With 2,7 billion players worldwide and some 142 billion euros generated in 2020, the video game sector attracts all the major brands. So, after Google with Stadia and Amazon via Luna, it's the turn of Netflix to take action!
And before taking the plunge, the SVoD giant has just recruited a gaming industry professional.
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Preparations begin
First of all, it should be noted that Netflix has not yet announced anything officially. Indeed, we owe this week's details to the generally well-informed site Bloomberg. According to the latter, the American multinational specialized in streaming will found a team dedicated to the launch of video games on its platform in the coming months. Several positions are to be filled, including that of a director of interactive product innovation. But in the meantime, a first hiring has been made.
Thus, we learn that Mike Verdu has just joined Netflix. The 56-year-old American is well known in the video game industry having held important positions in various companies such as Electronic Arts, Oculus and Zynga. He was appointed vice-president in charge of relations with video game developers. Its objective will therefore be to attract as many studios as possible to the service.
Read also:Stadia cuts its commission to 15% to encourage developers to join the platform
Video games at no extra cost?
At this time, it's unclear what form the games will come to on Netflix. But still according to Bloomberg, a new category could be created within the application itself. In short, just like documentaries, films or series, video games should have their own section. Other good news, Netflix would not foresee any immediate increase in the price of its monthly subscription despite this major addition (but an increase is not to be excluded in the long term).
Finally, Netflix does not currently seem equipped to develop its own games. Thus, partnerships will undoubtedly have to be made with publishers in the industry in order to create new titles or in order to bring already existing apps. The strategy is not yet very clear... Be that as it may, Netflix has the ambition to become a key player in gaming and has the financial resources necessary to achieve this... Finally, on condition of doing things in the order to avoid a doom for the Stadia.
