Netflix introduced games to its streaming platform two years ago, offering them as part of the subscription package. However, the streaming giant is contemplating changes to monetize its gaming services, aiming to generate more revenue from this venture. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, internal discussions have been ongoing for several months within Netflix regarding potential strategies for monetisation.
Among the options under consideration are introducing in-app purchases, implementing premium charges for higher-quality game titles, and displaying advertisements within games available to subscribers under the ad-supported tier. Notably, during an earnings call in April 2023, Netflix explicitly stated that, at that time, they had no intentions of introducing ads or in-game purchases.
According to Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters, the company wants to provide a unique gaming experience that prioritises player enjoyment. Therefore, the focus is on allowing game creators to build games without worrying about other forms of monetization. “We want to have a differentiated gaming experience and part of that is giving game creators the ability to think about building games purely from the perspective of player enjoyment and not having to worry about other forms of monetisation, whether it be ads or in-game payment,” Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters told investors.