Amy Love 

Opinions Editor 

aml7458@psu.edu

The streaming platform Netflix expanded their business on November 2 by releasing new mobile games. As of right now, there are five different games that are on the app: “Stranger Things: 1984,” “Stranger Things 3: The Game,” “Shooting Hoops,” “Card Blast” and Teeter Up.” 

For now, the games are only available to Android users. There is a plan to bring the serveris to Apple IOS, but there has not been any official dates of when this would be from Netflix. The games can be found through the Netflix app. The app that is on Android devices will now see a row that is dedicated to games. This will be where individuals can select games that will have to be downloaded prior to playing. It would only be found on adult Netflix profiles. Guardians will have an option to set up a PIN number so that a child could have access to the games, as well as other content on Netflix. 

The mobile games are not catered to a single audience; Netflix’s goal is to have games designed for everyone. Netflix stated: “Just like our series, films, and specials, we want to design games for any level of play and every kind of player, whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong gamer.” 

This is available for those who have a subscription to Netflix and will come with no extra cost to the user. There are also no ads or in-app purchases within the games. 

Majority of the games will require an internet connection, but some will be able to be played offline. 

Netflix hopes that this has an impact on their streaming services, further developing the stories that are created with Netflix originals. Earlier this summer, Greg Peters, who is Netflix’s chief operating officer and chief product office said: “Maybe someday we’ll see a game that spawns a film or series. That would be an amazing place to get to, to really see the rich interplay between these different forms of entertainment. Executives of Netflix also said that they hope popular characters or games may be able to help with video content decisions in the future. 

In an announcement Netflix released regarding the release of their games, they said: “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 the journey with us.” 

This is only the beginning for the company, who has said that they are “just getting started.” They have stated in their announcement that they are “excited to continue improving our mobile gaming experience and adding to our entertainment offering in the months ahead.” 

The gaming services are still in the works for Netflix, but is something to look forward to from the streaming platform.