Netflix Gaming Boss Wants To Lower “Friction” And Bypass “Expensive” Consoles

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In simple terms, Alain Tascan, head of gaming at Netflix, has shared his aspirations for the future development of gaming within Netflix. He intends to minimize barriers, much like the Nintendo Wii did by making gaming more accessible to a broader range of people.

In conversation with The Game Business, Tascan expressed that while working at EA, one of his goals centered around “reducing obstacles and getting rid of them altogether.” He admired the Wii due to its affordability and broad appeal, and Tascan aims to replicate a comparable approach at Netflix.

Tascan pointed out that some issues in gaming currently include the necessity of having enough controllers at home and owning an expensive dedicated gaming device. Additionally, waiting for game downloads can be frustrating. However, Netflix Gaming aims to address these problems by removing the need for a separate gaming console and controllers, as Netflix intends to deliver games through the cloud. In fact, streaming games via the cloud is already accessible on Netflix.com under the Games section.

Tascan is hoping that Netflix could develop additional “social gathering games” which enable individuals to enjoy themselves swiftly, without requiring a gaming console or unique controller.

He proposed an idea for party games: “By utilizing the phone as a unique controller, we can instantly bring fun to everyone! With a gyroscope, microphone, speaker, and touchscreen on every smartphone, what amazing creations might emerge from creative minds? Whether you’re playing alone or with a group, large or small, why not explore possibilities for an immersive experience?

Tascan went on to say that what he’s excited about at Netflix is helping games reach more people.

Just as mobile gaming expanded from around 150-200 million players to now over 3.2-3.3 billion, I’m confident we can reach even more gamers. The question is not whether complex RPG-style games have their place – they certainly do. However, what I find intriguing is the potential of platforms like Netflix to connect with a vast audience. How can we create content that these people will enjoy and continue to engage with?

Ultimately, Tascan spoke about Netflix’s dedication to the gaming industry. Given that they closed their AAA game studio to concentrate more on mobile and multiplayer games instead, this is a shift worth noting. Interestingly, Google too had significant involvement in gaming with Stadia, but it was eventually discontinued.

In the competitive world of gaming, according to Tascan, achieving success requires patience, persistence, and financial commitment for outstanding outcomes. Not all companies are prepared to invest their time and resources, but Tascan highlights that Netflix stands apart.

When you consider our dual CEOs, Ted [Sarandos] has been with us for 25 years and Greg [Peters] more than 15. Reflecting on Netflix’s core business from a decade ago, it’s clear they embody perseverance, hard work, innovation, and vision-setting. Although the journey isn’t always direct to success, I trust their conviction when they emphasize gaming’s importance. Given that Netflix aims to entertain globally, there’s no avoiding games. Looking at these two leaders in particular, as well as the rest of our management team, I have faith in their unwavering dedication.

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2025-03-28 18:39