Netflix Shuts Down ‘Stories’ Mobile Games Franchise
Netflix has recently announced a shift in its gaming strategy, revealing that it will no longer be producing games for its “Netflix Stories” interactive fiction franchise. This decision comes as the company’s focus shifts towards mobile titles, including party games, narrative games, kids games, and mainstream games that can be played on TV. As part of this reorganization, a number of employees from the gaming division have unfortunately been laid off.
The “Netflix Stories” franchise was home to a collection of interactive fiction games based on popular Netflix series such as “Virgin River,” “Love is Blind,” “Emily in Paris,” “Outer Banks,” and “Perfect Match.” While a “Sweet Magnolias” game was released in February, a previously announced game centered around the “Ginny & Georgia” TV series will no longer be developed.
The decision to discontinue games for Netflix Stories comes after the appointment of Alain Tascan as president of games last summer. Tascan’s new focus on mobile gaming has led to the discontinuation of plans for additional games in the franchise. However, existing games will still be available to play on the Netflix app.
During the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, Tascan emphasized the importance of aligning Netflix’s gaming strategy with its overall mission. He stated, “We have to match the overall mission of Netflix — otherwise we’re just a distraction.” Despite the closure of Team Blue studio in October, Tascan reassured that Netflix remains ambitious in the gaming space.
At the conference, Tascan also introduced an upcoming game titled “Spirit Crossing,” developed by Netflix’s Spry Fox studio. This fantastical life-sim game, inspired by Studio Ghibli, will offer a massive multiplayer online experience. Additionally, Netflix is exploring ways to incorporate interactive storytelling into popular franchises like “Bridgerton” and incentivize players of games based on Netflix IP, such as the “Squid Game” mobile game.
The “Netflix Stories” app had gained popularity since the launch of Netflix’s mobile gaming business in 2021, with plans to release a new title in the franchise each month. Recent additions like “Netflix Stories: A Perfect Couple” and “Netflix Stories: A Virgin River Christmas” offered interactive experiences based on beloved Netflix series.
As Netflix continues to evolve its gaming strategy, it will focus on mobile titles and exploring new ways to engage players through interactive storytelling. Although the decision to discontinue games for Netflix Stories may disappoint fans, the company’s commitment to delivering innovative gaming experiences remains unwavering.
