Did you know that Netflix is not just for streaming movies and shows anymore? The streaming service has started adding fun and engaging mobile games to its library, and now you can even play them on your TV. Netflix is expanding into the gaming industry by introducing games on TV, offering a unique combination of streaming and gaming experiences. This article delves into the world of Netflix games on TV, specifically designed for tech enthusiasts, mobile device users, and owners of smart devices.
Leveling Up Your Netflix Game Night
The Setup
Playing Netflix games on your TV requires a few things:
- A compatible TV: Currently, only select 2022 or newer TVs support Netflix Games.
- A smartphone or tablet: You’ll use this as your controller.
- The Netflix app: Make sure it’s updated on both your TV and your mobile device.
- The Netflix Game Controller app: Download this on your iPhone or iPad. Android users can use the regular Netflix app as a controller.
Steps to Play
- Open Netflix on your TV. Find the “Games” row and choose your game.
- Select “Play Game” on your TV. A QR code will appear on the screen.
- Open the camera app on your phone or tablet. Scan the QR code.
- Follow the prompts to download the Netflix Game Controller app (iOS) or open the Netflix app (Android).
- Sign in to your Netflix account on your phone or tablet.
- Scan the QR code again. Your device is now your controller!
- Start playing!
Supported Devices
| Device Type | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Amazon Fire TV Streaming Media Players | Select 2022 and newer models |
| Chromecast with Google TV | 2020 and newer models |
| LG TVs | Select 2022 and newer models |
| Nvidia Shield TV | All models |
| Roku devices | Select 2022 and newer models |
| Samsung Smart TVs | Select 2022 and newer models |
| Walmart ONN | 2022 and newer models |
Important Notes
- Not all TVs are supported yet. Check Netflix’s official list for the latest compatible models.
- You need a Netflix subscription to play.
- Only one mobile device can be used as a controller at a time.
- Some games may require specific device capabilities.
Netflix Games on TV
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Availability | Limited beta test currently available in Canada, UK, and select US regions |
| Devices | Select TVs from Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, LG, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku, Samsung, Xfinity 4K, Xumo |
| Games | Currently limited to Oxenfree and Molehew’s Mining Adventure, with more to be added |
| Controller | Uses your smartphone as a controller via the Netflix Game Controller app (Android) or a separate app (iOS) |
| Access | Look for a “Games” row or tab within the Netflix app on your TV |
| Beta status | This is a limited test to gather feedback and improve the experience before wider launch |
Additional notes:
- You need to be a Netflix subscriber and be selected for the beta to participate.
- Not all devices within the supported brands are guaranteed to work.
- Performance and compatibility may vary depending on your internet connection and hardware.
- More games and features are expected to be added in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Netflix games are now playable on various TV platforms.
- A range of games, from casual to narrative-driven, is available.
- Compatible devices include smart TVs and streaming media players.
Games Currently Available (2024)
Source: Netflix.com
Action
| Death’s Door | Become a crow who reaps souls. It’s a dead-end job, but when a thief steals your work, you set off on a sword-slashing quest to unearth death’s secrets. |
| Dust & Neon | Load ’em up, Gunslinger. Find the loot, kill the boss. You’re a Wild West cyborg fighting an army of robots in this futuristic, action-packed shooter. |
| Grand Theft Auto: III | You have the freedom to go anywhere and jack anyone. In this classic, the criminal underworld is at your fingertips. Do you have the guts to take it?NOTE: Not available on iPhone or iPad in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Maldives, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates. |
| Grand Theft Auto: Vice City | Welcome to the ’80s. In a neon-soaked tropical town brimming with excess and possibility, the price of betrayal is steep — it’s time to get revenge.NOTE: Not available on iPhone or iPad in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Maldives, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates. |
| Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas | Take control of the streets. Return to your hometown to save your family and clear your name in this ’90s West Coast adventure.NOTE: Not available on iPhone or iPad in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Maldives, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates. |
