Netflix has officially announced the closure of its interactive fiction games under the Netflix Stories banner, marking the end of a brief yet intriguing experiment in narrative gaming. This decision may come as a surprise to many, especially considering the solid player base these games had cultivated. So, why did Netflix Stories get the axe? Let's dive in to find out the full story!
The news, initially reported by Variety, aligns with a larger strategic pivot at Netflix Games. The company is now steering its focus towards mobile titles that include party games, children's games, mainstream releases, and other interactive experiences designed for TV play.
Boss Fight Entertainment, the creative force behind the Netflix Stories series, will continue to collaborate with Netflix on other projects, such as the eagerly awaited Squid Game: Unleashed.
Netflix Stories Gets Cancelled, So Is It Shutting Down?
Despite facing some criticism, Netflix Stories consistently ranked among the top-played games on the Netflix platform. Recent reports place it fourth in the Netflix Games top 10 carousel, which is determined by playtime rather than downloads.
Looking at the future of the series, the last interactive title slated for release is Love Is Blind: NYC. Once this title completes its rollout, no new games will be developed under the Netflix Stories banner. This announcement follows shortly after the Netflix Stories app began teasing its next game, The Love Contract, which was set to launch on April 8th.
Unlike previous titles, The Love Contract was not tied to any existing Netflix intellectual property. Instead, it was an original romance story centered around an actress navigating a complex love triangle with a Hollywood star and a billionaire, enveloped in a whirlwind of fame, scandal, and faux relationships. Unfortunately, this game has now been cancelled.
While no new games will be developed, the existing Netflix Stories titles will remain available for players to enjoy. These include Love Is Blind, Emily in Paris, Money Heist, Love Is Blind: Winter’s Kiss, Perfect Match, Sex Education, Selling Sunset, Sweet Magnolias, Virgin River, and The Perfect Couple. However, planned sequels such as Outer Banks and Ginny & Georgia have been cancelled.
That's the scoop on the cancellation of Netflix Stories! If you're a fan of Netflix shows and want to experience these interactive tales, you can still find them on the Google Play Store.
Stay tuned for more exciting news, including our next scoop on the new trailer for Chapter 3 of Tribe Nine: Neo Chiyoda City, coming soon!