Netflix Launches Horror Video Game to Enhance Interactive Content

Netflix is making a spooky move to grab the attention of gamers with its first-ever horror video game set to release on June 30. The game, called Unhinged, puts players in an abandoned apartment during a hurricane, where they use their phones as controllers to interact with the spooky world on their screens. With familiar faces like Zoe Kravitz, Troy Baker, and Sadie Sink from Stranger Things, the game aims to deliver high emotions in a short half-hour playthrough.

According to Sean Krankel, Netflix’s head of narrative games, Unhinged is designed to be easy to get into but packed with intensity. The hope is that players will stumble upon the game on their Netflix homepage, get sucked in, finish it, and then be inspired to explore more of Netflix’s gaming offerings. Krankel teased that fans can expect more horror and narrative games in the future.

Netflix has been making strides in the gaming world, hiring industry veteran Alain Tascan to lead its gaming division in an effort to keep customers engaged with their ever-expanding competition. They’ve seen some success with family-friendly games like Boggle Party and have even acquired gaming studios to diversify their offerings. Now, with the release of Unhinged, Netflix is hoping to tap into the popularity of horror sensations like Backrooms and Obsession to draw in a new audience.

Director Sam Warner shared that the team behind Unhinged has been experimenting with different ideas for a couple of years, ultimately landing on a game that balances simplicity and immersion. The goal is not just to entertain, but to pave the way for more interactive storytelling experiences on the platform. With a focus on bringing original, unique games tied to both existing Netflix franchises and new worlds, Netflix is committed to expanding its gaming footprint.

As Krankel puts it, Netflix is breaking new ground in the gaming space, creating experiences that blend storytelling with interactivity in ways that haven’t been seen before. With the release of Unhinged and more games on the horizon, Netflix is ready to level up its gaming offerings and captivate audiences in a whole new way.