| Hextech Mayhem: A League of Legends Story | It’s a battle between inventor and destroyer in this fast-paced rhythm runner, featuring League of Legends stars Ziggs and Heimerdinger. Bombs away! |
| Into the Dead 2: Unleashed | Do whatever it takes to save your family and survive the zombie apocalypse in this ultimate action shooter! How far will you go to make it out alive? |
| Poinpy | Bounce up, dodge adorable baddies and feed the blue beast that’s hot on your heels. A vertical climber from the creator of the award-winning Downwell. |
| Relic Hunters: Rebels | Shoot and dash through colorful levels while crafting and upgrading dozens of weapons. Defeat the Ducan Empire and bring peace to a divided planet. |
| Rival Pirates | Make ’em walk the plank! Set sail, fire cannon balls and be the last boat standing among your enemies in this swashbuckling adventure. |
| TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge | Kick shell with Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo or other familiar friends in this totally tubular ’80s-inspired beat ’em up. Cowabunga! |
| Tomb Raider Reloaded | You’re Lara Croft. Discover ancient relics, dodge hidden traps and wield her iconic twin pistols against fierce enemies in this globe-trotting adventure. |
Adventure
| Before Your Eyes | Embark on an emotional first-person adventure where you control the story — and affect the outcome — with your real-life blinks. |
| Dead Cells | You’re a pile of undead sludge. Find a body, uncover secrets and defeat bosses to escape a deserted castle. If you fail? No problem – restart and reignite the fight. |
| Dragon Up | Hatch and collect rare dragons — then help them revive their magic in this colorful and beautifully animated idle adventure game. |
| Highwater | It’s the end of the world. The ultra-rich might be headed to Mars. Explore a flooded planet, discover islands and find allies — can you escape in time? |
| Kentucky Route Zero | Unpayable debts. Abandoned futures. Mysterious travelers. Journey down a secret underground highway to find community in this mystical adventure game. |
| Laya’s Horizon | Master the art of flying. Dive off mountains, weave across forests and glide over rivers to unlock new abilities as you explore a vast, peaceful world. |
| LEGO Legacy: Heroes Unboxed | Captain Redbeard, Princess Storm or Hot Dog Man? Assemble a dream team of minifigures to explore, battle enemies and build sets in this adventure game. |
| Lucky Luna | Guide Luna through hidden dungeons and mythical temples to unlock the secrets of her past in this platformer inspired by Japanese folklore. |
| OXENFREE | A fun night partying takes a supernatural turn for the teens of Camena High. Unlock the mysteries of a ghostly rift in this choice-driven thriller. |
| OXENFREE II: Lost Signals | Shadowy cult members. Ghostly radio signals. Spacetime portals. Investigate a dark new mystery in this interactive story game set in a familiar world. |
| Raji: An Ancient Epic | You’re chosen by the gods. Fight demons, climb ruins and face destiny to save the human race in this lush action-adventure inspired by Indian culture. |
| Scriptic: Crime Stories | Find clues. Catch a killer. You’re the lead detective in this crime drama, and the victim’s cell phone — ripe with evidence — is hot in your hands. |
| Stranger Things: 1984 | Join Hopper and the kids for bruising missions around Hawkins — and the Upside Down — in this stylized retro adventure filled with collectibles. |
| Stranger Things 3: The Game | Fight your way through a pixelated Hawkins as 12 playable characters from Stranger Things 3. Team up with a pal or dare to enter the Upside Down solo. |
| This is a True Story | Explore a beautiful hand-painted landscape in this lush narrative puzzle game that’s based on actual events and interviews. |
| Twelve Minutes | Tap and drag to escape a time-loop nightmare. This interactive thriller features the voices of James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley and Willem Dafoe. |
| Valiant Hearts: Coming Home | Become an unsung hero. Solve puzzles, fly above chaos and heal the wounded in this follow-up to the beloved adventure game inspired by World War I. |
Arcade
| Bloons TD 6 | Sharpen those darts! Defend Monkey Towers from an ever-flowing stream of colorful invading balloons. As you pop, more new abilities and heroes unlock. |
| Bowling Ballers | In most endless runners, you want to avoid objects. Bor-ing! Play Bowling Ballers and knock down as many of those pesky pins as possible. |
| Shooting Hoops | A basketball with a dart gun attached? Sure, why not? Fire the darts in the right direction to push the ball through the hoop. |
| Skies of Chaos | Jump into the cockpit and face off against an evil empire in this colorful, arcade-style shoot ’em up. You’re the resistance’s last hope! |
