Netflix: Kids Uninterested in Consoles, Focus Not on PlayStation 6

Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, envisions a future where the next generation of gamers may not be as fixated on traditional gaming consoles. As industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate with new hardware, Tascan shared his insights on the evolving landscape of gaming during an interview with The Game Business following a Netflix presentation in San Francisco. When asked about Netflix's potential foray into console gaming, Tascan expressed skepticism about the younger generation's interest in devices like the PlayStation 6.

"Look at the younger generation. Are eight year-olds and ten year-olds dreaming of owning a PlayStation 6? I am not sure," Tascan remarked. He emphasized a shift towards a platform-agnostic future, where gamers interact with any digital screen available, whether it's on a phone, tablet, or even in a car. "With console, you’re thinking about high definition, you’re thinking about the controller. If we look at this older model, I think it will restrain us," he added.

Despite his reservations, Tascan holds a fondness for console gaming, citing Nintendo's Wii as a personal favorite. With extensive experience at studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games, traditional console gaming isn't unfamiliar territory for him. However, Netflix's direction is leaning towards a different approach.

Netflix has successfully adapted its IPs into games like Stranger Things 3: The Game and Too Hot to Handle: Love Is a Game, and has also offered access to well-known titles like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition. These games can be played directly from a mobile device, aligning with Tascan's vision for a low-friction gaming experience. He reiterated Netflix's commitment to this strategy, focusing on developing party games and positioning the platform as a hub for kids and families.

"I am very vigorous about lowering friction and eliminating it if we can," Tascan told The Game Business. He acknowledged that even subscriptions can be a form of friction, albeit a beneficial one for business. "We did the test of eliminating subscription for [mobile game] Squid Game: Unleashed. And we may do other tests," he added.

Tascan highlighted additional frictions like the need for multiple controllers in a family setting, the cost of hardware, and waiting times for game downloads. "I am [looking at] all the obstacles, and asking if we can reduce them as much as possible," he concluded.

Netflix's investment in gaming has seen significant growth, with game engagement tripling throughout 2023. Despite early reports indicating low subscriber engagement, the company remains committed to expanding its gaming offerings. However, it faced setbacks in 2024, including the closure of its AAA studio led by former developers of Overwatch, Halo, and God of War, and cuts at Night School Studio, acquired by Netflix in 2021.

As Netflix pivots towards a console-less future, the gaming industry continues to evolve. Sony and Microsoft are expected to release next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox, respectively. Meanwhile, Nintendo is on the brink of unveiling its Switch 2, with a focused Direct presentation set to reveal more about its features, release date, and pre-order details next week.