Netflix: Kids Uninterested in Consoles, Dream Beyond PlayStation 6

Netflix's President of Games, Alain Tascan, envisions a future where the next generation of gamers may not be as fixated on traditional gaming consoles. As industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to innovate with new hardware, Tascan shared his perspective on the evolving gaming landscape during an interview with The Game Business following a Netflix presentation in San Francisco.

When asked about Netflix's potential foray into console gaming, Tascan expressed skepticism about the younger generation's interest in future consoles like the PlayStation 6. He noted, "Look at the younger generation. Are eight year-olds and ten year-olds dreaming of owning a PlayStation 6? I am not sure." Tascan emphasized a shift towards platform-agnostic gaming, where kids are more interested in interacting with any digital screen, regardless of the device or location, including in cars.

Despite his fondness for console gaming, particularly citing Nintendo's Wii as a favorite, Tascan's experience at major studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games informs his view that the traditional console model may limit Netflix's approach. The company is instead focusing on mobile gaming, allowing subscribers to play games directly from their phones. This strategy aligns with Netflix's development of party games and its goal to become a hub for kids and gaming families.

Tascan is committed to reducing barriers to gaming, stating, "I am very vigorous about lowering friction and eliminating it if we can." He highlighted various forms of friction, such as subscription models, the need for multiple controllers, the cost of hardware, and download times, all of which he aims to minimize.

Netflix's engagement with gaming has seen significant growth, with game engagement tripling in 2023. However, the company has also faced challenges, including scaling back its gaming ambitions by closing its AAA studio and making cuts at Night School Studio, which it acquired in 2021.

As Netflix continues to target a market less interested in traditional consoles, major players like Sony and Microsoft are expected to release next-generation consoles such as the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox. Meanwhile, Nintendo is on the cusp of unveiling its Switch 2, with a dedicated Direct presentation scheduled for next week, where fans eagerly await details on features, release dates, and pre-order information.

Netflix says kids don't care about consoles. Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images.