Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, anticipates a shift in the gaming landscape, where future generations might not be as enamored with traditional gaming consoles. As industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to advance with new hardware, Tascan shared his perspective on the evolving preferences of gaming enthusiasts 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 younger gamers' 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," he remarked. Tascan highlighted a trend towards platform-agnostic gaming, where kids are more interested in engaging with digital screens, regardless of the device or location—even in the car. He critiqued the traditional console model, which he believes focuses too heavily on high-definition graphics and controllers, suggesting that such an approach could limit Netflix's potential in the gaming space.
Despite his concerns, Tascan admitted a fondness for console gaming, citing Nintendo's Wii as a personal favorite. With a background that includes stints at major studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games, Tascan is no stranger to traditional console releases. However, Netflix's strategy is veering in a different direction, focusing on mobile gaming accessibility.
Netflix has successfully adapted its IPs into games, such as Stranger Things 3: The Game and Too Hot to Handle: Love Is a Game, and has also made popular titles like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition available to subscribers. These games can be played directly from a mobile phone, aligning with Tascan's vision of reducing friction in gaming. He emphasized Netflix's commitment to developing party games and positioning itself as a hub for kids and gaming families.
"I am very vigorous about lowering friction and eliminating it if we can," Tascan told The Game Business. He discussed the challenges of subscription models and even experimented with removing subscription requirements for Squid Game: Unleashed. Tascan also pointed out other forms of friction, such as the need for multiple controllers, the cost of hardware, and the time required to download games, all of which he aims to minimize.
Netflix reported a tripling of game engagement in 2023, indicating strong growth in its gaming division. However, the company also made significant cuts in 2024, including shutting down its AAA studio and reducing staff at Night School Studio, which it acquired in 2021. These moves reflect a strategic refocus as Netflix anticipates a market less interested in traditional consoles.
While Netflix shifts its focus away from consoles, industry leaders like Sony and Microsoft are poised to release next-generation devices such as the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox. Nintendo, on the other hand, is preparing to unveil its Switch 2 in a dedicated Direct presentation, where details about features, release dates, and pre-orders are expected to be announced.