| Sonic Prime Dash | Zip through 3D race courses, jump over obstacles and battle iconic villains in this high-octane running game featuring the world’s fastest blue hedgehog. |
| Teeter (Up) Remastered | Your mission: Raise and lower a platform to guide a ball into a hole. No dragons, no monsters. Your only enemies are gravity and the laws of physics. |
| World of Goo Remastered | They’re squirmy and curious! Drag and drop living Goo Balls to build everything from bridges to giant tongues in this physics-based puzzle game. |
Card
| Arcanium: Rise of Akhan | Choose your heroes and embark upon an epic quest to save the world of Arzu in this open-world, roguelike strategy card game. |
| Card Blast | Create a winning hand — maybe even score a full house — in this poker experience that’s perfect for the casual player. |
| Exploding Kittens | Bring the catnip. Draw as many cards as you can, and do your best to dodge — or defuse — fatal felines. Or else, boom goes the dynamite! |
Educational
| CoComelon: Play with JJ | Explore JJ’s house for a fun playdate! Learn shapes and numbers, earn stickers, even sing along to familiar songs in this game based on the series. |
Music
| Hello Kitty and Friends: Happiness Parade | Create a grand spectacle with Hello Kitty and friends. Make new allies and lean on your abilities to avoid traps that can rain on your parade! |
Party
| Heads Up! | Play the smash hit charades game. Now with decks based on your favorite Netflix titles. Grab some friends and let the fun begin! |
| Nailed It! Baking Bash | Calling all home bakers! Host a party for your pals to see who creates the best-looking – or worst-looking – cakes in this game based on the hit series. |
Puzzle
| Cut The Rope Daily | Solve one new logic puzzle every day to keep your streak alive. Cut ropes and pop balloons to feed cute green monster Om Nom, who’s craving a candy fix! |
| Ghost Detective | You’re a detective who’s been killed on the job. Now as a ghost, your mission is clear: Find hidden objects and solve puzzles to catch your own murderer. |
| Knittens | No cat likes to look dowdy, darling! Help felines look their best by mastering this match-3 puzzler that transforms yarn into stylish outfits. |
| Krispee Street | Based on the popular webcomic, this emotional (in a good way!) hidden object game features hundreds of quirky characters and items to seek and find. |
| Puzzle Gods | Match and switch elements to level up, defeat Little Hades and rescue the gods in this mythic puzzler. The Land of Olympus needs you! |
| Shatter Remastered | Shatter Remastered is a retro-inspired brick-breaking game that combines classic action with unique twists and incredible boss battles. |
| Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon | You’ve been sucked into a puzzle dimension! Battle foes, collect relics and match blocks to save friends and escape in this genre-bending spinoff. |
| Slayaway Camp 2: Netflix & Kill | Leave no survivors. In this sequel, you’re Skullface, a killer stuck inside a retro horror movie catalog — solve puzzles, stalk victims and get stabby. |
| Storyteller | Once upon a time — wait, what comes next again? Drag and drop fairy-tale characters onto the page to build surprising stories in this puzzle game. |
| Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales | Battle the Demogorgon, embark on mysterious quests, collect characters and discover new storylines in this Hawkins-inspired stylized adventure game. |
| Wild Things: Animal Adventures | Rescue cute animals, explore an immersive world, and build your dream habitat in this colorful match-3 adventure game. |
| Word Trails | Connect scrambled letters to create words that fit into a crossword-style puzzle. Solve daily challenges as you level up in this relaxing brain game. |
Racing
| Asphalt Xtreme | Charge through canyons, drift across dunes and rocket past your opponents in this extreme off-road racing experience. Forget everything you know about racing — all you need are your instincts and a fearless desire for speed. |
Role-Playing
| Dungeon Boss: Respawned | Battle. Explore. Defend. Summon a crew of mighty heroes to guard your dungeons, steal treasure and fight foes. Ready to prove who’s boss? |
| Dungeon Dwarves | Behold the ultimate idle dungeon crawler! Explore dungeons, vanquish monsters, and collect goodies to upgrade your warrior’s abilities and weapons. |
| Mighty Quest Rogue Palace | Hunt for epic loot. Battle big bosses. Slash through a mad maze, and prepare to restart — a lot. Come back stronger, save the kingdom. No pressure! |
| Moonlighter | By day, manage a shop in an idyllic village. By night, explore dungeons, slay monsters and unlock mysteries in this best-of-both-worlds adventure. |
