Netflix Invests In Using AI To Build Games After Closing Down a Studio

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can’t help but feel a mix of intrigue and trepidation as I read about Netflix‘s latest move in the gaming world. The shutdown of ‘Blue’, their internal studio dedicated to game development, is certainly a bold step, especially considering the short lifespan of the studio and the lack of any released games.

In October, Netflix closed down their internal game development studio ‘Blue’, which specialized in creating games for their streaming service. This studio, headed by ex-Blizzard employees, aimed to produce AAA games, but unfortunately, before they could launch any titles and just a few months after a hiring boom, Netflix decided to close the studio instead.

Lately, Netflix’s achievements in the gaming realm have primarily stemmed from adapting games developed by other companies, such as the GTA Trilogy. Initially, Netflix expressed that it wasn’t abandoning the gaming sector, but recent developments suggest they are choosing an altogether distinct path instead.

‘Transformational Technology’

On LinkedIn, Mike Verdu, the recently appointed Vice President of GenAI for Games at Netflix, announced his new role and shared why he believes this position represents the future of gaming.

Finally, I’m prepared to discuss my upcoming projects: I am currently focusing on pushing a significant shift in the gaming world by employing advanced Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). This groundbreaking technology aims to speed up development processes exponentially while unveiling unique, captivating, and thought-provoking gaming experiences that will leave players amazed, thrilled, and inspired.

Verdu elaborated that GenAI signifies the upcoming hurdle in the journey towards tapping into its ‘boundless capabilities and swift rate of advancement.’ He regards generative AI as a powerful surge that’s poised to make a significant impact on the gaming sector, even though some perceive ‘this technology with apprehension’.

He also offered a harsh line against those doubting Netflix’s presence in the gaming space:

Ignore the misguided chatter in the press concerning Netflix’s gaming shift. The evolution you’ve witnessed over the past few months has been carefully orchestrated as part of our strategic plans.

Unfortunately for Verdu, his LinkedIn post attracted a wave of criticism regarding his business decision to close the studio and lay off workers to invest in GenAI. The reasoning behind this move doesn’t seem clear-cut to some people. In fact, similar situations have arisen over the past year or two, but they never become any easier to accept.

One user wrote:

I understand your attempt to address the concerns surrounding Netflix’s gaming division changes, but given the recent developments – such as the closure of Team Blue after two years without any game release, and the departures of key personnel like Chacko Sonny and Joseph Staten – a thorough examination seems warranted.

Other significant gaming companies, like Electronic Arts, have confidently voiced opinions regarding the impending role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in game development. There’s a growing consensus among industry leaders that AI could soon dominate a substantial portion of development tasks, which might seem alarming to those observing from the outside.

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