Netflix: Kids Uninterested in Consoles, Dream Beyond PlayStation 6

Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, foresees a future where younger generations are less tethered to traditional gaming consoles. This perspective was shared during an interview with The Game Business after a Netflix presentation in San Francisco. Tascan questioned whether today's eight and ten-year-olds are even dreaming of owning a PlayStation 6, suggesting a shift in how the next generation interacts with gaming. He emphasized a future where gaming is platform-agnostic, with kids wanting to play on any digital screen, be it a phone, tablet, or even in-car entertainment systems.

Despite his personal fondness for console gaming, highlighted by his affection for the Nintendo Wii, Tascan's experience at major studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games does not sway his vision for Netflix. The streaming giant is moving towards a model that prioritizes accessibility and convenience over traditional console gaming.

Netflix has successfully adapted games from its IPs, such as Stranger Things 3: The Game and Too Hot to Handle: Love Is a Game, and has also made notable games like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition available to subscribers. These games can be played directly on mobile devices, aligning with Tascan's strategy to reduce friction in gaming. He aims to eliminate obstacles like the need for subscriptions, controllers, and lengthy downloads, making gaming more accessible for families.

Netflix reported a tripling of game engagement in 2023, indicating strong growth in this area. However, the company scaled back its gaming ambitions in October 2024 by shutting down its AAA studio and making cuts at Night School Studio, which it acquired in 2021. Despite these adjustments, Netflix remains committed to its vision of a gaming future that is less reliant on consoles.

Meanwhile, industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to push forward with new hardware. Nintendo is on the brink of unveiling the Switch 2, with a dedicated Direct presentation scheduled for next week. This event is eagerly anticipated by fans looking for details on the new console's features, release date, and pre-order information.