Why is Netflix Focusing on Video Games that are Connected to its Franchises?

Today, anyone looking for entertainment or a game has more options than ever before. Thanks to widespread internet access and the emergence of broadband networks, people are increasingly moving away from traditional forms of entertainment and gaming.

This applies not only to different types of games but also to video and audio content. When it comes to games, various online platforms offer an incredibly large selection — from action games to casino options.

Speaking of the latter, sites like Mr Bit offer a wide range of casino games such as roulette, blackjack, and various slot machines. These sites are available and popular in our country as well. One of their main advantages is their accessibility via mobile phones.

When it comes to video content, it’s worth mentioning platforms like YouTube, where people can upload their own videos as well as enjoy other users’ recordings. However, in recent times, streaming platforms have become dominant.

Today, users in Serbia can choose from a large number of such services, but Netflix certainly stands out. This is because they are expanding their activities beyond streaming. In recent years, the company has made some interesting moves in developing online games.

The Early Stage of Online Entertainment

It may not be widely known, but before launching its streaming service, Netflix operated “remotely.” This meant that people ordered titles, and the company would send DVDs by mail. This was back at the end of the previous millennium.

At that time, the internet was available to only a limited number of users. In the world of online entertainment, casino platforms were the most popular. However, as the number of internet users grew and technology developed, these games soon became available on mobile phones, and various casino app options began to emerge.

In parallel, Netflix moved its content online and quickly became known for streaming movies and series. This way, they built an empire that eventually began to expand into the field of online games.

Entering the World of Online Games

The company began experimenting with interactive content in 2017. The first result was the release of Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. This game was special because it allowed viewers to decide how the story would continue — a significant step in merging films and games.

The next title was Stranger Things 3: The Game, which became successful because it was tied to a Netflix series. The game stood out because it allowed players, at certain points, to influence the story’s continuation. This was Netflix’s first step toward the gaming market, although it’s worth noting they worked with external partners.

After these initial projects, Netflix officially announced in 2021 that it would offer video games to its subscribers — for free. Along the way, they acquired studios such as Boss Fight Entertainment and Next Games. With these acquisitions, they took game development into their own hands.

They quickly expanded their game library, and by 2024, they went even further by launching their own incubator. This studio hired top programmers with the goal of developing a unique video game universe.

Why is Netflix Expanding into the Gaming Market?

One of the reasons for entering the gaming market is to secure multiple sources of revenue. Throughout its growth, Netflix relied solely on online streaming.

However, competition in the streaming industry is getting stronger, so expanding their services was a logical decision. Initially, they focused on producing original content, but many of their series never got a second season.

By developing games based on their series, they can keep audiences engaged with those titles — and the process can even work in reverse. For example, a user may enjoy a Netflix game and then decide to watch the related series.

In short, it’s worth keeping an eye on Netflix in the coming period to see how this strategy develops.