We're guessing the Netflix app on your phone isn't exactly your most used. Sure, you may have once used it in an emergency while on a delayed train, or other than this kind of Plan B scenario, that red and black icon probably doesn't get much love.
This is all about to change, as we reveal to you the not-quite-breaking news that Netflix offers a variety of Android and iOS friendly games based on your favourite shows, available to access from your phone or tablet.
Now, when we say this news isn't quite breaking… this function has actually been available globally for the best part of two years. What's more, it comes free with your Netflix subscription. Why it's only taken many of us all this time to realise its availability is anyone's guess – surely it could have been more spoken about at the time?
It's also kind of hard to find. After following the Netflix Help instructions for Netflix Games, we did eventually managed to see the ‘Mobile Games’ tab by scrolling down four rows on the home screen, as advised. However, it's likely our eyes would have glossed over this detail otherwise – as it's nestled between the standard ‘Continue watch’ and ‘Binge-worthy TV dramas’ rows, and not really differentiated in appearance apart from slightly squarer icons.
A quick gander on social media confirms that we weren't just living in a cave in November 2021… as we weren't the only ones in the proverbial dark about this.
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While it appears that Netflix Games (as the gaming branch of the streaming platform is called) first launched with five mobile games inspired by Squid Games (what else?) and Stranger Things together with 1984, Teeter Up and Shooting Hoops and Card Games. Since then, there have been several developments themed around Netflix shows, including a Too Hot To Handle 2 game.
Anyway, let's move on to why this little-known function of Netflix has resurfaced. Now, there's a brand new offering called “Netflix Stories” which seeks to offer a different gaming experience altogether. In a statement to BBC News about the expansion of Netflix's gaming offering, Leanne Loombe, vice president of external games at Netflix, said: "Games are one of the biggest forms of entertainment out there today, so it really is just a natural extension for Netflix to include them as part of the subscription.
"The lines between the different ways we enjoy our entertainment are blurring. When you're in that moment, looking to sit and watch a movie or be more active and play a game, we want to make sure we have something for you. Our goal is to have a game on the service for everyone. Not focus on making one big experience, but rather a selection of titles that members can choose to play."
These are a series of what's known as “narrative games” where players can get involved in an interactive narrative experience as an active participant
One of the first of Netflix's new stories is the Love is Blind game. It will launch on 19 September – shortly ahead of the Love is Blind season 5 launch on 22 September. In the meantime, you can watch a trailer below.
According to American technology site The Verge, further Netflix Stories releases in the works are game versions of Money Heist and Virgin River – so keep your eyes peeled for those releases.
Netflix will also be launching a designated app for you to enjoy the games – which may well aid the slightly confusing user experience of up until now. Let the games begin!
