Netflix: Kids Uninterested in Consoles, Focus on Other Dreams

Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, envisions a future where the next generation of gamers may not be as reliant on traditional gaming consoles. As industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate with new hardware, Tascan shared his perspective on the evolving gaming landscape 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 doubts about the younger generation's interest in future consoles 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, be it a phone, tablet, or even in-car entertainment systems. "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 admitted a personal fondness for console gaming, citing Nintendo's Wii as a favorite. With a background at major studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games, he is no stranger to traditional console game releases. However, Netflix's strategy is moving in a different direction, focusing on mobile gaming and reducing barriers to entry for players.

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 made notable titles like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition available to subscribers on mobile devices. Tascan reiterated Netflix's commitment to this approach, aiming to develop party games and become 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 highlighted the challenges of subscription models and the need to reduce barriers such as the cost of hardware and download times. "But the other friction is having enough controllers for family. Having a piece of hardware that might be expensive, that’s another friction. Waiting for a game to download, that’s another friction. I am [looking at] all the obstacles, and asking if we can reduce them as much as possible."

Netflix reported a tripling of game engagement in 2023, indicating a strong commitment to further investment in gaming. However, the company scaled back its ambitions in October 2024 by shutting down its AAA studio led by former developers of Overwatch, Halo, and God of War. Additionally, cuts affected Night School Studio, the team behind Oxenfree, which Netflix acquired in 2021.

As Netflix aims to cater to a market less interested in traditional consoles, the industry continues to evolve. Sony and Microsoft are expected to release next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox, while Nintendo is on the brink of unveiling its Switch 2 at a dedicated Direct presentation next week. Fans eagerly await details on the new console's features, release date, and pre-order information.