One of the perennial front-running tech companies known for early plays on entertainment is now expanding into a new arena – games.
Netflix has long been known as a leader in streaming video, but until now, only in a passive sense. From physical compact discs to smart TV channels, Netflix has given us tons of stuff to watch, and even inspired the coining of a new slang phrase: (Netflix and chill.)
Now, BBC reports the company is geared to introduce five games on its platform. Two of those games will be related to the hit series Stranger Things.
The other three games will be Card Blast, Teeter Up, and Shooting Hoops.
At least one of the Stranger Things games was previously released in Poland.
“We love games, whether it’s physical games (Floor Is Lava), mind games (The Circle) or Squid Game,” write spokes persons. “And we love entertaining our members. That’s why we’re excited to take our first step in launching Netflix games on mobile to the world. Starting today, members everywhere can play five mobile games: Stranger Things: 1984 (BonusXP), Stranger Things 3: The Game (BonusXP), Shooting Hoops (Frosty Pop), Card Blast (Amuzo & Rogue Games), and Teeter Up (Frosty Pop). Whether you’re craving a casual game you can start from scratch or an immersive experience that lets you dig deeper into your favorite stories, we want to begin to build a library of games that offers something for everyone. We’re in the early days of creating a great gaming experience, and we’re excited to take you on this journey with us.”
Netflix leaders are hoping that this pivot introduces them to a new audience.
At the same time, everyone from Apple to Activision (and throughout the rest of the alphabet) is hopping on the gaming bandwagon.
“These days, whenever someone mentions video games or casino games, the first thought that comes to mind is playing online,” writes Maya Gul at Tapscape.
“Even without the global pandemic which increased the popularity of playing games on gambling sites, this industry continues to grow at an admirable rate.”
In fact, with Facebook’s insistence on dominating VR, expect Zuckerberg and company to be looking at gaming options, too.
In terms of markets, Netflix’s change might affect that balance of top FANNG stocks that investors look at as appealing blue-chip opportunities. Take a look.
