Netflix: Kids Uninterested in Consoles, Dream Beyond PlayStation 6

Netflix’s President of Games, Alain Tascan, recently shared his perspective on the evolving landscape of video gaming, suggesting that future generations may place less emphasis on traditional gaming consoles. As industry giants like Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo continue to develop next-generation hardware, Tascan believes the tides are shifting toward a more platform-agnostic approach to gaming.

During an interview with *The Game Business* following a Netflix presentation in San Francisco, Tascan was asked whether the streaming giant had plans to enter the console market. His response highlighted a growing trend he sees among younger players: a detachment from the idea of owning dedicated gaming hardware.

“Look at the younger generation. Are eight-year-olds and ten-year-olds dreaming of owning a PlayStation 6? I’m not sure,” he said. “They want to interact with any digital screen, wherever it is—even in the car. With consoles, you’re thinking about high definition, controllers… If we stick to this older model, I think it will restrain us.”

Despite his forward-looking stance, Tascan admitted a fondness for traditional console gaming. He specifically praised Nintendo’s Wii as a standout example of innovation and noted his extensive background working at major studios like EA, Ubisoft, and Epic Games. However, at Netflix, the direction is clear: convenience, accessibility, and removing barriers to play take precedence.

Netflix has already seen success with mobile-first game adaptations tied to its popular IPs, including *Stranger Things 3: The Game*, *Too Hot to Handle: Love Is a Game*, and even notable third-party titles like *Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – The Definitive Edition*. These games can be played directly from a mobile device, aligning perfectly with Tascan’s vision of frictionless gameplay experiences.

“I am very vigorous about lowering friction and eliminating it if we can,” he explained. “I see that the subscription is friction as well—maybe good friction because it makes business sense—but still, we did the test of eliminating subscription for *Squid Game: Unleashed*. And we may do other tests.”

Tascan also pointed out several common obstacles associated with traditional gaming—from the need for multiple controllers and expensive hardware to lengthy download times. By addressing these pain points, Netflix aims to create a seamless, family-friendly gaming environment that fits naturally into its existing ecosystem.

Looking back, Netflix reported in early 2024 that user engagement with its games had tripled throughout 2023, signaling a renewed commitment to expanding its gaming portfolio. This comes after a rocky start in 2021, when reports suggested fewer than 1% of subscribers were accessing the service's games. However, recent developments—including strategic studio closures such as its shuttered AAA team and cuts at Night School Studio—suggest a recalibration rather than retreat.

While Netflix continues to pivot toward a console-free future, the broader gaming industry remains committed to next-gen hardware. Sony and Microsoft are expected to unveil successors to their current consoles, while Nintendo prepares to reveal its long-rumored Switch 2 during an upcoming Direct presentation. Fans eagerly await details on its features, release date, and pre-order availability.