Remember a few years ago when Netflix dipped its toes into the world of video games by creating interactive choose-your-own-adventure movies and TV shows? Well, almost all of those odd experiments are being removed from the service with little warning next month.
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In 2017, Netflix launched its first interactive short film, Puss In Book. But most people didn’t really start paying attention to the streamer’s interactive output until 2018’s critically panned Black Mirror special: Bandersnatch. The tech behind these early choose-your-own-adventure-like productions was then used to create about 20 or so different shows and movies, including ones based on Jurassic World, Carmen San Diego, and Boss Baby. And almost all of those interactive titles will be removed from Netflix on December 2.
On November 5, The Verge confirmed with Netflix that 20 of the 24 previously produced interactive specials and shows would not be available to watch after December 1. The only four that will be left on the service after the purge will be the already mentioned Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, as well as Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend, Ranveer vs. Wild with Bear Grylls, and You vs. Wild.
“The technology served its purpose, but is now limiting as we focus on technological efforts in other areas,” a Netflix spokesperson told The Verge.
It’s not too surprising that Netflix is removing these interactive specials from the service. In January, it was confirmed by Netflix’s gaming boss Mike Verdu that the company was no longer making interactive titles anymore. Also, that Puss In Book interactive special from 2017 was seemingly removed months ago without many people noticing.
Meanwhile, Netflix is also backing away from video game production after spending a lot of money and time trying to break into the industry. In late October, Netflix quietly shut down its big AAA game studio, Team Blue, after just two years and with nothing to show. And after laying off those developers, Netflix is now—just days later—touting its plans to use generative AI to create games. I can’t wait for Netflix to give up on that plan in a year or two, lay off more people, and try another pivot to games.
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Netflix Interactive Shows Removal: A Closer Look
As the digital landscape evolves, streaming giant Netflix has decided to remove a significant portion of its interactive shows and movies. Let’s delve into the details of this decision and its implications.
The Rise and Fall of Netflix’s Interactive Content
Netflix ventured into the realm of interactive entertainment a few years ago, introducing choose-your-own-adventure experiences that allowed viewers to control the narrative. This innovative approach garnered attention with releases like “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch” and “Puss In Book.” However, Netflix has now announced the removal of nearly all interactive titles from its platform.
Impending Removal of Interactive Titles
According to reports from The Verge, Netflix will be eliminating 20 out of the 24 interactive specials and shows by December 1, leaving only a handful of titles accessible to viewers. This move signifies a shift in focus for Netflix, as the company aims to explore new technological avenues.
Reasons Behind the Removal
Netflix’s decision to discontinue interactive content aligns with statements from the company’s gaming division head, Mike Verdu, who confirmed the halt in interactive title production earlier this year. The removal of these shows reflects Netflix’s strategic realignment towards other areas of technological advancement.
Netflix’s Evolving Strategy
Apart from the removal of interactive shows, Netflix has also made significant changes in its gaming endeavors. The closure of Team Blue, the company’s AAA game studio, underscores Netflix’s shifting priorities in the gaming industry. With plans to leverage generative AI for game creation, Netflix continues to adapt its strategy in the digital entertainment landscape.
Conclusion
Netflix’s decision to remove interactive shows marks a transition towards new technological pursuits. As the streaming platform evolves, viewers can expect further innovations and strategic shifts in content offerings.
FAQs
Q: Why is Netflix removing interactive shows?
A: Netflix is discontinuing interactive shows to focus on other technological initiatives and strategic realignment.
Q: Which interactive titles will remain on Netflix?
A: Only a few interactive titles, such as “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch,” will be retained on the platform after the removal process.
Q: What does Netflix’s shift in gaming strategy entail?
A: Netflix’s closure of its AAA game studio and adoption of generative AI for game development signal a new direction in the company’s gaming endeavors.
Credit: kotaku.com