| Shadow and Bone: Enter the Fold | Shape the fate of the Grishaverse. Travel war-torn Ravka and decide which powers prevail in this interactive adventure based on the fantasy series. |
| TRANSFORMERS Forged to Fight | Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and bots across the multiverse are in danger. Ready to build a team, shore up defenses and fight epic battles? Roll out!NOTE: Not available in Japan or Korea |
Simulation
| Cats & Soup | Hungry for cuteness? Help cats boil soup to their hearts’ content in this cozy delight — stir and chop ingredients, dress ’em up and more. Blurp, blurp. |
| Country Friends | Build the farm of your dreams — by yourself or with friends! Ditch city life to grow crops, feed animals and trade goods in this sunny adventure. |
| Farming Simulator 23 | Run a rustic virtual farm your way. Plant crops, tend livestock and manage production until your agricultural empire flourishes in this soothing game. |
| Flutter Butterflies | Discover and raise butterflies in a peaceful habitat. Decorate your forest to attract, nurture and collect hundreds of real-life species. |
| Immortality | A starlet, vanished. Her films, unreleased. Investigate the lost works of the silver-screen hopeful to unlock the secrets behind her disappearance. |
| Netflix Stories: Love is Blind | You’re the main character in these interactive story games based on Netflix’s hit shows and films. Romance, drama, intrigue — which fate will you choose? |
| Spiritfarer | You’re a ferrymaster to the great beyond. Build a boat to explore, then care for spirits before releasing them into the afterlife in this moving game. |
| SpongeBob: Get Cooking | Fire up the grill! Delight customers by serving up delicious dishes in Bikini Bottom’s restaurants in this culinary adventure based on the series. |
| Too Hot to Handle: Love Is a Game | Mix and mingle with sexy singles competing for your affection in this game based on the hit series. Will you go for love or give into temptation? |
| Too Hot To Handle 2 | More choices, bigger drama. Change your look and make a play: true love or hot hook up? Risk it all in the next season of this interactive story game. |
| Townsmen: A Kingdom Rebuilt | Build a medieval city, make smart financial decisions and do whatever it takes to keep your people happy. Who knew running a kingdom was so tough? |
| Vineyard Valley | Restore a run-down vineyard to its former glory. Complete quests, solve puzzles and unlock past mysteries to design the romantic resort of your dreams. |
Sports
| Football Manager 2024 | You’re the boss of an elite soccer team. Build a dream squad of real-life stars or coach new talent and lead them to victory in this management game.NOTE: Not available in Brazil |
| Wonderputt Forever | Windmills, schwindmills! Play a mini-golf game where bizarre and beautifully constructed courses shift and evolve before your eyes. |
Strategy
| Desta: The Memories Between | Fall into the dreamscape. Relive memories, rediscover friends and repair relationships in this turn-based exploration through surreal worlds. |
| Into the Breach | Civilization is in peril, and it’s up to you to defend it. Lead a team to save the world from alien threats in this turn-based strategy game. |
| Narcos: Cartel Wars Unlimited | Build your empire. Gain power. Destroy your enemies. Lead your own cartel in this strategy game based on the hit series. |
| Reigns: Three Kingdoms | Swipe through military negotiations, marry to strengthen alliances and recruit soldiers to fight in turn-based card battles in this historical epic. |
| Terra Nil | Revitalize a barren wasteland. Plant sprawling forests, purify soil and clean polluted oceans to turn a ravaged environment into an ecological paradise. |
| Vikings: Valhalla | Earn your place among the gods in this strategy game based on the hit series. Build your settlement and lead raids against rivals to become a legend. |
Tabletop
| Dominoes Café | Settle in for a relaxing game of dominoes with a variety of realistic challenges in one-on-one or two-on-two contests. |
| Mahjong Solitaire | Enjoy hundreds of tile-matching puzzles. Equip themes and backgrounds, including Stranger Things ones, to change the game’s look and feel. |
| Solitaire | Drag cards to arrange them in descending order with alternating colors. Sort all the suits from ace to king — it’s the timeless game you know and love. |
| The Queen’s Gambit Chess | Welcome to Beth Harmon’s world. Take some lessons, play puzzles and matches or compete against friends in this stunning love letter to the show. |
Netflix’s Gaming Evolution: From Mobile to TV Screens
Netflix’s journey into gaming began with mobile games, but it has now expanded to TV screens. This move signifies a strategic shift in Netflix’s approach to entertainment, aiming to become a one-stop destination for all forms of digital amusement.
