Subscribers can now play party games on their smart TVs using their phones as controllers, marking Netflix’s boldest move yet into the world of gaming.
Netflix’s TV Gaming Era Begins
Netflix is officially entering the living room gaming scene. Starting this week, subscribers in select regions can play games directly on their smart TVs using their phones as controllers.
- The new feature lives inside the Games tab on the Netflix TV app.
- Once a game is selected, users pair their phone to control the gameplay.
- The release follows Netflix’s earlier hints and its launch of a controller app for iOS in 2023.
After a quiet rollout phase, TV gaming is no longer just a rumor—it’s here.
A New Gaming Strategy Focused on Fun with Friends
To kick things off, Netflix is rolling out five party-style games, all designed for group play and social engagement.
The launch titles include:
- Boggle Party – Race against time in teams to find words in a scrambled grid (up to 8 players).
- LEGO Party! – Compete in fun, fast-paced LEGO mini-games (4 players).
- Party Crashers: Fool Your Friends – Use deduction and social clues to find the odd one out.
- Pictionary: Game Night – Draw and guess in a modern take on the classic group game.
- Tetris Time Warp – Battle for high scores in this competitive spin on a retro favorite.
These games reflect Netflix’s new gaming focus on four main categories, with party titles now front and center.
More Than Mobile: Netflix Gets Serious About Gaming
Netflix first entered gaming with mobile titles in 2021, but this move signals a significant shift toward a broader gaming ecosystem.
- TV gaming brings Netflix into the console space—without needing a console.
- By leveraging its massive installed base of smart TVs and mobile devices, Netflix can compete with major game platforms through accessibility.
“This isn’t just an add-on—Netflix wants users to play as well as stream,” says industry analysts.
Social Gaming = Stickier Users
Launching with group games is a strategic choice.
- Party games encourage shared experiences, driving more engagement from households.
- This could boost user retention and increase time spent on the app, even when viewers aren’t watching shows.
Plus, with no extra hardware required, casual players are more likely to participate, especially in family or roommate settings.
Limited Rollout — For Now
The feature is currently available on select TV models in certain countries, with plans to expand globally.
- Netflix hasn’t yet disclosed the exact list of compatible devices or regions.
- Expect a gradual rollout, based on feedback and device performance.
As more titles and device support roll out, this could evolve into a core pillar of the Netflix experience.
