Netflix pushing Video Game Development through GenAI

Netflix is actively advancing its video game development efforts by leveraging generative AI (GenAI) technology.

Netflix, known for its streaming content, has been expanding into the gaming sector to diversify its entertainment portfolio and capitalize on the fast-growing market. Last month, Netflix announced closing of its AAA studio Team Blue, as the company decided to invest in AI to create future projects.

Mike Verdue, Vice President of Generative AI for Gaming at Netflix, wrote on his LinkedIn page stating, “At long last, I am ready to talk about what I’m doing next: I am working on driving a “once in a generation” inflection point for game development and player experiences using generative AI. This transformational technology will accelerate the velocity of development and unlock truly novel game experiences that will surprise, delight, and inspire players.”

Mike Verdu also said that generative AI is a new opportunity not only for Netflix but for the entire industry. He noted that this technology has a lot of potential and that players will benefit from such changes. At the same time, users in the comments were not too happy with such changes in the company, which recently closed an entire studio and laid off employees. Verdu himself says to ignore the speculation around him.

By embracing GenAI, Netflix can reduce production timelines and costs, especially for games requiring rich environments and detailed graphics, without sacrificing quality. This push could enable Netflix to attract new users, engage current subscribers, and tap into the broader gaming community, positioning it as a unique contender in both streaming and gaming industries.