Netflix has decided to shut down its AAA gaming studio, Team Blue, before even releasing its first game.
This move signals a shift away from big-budget gaming projects. Team Blue was based in Southern California and was part of Netflix’s recent push into the gaming industry.
High-Profile Talent Quits
The studio attracted several big gaming names. Chacko Sonny, known for his work on Overwatch, led the studio. Joseph Staten, a veteran of the Halo franchise, and Rafael Grassetti, the art director of God of War, were also part of the team.
All three have now left Netflix following the closure.
Exciting Plans Halted
Team Blue was reportedly working on a multiplatform AAA game, aiming to expand Netflix’s gaming footprint beyond mobile games.
The studio’s closure suggests some scaling back of these ambitious plans. Despite this, Netflix continues to offer over 100 mobile games to its subscribers, including popular titles like Grand Theft Auto.
Focus on Mobile and Existing Studios
Netflix will now focus more on mobile games and existing studios like Night School Studio, known for Oxenfree II.
The company has also been developing games based on popular shows and films, such as Chicken Run: Eggstraction and Squid Game: Unleashed.
What does this mean for Netflix’s gaming future? Share your thoughts!