Netflix doubles down on gaming with latest studio acquisition

A year on form launching its games service, Netflix has announced the acquisition of Spry Fox, an independent gaming studio that focuses on developing original games with a feel good tone. The company becomes Netflix’s sixth in-house games studio.

In a statement, Netflix said: “Spry Fox is an award-winning independent studio focused on cosy, original games. Their unique approach to game development and success with titles like Triple Town, Alphabear and Cozy Grove will help accelerate our creative development in a beloved genre and add to the growing variety of Netflix’s games.”

Daniel Cook

Daniel Cook, co-founder of Spry Fox, said: “When David Edery and I founded Spry Fox 12 years ago, our goal was to create a place where kind, creative people could make beautiful, original games in a supportive environment that brought happiness to the people who played them. After many heartfelt conversations, we are all excited about joining Netflix as an in-house game studio and building amazing games together.”

Cook added: “I’m proud of the foundational work we’ve been doing to build out our in-house creative capacity so that we can deliver the best possible games experience — including no ads and no in-app purchases — to our members.”

Netflix currently has 35 games available to its subscribers at no additional cost – with 55 more in development. While take up of its gaming services is still relatively low, the Spry Fox acquisition is an indication that Netflix sees gaming as a key growth segment.