Netflix Launches Games Directly in TV App — Control Them with Your Smartphone

Netflix is raising its interactivity by embedding games directly into its smart-TV app. Subscribers will be able to launch family and party titles — such as Boggle, Tetris, and Lego Party — on their television and use their smartphones as controllers.

The company started with mobile games that subscribers could download at no extra cost. Although some high-profile mobile projects — including titles reminiscent of Grand Theft Auto — drew attention, they did not become a major driver of new subscriptions; according to Netflix, that was never the primary objective of their gaming efforts.

According to Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters, the emphasis is now shifting toward social, interactive formats:

“We’re moving beyond mobile devices. One of our goals is to create a collection of games you can launch on the TV while using your phone as an intuitive remote. It’s a straightforward and natural way to play.”

The initial roster includes Boggle, Pictionary, Lego Party, Tetris, and a Mafia-style detective game. Peters pointed out that touch controls open up interaction possibilities that traditional gamepads don’t, and developers are already experimenting with new ways to engage players.

As with the mobile offerings, all games will be available free to Netflix subscribers.

Source: iXBT.games