Netflix is taking its cloud gaming ambitions to the next level with plans to offer co-op and party games that can be streamed directly to TVs, according to co-CEO Greg Peters. The move marks a significant expansion of the company's cloud gaming beta, which has been available to a subset of subscribers since 2023.

Peters described the new gaming initiative as a "successor to family board game night or an evolution of what the game show on TV used to be." While no specific timeline was provided for the rollout of co-op and party games, the company's continued investment in cloud gaming signals a commitment to providing a unique gaming experience to its subscribers.

In addition to co-op and party games, Netflix will also focus on developing "more narrative games based on Netflix IP." According to Peters, these games have proven to be "consistent fan favorites," and the company has a wealth of content to draw from in its library. This approach is likely to appeal to fans of Netflix's popular original content, who will be able to engage with their favorite shows and characters in a new way.

The expansion of Netflix's gaming division comes at a time of significant change for the company. Former executive Leanne Loombe recently announced her departure to join Annapurna Interactive, and the group has a new boss following the previous leader's move to a role focused on generative AI in games. Despite these changes, Netflix remains committed to its gaming ambitions, having already tested game streaming on US TVs in an effort to compete with established players like PlayStation and Xbox.

Notably, Netflix has also announced plans to remove nearly all of its interactive titles and close its AAA studio before it had a chance to release a game. This shift in focus towards cloud gaming and narrative games based on Netflix IP suggests that the company is refining its approach to the gaming market, prioritizing experiences that can be seamlessly integrated into its existing content ecosystem.

As Netflix continues to invest in cloud gaming, the implications for the gaming industry as a whole are significant. The company's massive user base and global reach provide a unique opportunity to bring cloud gaming to a wider audience, potentially disrupting traditional gaming models and creating new opportunities for developers and publishers. With its focus on narrative games and co-op experiences, Netflix is well-positioned to carve out a niche in the gaming market and provide a compelling alternative to traditional console-based gaming.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Netflix's expansion into cloud gaming is a significant development that will be closely watched by industry observers and gamers alike. With its unique approach and focus on narrative-driven experiences, Netflix has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the gaming industry and provide a new way for users to engage with their favorite content.