Netflix Explores Licensing Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto and Developing its Own Games

According to anonymous sources, Netflix is in talks with Rockstar, the developers of Grand Theft Auto, to license the popular video game franchise for release on the streaming service. This move is part of Netflix’s strategy to bring “higher-end” titles to its growing catalog of video games.

In addition to Grand Theft Auto, Netflix is reportedly discussing licensing other prominent names from the gaming industry to expand its own stable of studios. The company has already acquired Night School Studio, Spry Fox, and Next Games, the developers behind Oxenfree, Cozy Grove, and Stranger Things ‘puzzle RPG’ Puzzle Tales, respectively.

It is unclear whether the licensed GTA game would be a brand new title or a streaming version of an existing game, such as the spin-off Chinatown Wars. However, the sources revealed that Netflix is also considering adapting its own properties, including popular shows like Black Mirror and movies like Extraction, into video games.

Currently, less than one percent of Netflix subscribers play games daily, but the number of game downloads has more than doubled over the past year, reaching 70.5 million according to data trackers Apptopia. Netflix already offers a library of downloadable games with over 70 titles, including notable games like Kentucky Route Zero, Immortality, Oxenfree 2, and Terra Nil. However, the challenge lies in convincing users that these games are worth playing, especially on mobile screens.

To strengthen its gaming capabilities, Netflix has been acquiring existing studios and has also established its own studio under the leadership of former Overwatch executive producer Chacko Sonny. The company is currently working on a triple-A PC game, with hints that it will be a shooter built in Unreal Engine.

Furthermore, Netflix has been experimenting with game streaming on PC and mobile, in addition to offering games for download. The company is testing game streaming via TV and PC using devices like Chromecast and browsers. The trial is currently in beta, with a limited rollout in the UK and Canada.

Netflix’s entry into the gaming industry marks its ambition to diversify its content offerings and attract more subscribers. By licensing popular games and developing its own titles, Netflix aims to tap into the lucrative gaming market and provide a unique entertainment experience for its users.