How to Access Netflix Games on Your TV
Accessing Netflix games on your TV is straightforward. If you’re in a region where the TV gaming feature is available, you can easily find the games section within the Netflix app on your supported streaming device or smart TV. For a detailed guide, check out Pocket-lint’s article on playing Netflix games on TV.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Netflix Games
Step 1: Check Your Subscription and Device Compatibility
First, ensure that your Netflix subscription is active. Netflix games are included in all membership plans, so there’s no need for an additional subscription. Next, verify that your TV or streaming device is compatible with Netflix games. Supported devices include various smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, and more.
Step 2: Update Your Netflix App
Make sure your Netflix app is up to date. An outdated app might not show the games section or support the latest games. You can update the app through your TV’s app store or the respective service platform.
Step 3: Navigate to the Games Section
Open the Netflix app on your TV or streaming device. Look for a dedicated games section within the app. This is where you’ll find all the available games. If you don’t see a games section, the feature might not be available in your region or on your specific device yet.
Step 4: Select a Game
Browse through the selection of games. Netflix offers a variety of games, from casual to more immersive experiences. Select a game that interests you. Each game will have a brief description and age rating to help you decide.
Step 5: Download and Install the Game
Once you’ve chosen a game, select it to download. The game will install automatically on your device. Remember, you might need a stable internet connection for a smooth download and installation process.
Step 6: Launch and Play
After installation, the game will be available to play. Launch the game directly from the Netflix app. Some games might require additional permissions or access to certain features on your device for the first time.
Step 7: Enjoy Gaming
You’re all set! Enjoy playing the game on your TV. The controls and gameplay will vary depending on the game, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with them.
Additional Tips for a Better Gaming Experience
- Use a Compatible Controller: Some games might offer a better experience with a game controller. Check if your game supports controller use and pair a compatible controller with your TV or streaming device.
- Optimize Your TV Settings: Adjust your TV settings for gaming. This might include changing the picture mode to ‘Game Mode’ for reduced latency.
- Check for Regular Updates: Keep your Netflix app and games updated. Regular updates can bring new features, bug fixes, and improved performance.
Playing Netflix games on your TV is a straightforward process that adds an exciting dimension to your entertainment options. With these steps, you’re ready to explore the world of gaming that Netflix offers, right from the comfort of your living room.
The Range of Games Available
Netflix offers a variety of games, catering to different interests and age groups. From casual games perfect for quick sessions to more immersive narrative experiences, there’s something for everyone. For a comprehensive list of the best Netflix games, refer to PCMag’s selection.
Compatible Devices: Bringing Games to Every Screen
The compatibility of devices for Netflix games is a crucial aspect of this new venture. Netflix games on TV are accessible on a range of devices, including:
- Amazon Fire TV
- Chromecast with Google TV
- LG Smart TVs
- Nvidia Shield TV
- Roku devices and TVs
- Samsung Smart TVs
- Walmart ONN devices
A Closer Look at Popular Netflix Games
Netflix’s gaming library includes titles that have garnered attention for their engaging gameplay and compelling narratives. Some of the standout games include:
- Oxenfree: A supernatural thriller with a gripping story.
