Since its launch in 2021, Netflix’s foray into the gaming world has faced its share of hurdles. Despite boasting a selection of games based on popular series like Stranger Things, the streaming giant’s Games feature has struggled to reel in a large subscriber base. But a potential game-changer is on the horizon.
According to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal, Netflix is in talks to forge partnerships with external game publishers, including Take-Two Interactive—famed for the Grand Theft Auto series. This collaboration could be the shot in the arm that Netflix’s gaming endeavor so desperately needs.
While it’s still in the speculative stage, the addition of a Grand Theft Auto title to Netflix’s gaming lineup could be monumental. There is, however, no clarity yet on whether this would be a newly developed game or an existing title from the franchise.
The buzz around this potential collaboration has led Grand Theft Auto fans to flood social media platforms with suggestions. Many believe that a sequel or remake of Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars would be the perfect addition to Netflix’s mobile-only gaming service. Originally released on Nintendo DS, and later made available on Android, PSP, and iOS, Chinatown Wars has enjoyed wide acclaim, accumulating multiple awards and glowing reviews over the years.
Notably, Netflix’s gaming feature currently operates solely through its mobile app, setting it apart from typical mobile games by not offering any in-app purchases. The inclusion of a high-profile game could substantially raise the profile of the service, making it more appealing to subscribers.
However, while speculation about a new version of Chinatown Wars energizes the gaming community, it remains uncertain whether Take-Two Interactive would consider this kind of collaboration with Netflix.
As Netflix aims to up its game in the interactive entertainment sector, the possibility of such a high-profile collaboration could be a transformative moment for both the streaming and gaming industries.