Netflix Shuts Down AAA Game Studio Without Releasing a Single Game
The First Cracks in Netflix’s Gaming Foray?
As the streaming giant continues to push its way into the gaming world, the first signs of trouble are starting to emerge. The news, initially reported by Game File and confirmed by Netflix, is that one of its studios has quietly been closed. This marks the first closure in three years since the company entered the gaming arena, leaving many to wonder about the future of its gaming ambitions.
A Prolific Start, But the Road Ahead is Uncertain
Netflix has had a steady stream of games on its platform since launching its gaming experiment in 2021. From humble beginnings with simple mobile games, its offerings have expanded to include iconic titles like Grand Theft Auto and Hades, as well as its own internal developments, such as Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit and Oxenfree II: Lost Signals.
Expanding Its Reach, But at What Cost?
To support this gaming pipeline, Netflix has acquired or set up various studios. The most recent additions were a mobile game studio in Helsinki, a new studio in southern California, and the developer behind Cozy Grove, Spry Fox. However, with the closure of its Blue studio, it’s clear that the company’s trend of expansion is coming to an end, alongside its grander AAA ambitions.
As the streaming giant continues to navigate the complex and competitive gaming landscape, only time will tell what its future holds for its gaming foray.