Netflix is expanding into kids’ games with a brand new stand-alone app

Netflix is launching a brand new stand-alone app for teenagers’ games called Netflix Playground, the corporate announced on Monday. Netflix Playground is obtainable as a part of a Netflix subscription, and doesn’t have any ads or in-app purchases.

Netflix says the app gives children access to an “ever-growing” library of games for teenagers. Netflix Playground is launching with titles featuring characters from popular kids’ shows.

The app, which is designed for youngsters ages eight and under, is now available within the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, the Philippines, and Recent Zealand. It should roll out worldwide on April 28. The app is obtainable on each iOS and Android.

It might probably be accessed offline and not using a mobile or Wi-Fi connection, which the corporate says makes it the “perfect companion for long airplane rides or grocery trips.”

For instance, one game is titled “Playtime With Peppa Pig,” and sees players “jump into Peppa’s world with a set of playful activities.” There’s also a “Sesame Street” game where players practice matching with memory cards or coordination with connect-the-dots. Other titles include “Let’s Color,” “Storybots,” “Bad Dinosaurs,” and more.

“We’re constructing a world where kids cannot only watch their favorite stories, they’ll step inside them and interact with their favorite characters,” said John Derderian, Netflix vice chairman of Animation Series + Kids & Family TV, in a press release. “We’re making a seamless destination for discovery, learning, and play. Whether it’s reuniting with Hank and the ‘Trash Truck’ crew for brand spanking new adventures or making a smoothie with ‘Peppa Pig,’ watching and playing on Netflix will be the fun and easiest a part of every family’s day.”

Netflix first launched games in 2021 and had ambitious plans for the space, but has since dialed them back after its titles failed to realize traction. The streaming giant has also shut down several video game studios like Boss Fight, Spry Fox, and an AAA studio.

Late last yr, Netflix forayed into TV gaming with a slate of recent party titles meant to be played in groups, including TV versions of Tetris and Pictionary. The corporate has also said it would prioritize cloud gaming, but has noted that it’s still within the early stages of those plans.