Netflix Launches Beta Testing of Cloud-Streamed Games in Canada, UK

Netflix, the global streaming giant, enters the gaming sector with the first public testing of its cloud-streamed games. A limited number of Netflix users in Canada and the UK may stream games on their TVs, connected TV devices, and web browsers starting this week.

Vice President of Games at Netflix, Mike Verdu, recently described in a blog that this endeavor was a "limited beta test" intended for a select number of subscribers, per The Verge. This testing period could depend on Netflix's ambitious entry into the gaming sector.

In November 2021, Netflix made its mobile gaming options available as a free perk for customers. The only platforms on which these games have so far been playable are iOS and Android.

Customers can play Netflix's game titles across a broader range of devices by expanding the availability of games to TVs and web browsers via cloud streaming. Additionally, by developing, Netflix can compete for gamers' attention on TVs and laptops.

What Are The Available Games?

Currently, Netflix is making two games available for testing: the first iteration of "Oxenfree," created by Night School Studio (which Netflix now owns), and a brand-new game called "Molehew's Mining Adventure," billed by Verdu as a "gem-mining arcade game."

Players will use mobile devices to operate the games on a TV. The controller will be included in the Netflix app on Android devices, while iOS users must download a separate controller app. Tech Times recently reported that the "Netflix Game Controller" app, which will let users play games on their television displays, will also be released as the streaming giant's expansion into the gaming field.

Amazon Fire TV streaming media players, Chromecast with Google TV, LG TVs, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku devices and TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Walmart Onn, and Netflix cloud-streamed games are among the supported devices. According to Verdu, Netflix intends to keep expanding its list of compatible devices.

A New Era For Netflix

Netflix's entry into gaming marks a new era for the company. The firm has developed interactive plays and tie-in games, but its gaming focus has grown significantly. Netflix views gaming as a way to stand out from the competition in a congested market caused by the emergence of streaming rivals.

Although the streaming juggernaut is releasing its gaming project in stages, the strategy is similar to how Netflix has grown its streaming business over the previous 10 years, according to an article from The Ringer. Because the corporation understands that its gaming strategy is a long-term endeavor, it may adapt it in response to member input and technology developments.

In addition to gaming, August offers a wide range of content, from classics like "Bee Movie" to Netflix Originals like "Soulcatcher," per The Economic Times. New Netflix content also includes the action flick "Heart of Stone" and the sports documentary "Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World."