s existing subscription packages. In other words, you won’t have to pay extra for video games specifically. At least that’s the (rumored) plan for now.

Netflix

One of the biggest questions at present concerns the functionality of a Netflix game. Will players utilize laptop keyboards and trackpads, and/or smart TV remote controls? These methods did come into play when Netflix incorporated its first interactive media: its Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style episodes of Black Mirror and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. That said, compared to your average video game, these titles’ functionality was decidedly simplistic.

The other big question: what sorts of gaming titles will Netflix accrue? Could the streamer strike distribution deals with major game companies? Or will we see Netflix-brand content spawn game spin-offs, à la the aforementioned Black Mirror/Kimmy Schmidt specials? Truth be told, there’s a lot of room for opportunity there. A Bird Box platformer! An Umbrella Academy adventure game! A Mank RPG! The endless choices are already overwhelming me.

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