Netflix quietly launched a new app that turns the user’s smartphone into a video game controller for their TV. This is a sign that Netflix is serious about expanding its cloud gaming services and may have something big in the relatively near future.
The new app is available now for iOS devices. It’s unclear if Netflix is also working on an Android version, but that seems like a reasonable possibility. Unfortunately, while Netflix subscribers already have access to a library of games through Netflix Games, the new app isn’t currently compatible with anything. iPhone and iPad users can download the app, which will ask them to choose a game to play on their TV. However, the list of available games is currently empty. The splash screen also informs users that Netflix Games on TV is in beta and might not support all devices.
The Netflix game controller app is available but not quite functional
The lack of supported games and devices also means that no one knows how well this controller will work in practice. However, the controller itself appears to be quite simple based on its App Store screenshots. If the images are accurate, it consists of a virtual joystick, a large A button, and three smaller X, Y, and B buttons. This seems reasonable for most mobile games but would be limiting if Netflix wants to fulfill its ambition of breaking into AAA gaming. However, the full version may support alternate configurations.
Either way, the app is a clear sign that Netflix is going ahead with plans to expand its cloud gaming services. Netflix Games currently includes 70 titles from a variety of genres. The company is also reportedly developing an original AAA game with help from some former God of War and Overwatch developers. However, information on that project remains sparse.
