Netflix to launch cloud-based game streaming on TVs, PCs and Macs

Netflix has taken another major step in its gaming ambitions, with plans to launch cloud-based game streaming to TVs, PCs, and Macs, ArsTechnica reports. Following the quiet launch of a TV game controller app for iOS devices last week, Netflix has officially announced its intention to delve into the subscription-based gaming streaming space.

Mike Verdue, vice president of gaming at Netflix, shared on his blog that the company has initiated a “limited beta test” for a select group of users in Canada and the UK. This test will allow users to immediately access games on certain TVs, and will soon be extended to PCs and Macs via the Netflix website in supported browsers.

So far, only two games are available for streaming on screens larger than mobile devices: Oxenfree 2, a visual novel-style adventure game developed by Netflix-owned Night School, and Molehew’s Mining Adventure, which is described as an arcade game about mining gems.

To play, TV users can use Netflix’s iOS game controller app. Meanwhile, PC and Mac users can play on Netflix.com using a keyboard and mouse. However, there is no word yet on support for full game controllers.

Interestingly, these games are already compatible with several popular devices for streaming services, including Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, NVIDIA Shield, Roku devices, Walmart ONN, and smart TVs from brands such as Roku, LG, and Samsung.

Netflix’s entry into the mobile gaming market has been subtle but strategic. The company offers its subscribers free games on iOS and Android platforms available through the respective app stores. Unlike Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass, Netflix Games provides its huge user base with new gaming opportunities without the need for an additional subscription or a separate app store. This approach also does not burden developers with adapting to a new platform.

While there have been challenges in the development of streaming games (as evidenced by the demise of platforms like Google’s Stadia), Netflix’s approach is distinctive. The company focuses on games that cater to a wide range of genres, including puzzle, casual, party, adventure, and light action games. Among the games that may be available for streaming are Moonlighter, TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, Laya’s Horizon, World of Goo Remastered, Shovel Knight, Immortality, Desta: The Memories Between, Reigns, and Into the Breach.

Netflix’s aggressive push into the gaming sector, accompanied by significant investments in its studios and cooperation with third-party developers, indicates the company’s big plans for this area. With this expansion, Netflix is positioning itself as a unique contender in the fight for screen time.