- Stranger Things: 1984: An adventure game based on the popular TV series.
- Into the Breach: A strategy game with challenging puzzles.
For a deeper dive into Netflix’s gaming library, check out Netflix Tudum’s article.
The Future of Gaming on Netflix
The future of gaming on Netflix looks promising, with plans to expand the library and improve accessibility. Netflix’s venture into gaming is not just about adding games to its platform but also about integrating gaming into its core streaming service, creating a seamless experience for users.
YouTube Insights on Netflix Games
For a visual perspective on Netflix games, these YouTube videos provide valuable insights:
- “Netflix Games Are Actually Good, Here’s How To Play Them” – Watch on YouTube
- “15 Netflix Games ACTUALLY Worth Playing” – Watch on YouTube
- “Games 2022 Year-End Recap | Surprise Game Release | Netflix” – Watch on YouTube
Enhancing Your Gaming Experience
To get the most out of Netflix games on your TV, it’s essential to have the right setup. This includes a reliable internet connection, a compatible device, and an optimal viewing environment.
Netflix Games: A Step Towards Diversified Entertainment
Netflix’s foray into gaming represents a significant step towards diversifying its entertainment offerings. By combining streaming and gaming, Netflix is positioning itself as a comprehensive digital entertainment platform. This move not only enhances the value of a Netflix subscription but also sets a new standard in the entertainment industry.
Table: Netflix Games Compatibility and Availability
| Device Type | Compatibility | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Smart TVs | High | Select Models |
| Streaming Media Players | Moderate | Widely Available |
| Mobile Devices | High | Global Access |
Real-World Applications and Impact
Imagine settling down for an evening, remote in hand, ready to dive into your favorite Netflix series. But this time, instead of just watching, you’re also playing a game based on the series, right on your TV. This scenario is no longer a futuristic dream but a reality with Netflix games on TV.
Enhancing Family Game Nights
Netflix games on TV could transform family game nights. With games like “Stranger Things: 1984” and “Heads Up!”, families can enjoy interactive gaming experiences together, fostering bonding and creating memorable moments.
Implications for Smart Device Integration
The integration of gaming into Netflix’s platform also signifies a leap in smart device functionality. Smart TVs and streaming devices are no longer just for passive viewing but are becoming comprehensive entertainment hubs. This integration enhances the value of smart devices in our homes, making them central to our leisure time.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
Netflix’s venture into gaming could also shake up the gaming industry. By offering games as part of its subscription service, Netflix is making gaming more accessible, potentially attracting a new audience to the gaming world. This move could encourage other streaming services to follow suit, leading to a more integrated entertainment experience across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Access Netflix Games on My TV?
Accessing Netflix games on your TV is simple. If your TV or streaming device supports Netflix, navigate to the games section within the Netflix app to find and play games.
What Devices Support Netflix Games?
Netflix games are supported on various devices, including smart TVs from LG, Samsung, and others, as well as streaming devices like Amazon Fire TV and Chromecast with Google TV.
Are Netflix Games Free with the Subscription?
Yes, Netflix games are included in your Netflix subscription at no extra cost.
Can I Play Netflix Games on My PC or Mac?
Currently, Netflix games are primarily designed for mobile and TV platforms. However, future expansions may include PC and Mac compatibility.
Table: Popular Netflix Games and Their Genres
| Game Title | Genre | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oxenfree | Adventure | A supernatural thriller with a gripping narrative |
| Stranger Things: 1984 | Action | Explore the world of Stranger Things in a retro-style game |
| Into the Breach | Strategy | A challenging puzzle game with futuristic mechs |
Looking Ahead: The Future of Interactive Entertainment
Netflix’s foray into gaming on TV is more than just an addition to its service; it’s a bold step towards a new era of interactive entertainment. As we look ahead, we can expect to see more innovations in this space, with streaming services blurring the lines between watching and playing. This integration could lead to more immersive experiences, where viewers are not just passive consumers but active participants in the stories unfolding on their screens.
