Netflix has officially launched gaming on smart TVs, allowing subscribers to play directly on their television screens using their phones as controllers. The rollout, which begins this week in select countries, marks a major step in Netflix’s strategy to evolve beyond video streaming into interactive entertainment.
The announcement comes nearly two years after reports first surfaced about Netflix’s plans to bring its mobile games to larger screens. In 2023, the company released a game controller app for iOS devices, signaling early preparations for this move. Until now, however, details around timing and deployment had remained under wraps.
With the new update, users can simply navigate to the “Games” tab on the Netflix TV app, select a title, and use their smartphones as controllers. The experience requires no additional hardware or setup, making it easy for millions of existing subscribers to access games through their current devices.
Since entering the gaming space in 2021, Netflix has steadily expanded its library of titles and invested in building a more robust interactive platform. The launch of TV-based gaming marks a significant milestone in this evolution, transforming Netflix from a purely passive viewing platform into one that fosters real-time engagement and social play.
Alongside the launch, Netflix introduced a slate of new party-oriented games designed to be played in groups. These titles include reimagined versions of popular classics such as Boggle, Pictionary, and Tetris, as well as original social games like Party Crashers and LEGO Party. The emphasis on multiplayer experiences aligns with Netflix’s broader strategy to make gaming a communal activity that brings people together—mirroring the way its films and series spark shared cultural moments.
By adding party games to its lineup, Netflix aims to encourage group participation and extend how long users spend on its platform. This move not only strengthens subscriber engagement but also positions Netflix as a competitor in the broader entertainment ecosystem, where gaming, social interaction, and streaming increasingly intersect.
The company’s latest gaming initiative also signals a clearer long-term vision. Netflix recently outlined a strategy centered around four key game types, with party experiences being a major focus area. The goal is to build a diverse library that appeals to both casual and dedicated players, while integrating gaming seamlessly with Netflix’s existing content offerings.
Currently, the games are available on select smart TV models and in limited markets, but Netflix has confirmed plans to expand the feature globally over time. The company is also refining performance, connectivity, and mobile integration to ensure a smooth experience across various devices.
Netflix’s move into TV gaming represents its most ambitious push yet to diversify its offerings and redefine entertainment. As the boundaries between watching and playing continue to blur, the streaming giant is positioning itself as a cross-platform entertainment hub — one where storytelling, interaction, and community converge on a single screen.
