Netflix’s Growing Appetite for Video Games in North America and Beyond

Netflix is positioning video games as a core pillar of its broader strategy for streaming, a move that has become more visible in recent years. Since 2021 the Los Gatos, California company has pursued two parallel paths: building a dedicated Netflix Games library within its app and developing new products that expand the catalog beyond traditional film and TV offerings.

The group has pursued an aggressive approach to titles and partnerships after acquiring several large studios over time. A notable transition includes shifts toward console and TV experiences, with Netflix recently releasing a game controller compatible with its ecosystem. This signals a future where playing Netflix games could be integrated seamlessly across devices, from phones to televisions, as described in app listings and developer notes.

Netflix aims to deepen the gaming connection

Currently, a beta test is available in select regions, with the United Kingdom and Canada showing early access to a curated set of games. Netflix began diversifying its portfolio with ventures into television‑level gaming experiences and interactive narratives, providing a glimpse into how the service might blend subscription streaming with interactive play. In the early era, Google explored similar territory with an entertainment system, though that project did not endure. Netflix’s evolving strategy signals a renewed focus on interactive entertainment and multi‑screen play where the game experience can accompany and augment viewing.

Users can expect a small slate of games initially designed for mobile play, with potential expansion to larger screens as the catalog grows. The aim appears to be to provide a smooth transition from handheld devices to televisions, enabling a larger audience to enjoy Netflix‑hosted titles without leaving the platform.

‘Oxenfree’

Originally released in 2016, this title helped establish a benchmark for narrative‑driven adventure on modern platforms. The storyline follows two students from a coastal institute who uncover a mysterious mystery during a night venture on an abandoned island. The game is celebrated for its atmospheric design and player‑driven storytelling, and it has been highlighted by gaming outlets as a notable example of how interactive media can fuse suspense with meaningful choice. The title has become a touchstone for discussions about how Netflix could present similar experiences within its gaming catalog and streaming ecosystem.

‘Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon’

This adaptation of a beloved classic brings the franchise into a roguelike puzzle format. The core challenge lies in collecting new equipment, earning rewards, and guiding a rotating cast of characters through a grid‑based dungeon. The game preserves the humor and charm of the original 2D universe while translating it into bite‑sized, replayable sessions that suit both mobile play and larger screen experiences. It stands as an example of how Netflix might curate retro‑inspired experiences that still feel fresh and freshly accessible to a broad audience.

‘Cut the Rope Daily’

Netflix recently added a daily‑level variant of a long‑running physics puzzle game to its catalog. The mobile classic, originally launched in 2010, emphasizes physics puzzles and clever level design. The daily iteration provides a new challenge every day while preserving the core gameplay that fans know and love. This move demonstrates Netflix’s approach to evergreen franchises: keep the core joy intact while continually refreshing content in bite‑sized, accessible formats for a streaming audience that often multitasks across devices.

‘Into the Breach’

While Netflix has multiple projects, a strong nod to independent development shines through this title. Recognized for its strategic depth and tight design, the game sits among acclaimed strategy experiences that have earned accolades from industry outlets and award bodies. Netflix’s interest in bringing such titles to mobile platforms reflects a broader strategy of offering dense, highly replayable games that reward thoughtful planning and quick thinking. The approach emphasizes accessibility without sacrificing depth, a balance that’s highly valued by both players and critics.

‘Stranger Things: 1984’

Brand alignment with popular media properties remains a core theme. The Stranger Things universe has served as a testing ground for cross‑media storytelling, with interactive experiences that extend the series’ appeal across devices. Netflix’s game catalog aims to provide a cohesive experience where narrative depth, atmosphere, and familiar characters can engage gamers who also follow the show. The 1984 edition exemplifies how a single property can anchor a broader gaming strategy, offering diverse gameplay while maintaining a shared fictional world that fans recognize and enjoy.

Across these entries, the overarching goal is clear: deliver engaging, story‑driven experiences and clever, pick‑up‑and‑play titles that resonate with both existing subscribers and new users. As Netflix continues to refine its platform, readers can expect a steady rhythm of new titles and updates that expand the catalog, making the service a more versatile destination for entertainment and play.