Netflix Inc (NASDAQ: NFLX) is ready to give an added push to its gaming endeavors with a new app called Netflix Game Controller, which will soon allow users to play games on their TV.
Details are still scarce regarding the Netflix Game Controller app, available only on Apple Inc's (NASDAQ: AAPL) App Store, including the availability of specific games, supported games, and devices, but excitement is growing around the initiative.
What happened: Netflix has rolled out a new gaming app on Apple App Store that turns your iPhone screen into a gaming controller to play games on your TV's Netflix app.
Netflix Game Controller Interface
Users can now download the app if they own an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch running iOS 15 or later. It takes only 30MB of space. The concept of using smartphones as game controllers is not groundbreaking or new, as many other mods and emulators have been following the same to convert Android phones into game controllers for PC.
Netflix's established subscriber base and intuitive use of a phone as a game controller may provide an edge in a successful cloud gaming launch.
Where Did It Start: In 2021, Netflix ventured into the gaming world by launching several mobile games free for subscribers, including Stranger Things: 1984 and Shooting Hoops. Since its first step into the gaming scene, the mobile game library has rapidly grown, boasting more than 63 titles in today's date.
During the TechCrunch Disrupt event in 2022, Netflix VP of Gaming Mike Verdu hinted at the company's exploration into cloud gaming offerings.
Other giants, like Google's (NASDAQ: GOOGL) Stadia, have tried and failed in cloud gaming. Can Netflix succeed in this endeavor?
The transition from streaming box sets to gaming seems to be seamless for Netflix. Currently, its games seem more of an extension of its features than something a user would want to use Netflix for. Only time will tell whether this strategic move into gaming will propel Netflix to greater success.