Key Highlights
- Netflix is launching a new free app and offering a range of games as part of its subscription service.
- The new games include party games for TV that can be played using mobile phones as controllers, mobile games like Red Dead Redemption, and a special murder mystery game inspired by the Knives Out movie franchise.
- Netflix is also developing a puzzle app called Netflix Puzzled with challenges inspired by its biggest franchises such as Stranger Things, Squid Game, K-Pop Demon Hunters, and Emily In Paris.
- The company aims to provide a “completely new way to play games” according to Alain Tascan, Netflix’s President of Games.
New Free App and Games from Netflix
Netflix, the global streaming giant, has unveiled a significant expansion into the gaming world with the launch of a brand new free app. This move marks an exciting development for both long-time subscribers and newcomers to the platform.
The app, which is not paywalled, brings a wide array of games directly to users’ screens, enriching their entertainment experience beyond just watching content. According to Sean Keach, Head of Technology and Science at The Sun, “We’re not here to compete with consoles,” said Alain Tascan, Netflix’s President of Games during the unveiling event in Helsinki, Finland.
Party Games for TV
The streaming service has introduced a series of party games designed for the big screen. These games can be played using your phone as a controller via Netflix’s app on Android or the company’s N-Controller app on iPhone. Among these are hit titles like Boggle Party, Party Crashers: Fool Your Friends, and Pictionary: Game Night.
Users can seamlessly transition from watching their favorite series to playing games without leaving the Netflix interface. “Starting today, you can play games on your TV, using your phone as a controller,” explained Tascan. “No setup needed; it’s as easy as streaming your favourite shows.” This integration ensures that users can enjoy a variety of entertainment options in one seamless experience.
Mobile Games and Puzzle App
In addition to the party games, Netflix is also offering several mobile games within its subscription service. These include LEGO DUPLO World, Barbie Colour Creations, Toca Boca Hair Salon 4, and PAW Patrol Academy (coming soon). The company has also developed a puzzle app called Netflix Puzzled, which will feature challenges inspired by popular franchises like Stranger Things and K-Pop Demon Hunters.
This app is set to be available on both iOS and Android platforms. “We’re developing a completely new way to play games,” said Tascan during the event. “This is just the beginning.” The puzzle app promises to offer daily challenges that include jigsaw-style puzzles and classic games, enriching the gaming experience for subscribers.
Future Plans
Netflix aims to continue expanding its game offerings. They are developing a murder mystery style title called Dead Man’s Party: A Knives Out Game, inspired by the popular movie franchise. This will be joined by the original Red Dead Redemption for mobile, which is set to make its debut on smartphones.
“World-famous detective Benoit Blanc is in the house to solve another murder,” explained Netflix about their latest game. “This time?
It’s at your house and everyone’s a suspect in this social party game where you and your crew star in your own Knives Out mystery.” The game promises to provide both fun and engaging gameplay, blending the excitement of solving mysteries with the entertainment value of Netflix’s popular franchises.
Netflix is clearly positioning itself as a leader in the gaming space. With its extensive library of content and growing range of games, it looks set to offer users an immersive and diverse entertainment experience that goes beyond just streaming films and TV shows.
