Netflix, the leading streaming service, is reportedly looking at ways to boost its gaming division’s income. Internal sources suggest the company is considering adding in-app purchases and ads to its games. This comes as the latest development in monetizing its gaming offerings.
Currently, Netflix offers over 75 mobile games, including popular titles like Grand Theft Auto and Monument Valley, free for subscribers. The company is thinking about charging for premium games and adding ads within these games, although there’s no official statement yet.
Internal talks suggest a shift in Netflix’s gaming strategy, potentially introducing in-app purchases and ads. This would be a new approach, moving away from their current ad-free gaming model.
Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters has emphasized focusing on enjoyable gaming experiences. He advocates for allowing game developers to work without the pressure of ads or in-game purchases.
Expanding its gaming reach, Netflix has introduced games on various devices and started testing cloud-streamed games in August last year.
The exact plans for monetization are unclear, with speculation around possible premium gaming subscriptions or targeted ads within games.
As Netflix awaits official confirmation, these potential changes mark a significant moment for the company’s gaming efforts. Adding ads and in-app purchases could open new revenue avenues and broaden its audience, but there’s a risk of impacting the user experience and alienating subscribers used to an ad-free service.