Netflix adds party games to TV with phones as controllers

Netflix is expanding beyond streaming shows and movies with the launch of party games on TV, aiming to make its gaming catalog a centerpiece of family entertainment this holiday season. The company announced that new party-style games will roll out to smart TVs, streaming devices, and consoles globally, allowing multiple players to join in using their smartphones as controllers.

Netflix TV Games

The update marks a major step in Netflix’s push to establish itself in the gaming space, following earlier releases on mobile platforms. This move brings Netflix’s interactive entertainment closer to traditional console gaming experiences, while integrating directly with the company’s growing content library.

According to Netflix, users will be able to play a variety of games that focus on multiplayer fun and social competition. These titles are designed for group play, making them ideal for gatherings and family events. Games will be accessible via the Netflix app on compatible TVs, with no need for additional hardware or downloads beyond the companion mobile app.

This expansion also aligns with Netflix’s recent experiments in cloud gaming, which allow players to stream games directly rather than installing them locally. The company previously tested this service with select users in Canada and the UK, and this new holiday rollout suggests a broader push toward mainstream availability. By combining its strong content ecosystem with accessible games, Netflix is positioning itself as a one-stop entertainment platform that spans video, interactive stories, and now live group play.

Players can expect popular titles like Netflix Heads Up! and other party-themed releases optimized for this new experience. The smartphone-as-controller approach means anyone in the room can join instantly, reinforcing the easy, inclusive nature of Netflix’s game strategy.

This move could also open the door for Netflix to adapt its own franchises into interactive TV experiences, similar to what it did with Bandersnatch. With the company’s increasing investment in gaming studios and partnerships, 2025 may represent the year Netflix finally solidifies its position as a serious competitor in interactive entertainment.

Netflix’s holiday game rollout will be available worldwide in the coming weeks, with more titles planned throughout early 2026. Users can access the feature directly from the Games row in the Netflix TV app.

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