Netflix is trying to get into the game subscription market with five free mobile games for subscribers to their Android phones.
They were launched yesterday worldwide, with two games based on Netflix’s hit show Stanger Things, and three others billed as basic skill or card games.
The Silicon Valley-based company is promising more to come and also hopes to make the games available to Apple customers by rolling them out to iOS devices ‘in the coming months’.
Unlike many other mobile games, there are no ads or in app purchases.
Expansion: Netflix offers five free mobile games for subscribers (pictured) in an effort to get into the game subscription market.
The company stated that they were excited to announce the first steps in launching Netflix games on mobile devices to the world.
“We want a library of games that has something for everyone.”
It added: ‘While this is just the beginning of a long journey, we’re excited to provide a gaming experience that is differentiated from what is available today — exclusive mobile games with no ads, no in-app payments, included with your Netflix membership.’
The games can now be downloaded on Android tablets and smartphones around the world, including the UK, US and Canada. They were previously available in Italy, Poland, and Spain.
They are:
- Stranger Things: 1984
- Stranger Things 3 – The Game
- Shooting hoops
- Teeter up
- Card Blast
Netflix subscribers can access the games via the streaming giant’s Android App, which will direct them to a Google Play Store download link.
They will be displayed on the Netflix app and on the user’s device’s home screen.
The games are not available on Netflix profiles for children.
The company’s move comes after tests in a few other countries. It is trying to increase its offering in the face of increased competition in the streaming space.
Netflix aims to eventually release the games to iOS devices despite Apple having previously resisted attempts by other companies to put ‘stores inside stores’, especially around gaming.
The company said the initial games, which have relatively simple graphics, were in the very early stages, but it ultimately plans to create ones ‘for every kind of player’.
It hired Mike Verdu a veteran videogamer who was previously employed at EA Games and then at Facebook in augmented and virtual realities to head its gaming team.
Verdu, Netflix vice president for game design, said, “Whether you’re looking for a casual, easy-to-start game, or an immersive experience that lets your favorite stories come alive, we want a library of games that offers everything you need.”
‘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.
Fun: The Silicon Valley-based company promises more and hopes to make the games available for Apple customers by rolling them out to iOS phones ‘in the next months’
“We are excited about continuing improving our mobile gaming experience and adding entertainment options in the coming months.”
Netflix had announced its intention to expand into video games in July. The company is looking at potential hits that could be based on popular television series.
It has stated openly that it wants to compete against hit games like Fortnite online entertainment time. Analysts suggest that games could be a way to attract new subscribers.
The global gaming market now exceeds $300 billion (£220 billion), according to a study this year by consulting firm Accenture.