Netflix Games Scraps Six Upcoming Indie Games From Their Roster Including Don’t Starve Together
Netflix recently made significant changes to its gaming lineup, removing six previously announced mobile games. This unexpected shift affects several titles, including the highly anticipated Don't Starve Together, Tales of the Shire, Compass Point: West, Lab Rat, Rotwood, and Thirsty Suitors.
Six Titles Removed from Netflix Games:
The streaming service's decision to drop these games reflects a strategic adjustment in its gaming portfolio. It appears Netflix is prioritizing narrative-driven games and titles based on its popular shows and movies over indie titles. This isn't the first time Netflix has cancelled games after initial announcements; Crashlands 2 faced a similar fate.
Where to Find the Cancelled Games:
Despite their removal from Netflix Games, most of the cancelled titles are still slated for release on other platforms. Don't Starve Together, initially planned as a Netflix Games mobile exclusive, will now launch on mobile via Playdigious. Rotwood remains in early access on Steam. Tales of the Shire has been delayed to early 2025. Thirsty Suitors is available on Steam and consoles. The fate of Compass Point: West and Lab Rat remains unclear.
Netflix's Shifting Gaming Strategy:
This move underscores a broader change in Netflix's gaming strategy. The company seems to be focusing on games directly tied to its existing intellectual property, as evidenced by the upcoming additions to Netflix Stories, which will feature games based on Ginny & Georgia and Sweet Magnolias.
In summary, while Netflix continues to expand its gaming offerings, its recent cancellations highlight a shift toward a more focused and IP-driven approach. Players looking for these specific titles will need to explore alternative platforms for their release.