When Netflix launched its mobile game collection in November 2021, I had a hard time understanding what the point was. Consisting of a couple of simple casual games, and a previously released Stranger Things tie-in, it was hard to be impressed by the offerings on display.
Now, one year later, the game lineup has been expanded to more than 40 games, including some indie favorites and ports of popular PC releases. What makes these games uniquely special is that, similar to Apple Arcade, and Google’s Play Pass, they are entirely free from ads and in-app purchases. Long time Galactigeek readers will remember how much we loathe ads and in-app purchases. The upside to this of course, is that you won’t find games that are otherwise enjoyable but riddled with progression and pacing issues that arise from squeezing every penny out of the player.
Let’s dive in and explore 6 of the gems that I’ve discovered on Netflix games so far.
1 – Skies of Chaos
This charming and wickedly polished vertical shooter is packed to the brim with personality. Everything from the animated cutscenes, to the detailed sprite animation, to the punchy sound effects, speaks to the great production value.
2 – Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales
A pretty typical gem matching battler, this is one in a long string of licensed Stranger Things games produced by Netflix. What makes this stand apart from the crowd is the fair progression mechanics. Not once did I feel like I was stuck waiting for the next timed loot drop to be able to progress in the games various modes.
3 – Knittens
My wife enjoys playing this game more than I do. Ok, between you and me, I don’t mind playing a few rounds every now and then. Knittens falls into one of the most populated categories of mobile games in existence, the match 3 puzzler. What separates Knittens from Candy Crush and the rest of the pack, however, is that there aren’t any in-app purchases. This means that the bonuses are aplenty, and you’re not constantly nagged to purchase powerups to complete unfairly designed levels. Plus, who doesn’t like cute cats? A cozy timewaster indeed.
4 – Shatter Remastered
This techno inspired brick breaker game has a unique twist, wind. In addition to controlling the paddle, you can create a current that either sucks or blows on the ball, which allows for a level of nuance and control that you won’t find in most other Arkanoid clones. Combine that with clever boss battles and a great soundtrack, and you have a game that will keep you entertained for hours.
5 – Oxenfree
After seeing Oxenfree land on Steam and consoles, garnering heaps of praise, I was surprised to see it land an exclusive mobile deal with Netflix. This modern take on the adventure genre has a unique and immersive dialog system that forces you to engage with the story like nothing I’ve seen before.
6 – Into the Breach
This is the big daddy of the Netflix games so far. Developed by the acclaimed studio behind FTL: Faster than Light, Into the Breach became a fast hit when it was released on PC, Mac and Switch. This is a flawless port of a fantastic tactical strategy game. I expect to sink hours into this one for sure.
