Netflix Steps Up Its Gaming Game: What’s New and What’s Next

Netflix, the streaming giant we all turn to for binge-worthy content, is now making some major moves in the gaming world.

What started in 2021 as a quiet venture into mobile gaming has grown into a diverse library of games that could soon rival some major players in the industry.

From unique partnerships to cloud gaming tests, Netflix is determined to make gaming a key part of its entertainment empire.

Netflix games have already surpassed 210 million lifetime downloads as of 2024, showing strong user interest despite their relatively recent introduction.

This marks significant growth from earlier figures, reflecting Netflix’s expanding influence in the gaming sector.

Here’s a look at the latest developments and what’s on the horizon for Netflix gaming.

New Releases and Updates: More Games, More Fun

Netflix has been busy expanding its collection, with recent titles like Twelve Minutes and Oxenfree being added to its mobile library. 

Twelve Minutes, a psychological thriller featuring the voices of James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe, is a gripping time-loop adventure that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

Meanwhile, Oxenfree, a supernatural narrative adventure, offers a richly immersive experience that’s hard to put down.

The platform has also brought out Moonlighter, which allows players to step into the shoes of a dungeon crawler by night and shopkeeper by day.

Plus, the strategic mech battles of Into the Breach are perfect for players who enjoy tactics and brain-challenging gameplay. Netflix is not just adding games, it’s adding quality.

Partnerships and Cloud Gaming: Netflix’s Vision for the Future

Netflix isn’t stopping at mobile games. They’ve partnered with Ubisoft to bring exclusive games to the platform, including a new Assassin’s Creed title.

Ubisoft revealed it would be bringing three mobile titles, including an Assassin’s Creed game, to Netflix’s catalog in 2024, giving fans something to look forward to soon.

Beyond that, Netflix has announced plans to develop a “AAA PC game,” which signals a bold move into the broader gaming market.

This ambition sets Netflix apart, showing they’re willing to invest in big-budget gaming experiences that could be played on a variety of devices.

The company is also testing cloud gaming—a major leap that could let users play Netflix games directly on their TVs or PCs, similar to services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or Google Stadia.

Netflix has started testing cloud gaming, allowing players to use TVs and PCs.

This feature differentiates Netflix from other platforms by making its games accessible on a wider range of devices, seamlessly transitioning from mobile to larger screens, and offering convenience that rivals traditional gaming consoles.

While the tests are still in early stages, this move could potentially make Netflix a one-stop shop for both streaming and gaming, seamlessly blending passive and active entertainment.

Games Tied to Shows: A Unique Edge

One of Netflix’s standout features is its ability to tie games to popular series, giving fans a new way to engage with their favorite stories. 

The Queen’s Gambit Chess lets players step into Beth Harmon’s shoes, facing off in chess challenges inspired by the hit series.

Meanwhile, Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales allows players to dive back into Hawkins, solve puzzles, and battle familiar foes from the Upside Down.

It’s not just gaming—it’s an interactive extension of the worlds viewers already love.

Social Gaming: Multiplayer for the Masses

Netflix is also exploring the social side of gaming, offering multiplayer experiences like Triviaverse and Heads Up! which can be enjoyed with friends.

These games bring a lighthearted and competitive edge to Netflix, making it a great platform for both solo adventures and social game nights.

The convenience of playing directly from a mobile device, without any extra setup, means users can easily enjoy a round of trivia or a guessing game, all within the Netflix ecosystem.

Looking Ahead: Netflix’s Next Gaming Moves

With cloud gaming tests underway and an ambitious plan for new partnerships and AAA games, Netflix has made it clear that they’re just getting started.

The focus on integrating gaming with other aspects of their entertainment offerings—from interactive story-driven games to social multiplayer experiences—suggests Netflix wants to be more than just a streaming service.

Despite Netflix’s vast library of games, only 1% of subscribers are engaging with them, highlighting both the opportunity for growth and the challenges ahead.

Low engagement could be attributed to a lack of awareness, limited marketing efforts, or users not associating Netflix with gaming.

To boost participation, Netflix might consider more aggressive promotion, integrating game recommendations into the main app, or offering exclusive rewards for players.

With over 210 million lifetime downloads, it’s clear there’s a demand for Netflix games, even if engagement remains a challenge.

They’re pushing towards becoming a full-fledged entertainment hub.

Is Netflix Poised to Change the Gaming Industry?

Netflix has already changed the way we watch content, and now, they’re working on changing how we play.

With a growing library of quality mobile games, exciting partnerships with major studios, and a push into cloud gaming, Netflix is positioning itself as a serious player in the gaming world.

Whether you’re a fan of strategic challenges like Into the Breach, narrative adventures like Oxenfree, or multiplayer fun with friends, Netflix is building something for everyone.

The next time you finish a binge session and are met with the “Are You Still Watching?” screen, why not switch gears and try out a game instead? Netflix is no longer just about watching—it’s about playing too.