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In 2013, Netflix stated that they want to “become HBO before HBO becomes [Netflix].” This shows that Netflix knew that they have to take away viewership from traditional cable before HBO can start operating as an online live-streaming platform. Years later, Netflix's ahead of HBO so far. But Netflix knows that they need to remain on top of the curve to continue experiencing the lead they have. This time, it isn't HBO that they're looking to beat. This time, it's Fortnite.
Netflix said so as much in 2019, where they lamented “We compete with (and lose to) Fortnite more than HBO . . . There are thousands of competitors in this highly fragmented market vying to entertain consumers.” While Netflix mostly kept to their strong points – continuing to provide high-quality live streaming service for films and series, it seems like they're ready to embark on a new path in their bid to beat Fortnite.
Netflix may enter gaming and compete with Fortnite – posts job listing for a ‘gaming executive'
The Information reports that Netflix may soon be diving deeper into gaming. This is because while they successfully get eyeballs to watch their shows, there are still more eyeballs too busy playing video games like Fortnite to watch movies. Hence, Netflix has been approaching veterans and executives from the gaming industry, hoping they could have them join in on their plans. Will Netflix start producing their own games now?
No. While Netflix has dabbled in games before – they produced a Stranger Things game with an outsourced developer – The Information reports that they seem more interested in gaming library subscription services, similar to Apple Arcade.
Responding to reports, Netflix didn't exactly reveal what they have in mind. Instead, they expressed how excited they feel about delving deeper into gaming. A spokesperson told GamesRadar+,
“Our members value the variety and quality of our content. It’s why we’ve continually expanded our offering – from series to documentaries, film, local language originals and reality TV. Members also enjoy engaging more directly with stories they love – through interactive shows like Bandersnatch and You v. Wild, or games based on Stranger Things, La Casa de Papel, and To All the Boys.”
While we're not sure yet if Netflix will be directly competing with Fortnite, we're now sure that they really do plan on getting into gaming. Will they be able to overtake Fortnite the way they did HBO? Only time will tell.
