Netflix Shakes Up Gaming Division With Key Hires & Layoffs

Netflix's has appointed head of games, Alain Tascan, is making swift changes to the company’s gaming division. Since becoming president of games in July, Tascan has hired Jeet Shroff, a former VP at Epic Games, for a newly created position as VP of games tech and portfolio development. Shroff’s role focuses on ensuring consistency and quality across Netflix's rapidly expanding library of games, which includes both licensed and original titles.

Shroff's hiring underscores Netflix’s recognition of the need to elevate its game offerings. Since 2021, the company has launched over 100 games, but many have fallen short of creating significant buzz. 

In addition to bringing in fresh leadership, Tascan has also implemented some cost-cutting measures. Netflix’s gaming division recently saw layoffs, with estimates ranging from under 35 employees being affected. The cuts reflect the challenges Netflix faces as it strives to find its footing in the gaming world amidst ongoing scepticism from the Wall Street community.

Despite these hurdles, Netflix remains committed to gaming. Co-CEO Greg Peters mentioned during the Q2 earnings call that game engagement had tripled in 2023. However, games still represent a small portion of Netflix's content investment. Importantly, Netflix's gaming strategy is focused on enhancing subscriber retention, which might explain why it has not yet introduced advertising within its games.