In collaboration with Samsung, Netflix continues to monetize it through various avenues, including a second season, a reality show spinoff, and now a live experience.
Introducing a New Live Experience
Netflix has introduced an interactive 'Squid Game' pop-up space in Los Angeles, capitalizing on the show's popularity. The company continues to monetize it through various avenues, including a second season, a reality show spinoff, and now a live experience.
For a general admission fee starting at $39, Engadget reported that attendees become contestants in six games inspired by the show's deadly challenges, such as the glass bridge and the 'Gganbu' marble-stealing game.
While players don't face actual danger, losing a game results in a buzzing bracelet, allowing them to progress through all six challenges.
By purchasing general admission tickets starting at $39, attendees commit to participating as contestants in a set of six games curated by Netflix, drawing inspiration from the show's perilous challenges.
The games include the glass bridge, requiring players to memorize illuminated tiles, and 'Gganbu,' a marble-stealing competition.
Rather than facing life-threatening consequences, losing participants receive a buzzing bracelet, enabling them to proceed and engage in all six games. Navigating from room to room and game to game, players vie against each other for the coveted title of winner.
In a unique twist, Netflix introduces a gimmick where successfully completing all six challenges within the 70-minute window grants participants priority casting consideration for the reality TV spinoff recently renewed for a second season.
Currently exclusive to Los Angeles, this limited-time experience is set to run through the new year, with Netflix suggesting that 'Squid Game: The Trials will make its way to another city in the future.
Collaborating with Samsung
Netflix collaborated with Samsung, a prominent Korean company, to create the in-person pop-up space. During games like Red Light, Green Light, the Galaxy S23 Ultra in the game room captures crucial gameplay moments through Hyperlapse video and still images.
Throughout various games, Samsung TVs and Galaxy mobile devices will be strategically placed, accompanied by "experiential zones" surrounded by Samsung TV screens, including the flagship Neo QLED 8K, the 4K, and The Frame.
Upon completing the games, general admission opens the door to a 'Korean Night Market' where attendees can indulge in street food and soju-infused cocktails. The event also features arcade-style and mini-games inspired by the show for attendees to enjoy.
Additionally, participants have the opportunity to purchase the iconic green tracksuit worn by contestants-perhaps a Halloween costume for the following year if Squid Game attire remains in vogue.
On a broader scale, Netflix is actively seeking to redefine its identity beyond being solely a streaming service.
The company is venturing into new territories beyond its core offerings, from making strides in the gaming realm, including virtual reality (VR), to unveiling plans for brick-and-mortar branded retail stores and dining spaces in the coming year.
Netflix is committed to exploring avenues for monetization by offering goods and experiences inspired by its extensive media library. The Squid Game live experience marks another venture into immersive encounters.
