Squid Game: Unleashed is good for Netflix, but bad for indies

by

  • Netflix Games have made a bit of a splash by making Squid Game: Unleashed free for all
  • For a service usually reliant on indie games, what would a switch to more tie-ins mean?
  • Good, bad, and would it precipitate a change to Netflix’s gaming model?

It appears that when the topic of Netflix Games comes up in conversation, the common response is “Do they really have that?“. Even though Netflix boasts a substantial collection of excellent indie games and some tie-ins with their TV shows, they’ve consistently faced challenges in attracting attention to this little-known aspect of their subscription. Given this history, I wasn’t anticipating significant improvements as we moved from 2024 into 2025.

Netflix took an unexpected step when they declared that their latest spin-off, Squid Game: Unleashed, would be accessible for free, not just for subscribers but for everyone (at least for a limited period). They’ve also taken it a step further by organizing watch-along parties to motivate players to revisit season two and gather new in-game items.

It appears that Netflix Games could be an excellent choice. After all, it offers high-quality game releases on mobile devices, and many individuals are already subscribed to the service.

However, it does raise some concerns for me. It’s not a sleepless-nights kind of worry, but more of a thoughtful one, as this new approach seems to open up an unanticipated and less preferred pathway for Netflix’s gaming service. This is quite a departure from their traditional methods of distribution. If it proves successful or if such boldly linked content becomes the trend, there’s a possibility that it might disrupt what has been functioning smoothly behind the scenes so far.


Indierrific

Initially, let me clarify Netflix Games for those who might not be acquainted with it yet. Essentially, this service is part of the regular Netflix subscription package. With it, you can download a variety of excellent games straight onto your iOS or Android device. While there may be some games that are tied to popular franchises and some less-than-stellar releases, there are also many indie gems available too!

Today, we’re experiencing an unparalleled surge of indie games on mobile devices, which was once considered a challenging and unfavorable platform for anything other than phone-focused launches. For those who might not have the funds or the motivation to invest in gaming, Netflix offers access to popular titles like Into the Breach or Dead Cells as part of their service.

Netflix has frequently shown its prowess in the gaming sector by offering exceptional games that may otherwise struggle to find an audience or widespread release on mobile platforms. However, the introduction of Squid Game: Unleashed might signal a departure from the niche where indie games have thrived safely up until now.

IP domination

It’s important to clarify that while it may seem obvious, the main goal of Netflix Games appears to be enhancing the overall experience of the streaming platform. This includes attracting viewers, retaining their attention, and so on. Consequently, we can expect games linked to new movies and shows. For instance, the upcoming mobile version of Carmen Sandiego, which is based on a Netflix show, will be available before it hits consoles or PC.

Despite the fact that game streaming services often encounter familiar problems, as demonstrated by Netflix with titles like Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon, it’s reasonable to be skeptical about their ability to improve user discovery. After all, Netflix has had issues in the past making their service more accessible, potentially overlooking potential users. Given this history and the recent closure of their high-profile studio, there’s a possibility that they might opt for simpler solutions when it comes to bigger projects.

As a dedicated gamer who’s been along for the ride since the early days of Netflix, my apprehension is shared by many fans: Squid Game: Unleashed feels like a sign of things to come. It seems like a game created primarily to boost the popularity of the show, yet it’s grown so much that it risks overshadowing the indie games that have been the backbone of Netflix Games since their inception.

The game based on Squid Game, titled “Squid Game: Unleashed,” might appear straightforward, but its multiplayer format necessitates substantial backend support compared to single-player games. Consequently, unlike other tie-ins that have faded away, I believe Netflix might find it more beneficial to focus on fully exploring the potential of this game rather than maintaining a broad and diverse lineup, much like how Squid Game has endured.

Is it any good?

Frankly, while I’m no connoisseur of Squid Game: Unleashed or its source material, I did give it a spin for a bit. My take on it is similar to many others – it’s acceptable, yet doesn’t quite stand out in a crowd of fan adaptations. It didn’t exactly spark my desire to watch the show, but maybe that’s the point, and if so, mission accomplished.

If you’ve played games similar to Fall Guys or other collection-style mini-games, you’re likely familiar with the concept. Although it effectively conveys simplicity without causing confusion (especially for those who understand competition formats from TV shows), I must admit that the combination of a straightforward structure with typical abundance of virtual currency rewards and cosmetic items can be irritating at times.

The connection between Squid Games’ extensive promotional efforts and the show’s overarching themes is a topic of interest, and while it’s not unprecedented or especially problematic, there’s something jarring about transforming a deadly game into an enjoyable multiplayer experience.

But in fairness…

To be honest, I must admit that I’m taken aback Netflix didn’t exploit Squid Game’s potential earlier, given its popularity. However, upon reflection, it seems they may have needed other fan adaptations, such as the numerous versions on Roblox, to pave the way first.

In this scenario, it seems plausible to suggest that Squid Game: Unleashed might be an unexpected success, a unique spark in the dark where they found their pre-existing gaming platform and a concept ideally suited for a multiplayer death match party was finally realized. However, history has shown us that often just one fortunate occurrence can set off a chain of rapid changes.


What could change?

It seems unlikely that Netflix will suddenly remove all its well-liked independent shows. I’m confident that the most popular ones will stay on the platform. However, shows like Carmen Sandiego and Squid Game: Unleashed differ significantly from series such as Too Hot to Handle or Stranger Things in terms of production budget (using a simpler term).

For a while, services like Netflix have been facing turbulent times. Consequently, while I might’ve once wished they would maintain their ad-free service, the integration of ads into their programming indicates that the barrier has been decisively broken. The question now is not if changes will occur, but rather how extensive these alterations will be.

As a devoted Netflix fan, I can’t help but express my reservations about the potential increase in pricing for Netflix Games in the future. Frankly, I believe this could be a misstep. However, if they persist with their strategy of offering free tie-ins to new releases, I am convinced that it will significantly transform the landscape of a service that, up until now, has been quietly excelling in the background.

Read More

2025-01-09 15:18