Netflix ventured into the gaming industry three years ago, but its customers have not shown much interest in its alternative entertainment option.
Only about 1 percent of Netflix users play the games that the streaming giant offers for free. Many of them do not even know that Netflix has a rich collection of mobile games that they can enjoy on their Android or iOS devices.
These games are free of charge and do not have any ads or in-app purchases. But this might not last for long, as Netflix is exploring ways to make money from its gaming segment, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Sources close to Netflix’s plans say that executives have been discussing how to generate revenue from its mobile games. The options include in-app purchases or charging for premium games, as well as offering games with ads for subscribers of its ad-supported plan.
Netflix has been opposed to any form of monetization for its mobile games so far, just like it was lenient with subscribers sharing their passwords with others.
But these are only talks that may not materialize, as Netflix is constantly looking for new ways to increase its income at the cost of its customers. The crackdown on password sharing is a good example of how Netflix changed its stance.
If Netflix decides to introduce ads or in-app purchases in its games, it could spell doom for its gaming venture before it gains popularity.