Netflix has scored its biggest gaming release to date, adding Rockstar Games’ iconic Grand Theft Auto trilogy to its streaming platform. Starting December 14th, Netflix subscribers will have access to enhanced versions of GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas on mobile.
This major launch provides Netflix’s gaming service with substantial name recognition and credibility associated with one of gaming’s most beloved franchises. According to Rockstar, the entire trilogy has sold over 215 million copies worldwide across various platforms.
Bringing that level of popular content to Netflix mirrors their strategy with TV shows and films – secure established hits to drive engagement. With mobile gaming still in its initial growth phase for the company, a triple shot of GTA gives them an ideal opportunity to demonstrate gaming’s value to subscribers.
What Games Are Included in the Netflix GTA Trilogy Package?
Specifically, Netflix will be adding Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. This includes remasters of 3 seminal GTA entries:
- GTA 3 – The 2001 title that cemented GTA’s groundbreaking open-world 3D gameplay
- GTA Vice City – The fan-favorite ‘80s-themed 2002 Miami installment
- GTA San Andreas – Arguably the series’ most iconic 2004 entry that further expanded the GTA universe
All 3 titles helped define GTA’s signature blend of gripping narrative, dark humor and providing players freedom to explore sprawling urban environments. Upgrades in this remastered package include improved visuals in 4K resolution along with platform-specific enhancements.
The trilogy will be accessible directly within the Netflix mobile application for Android and iOS without any ads or in-app purchases. Members can look forward to hours of acclaimed gameplay and exploration through GTA’s acclaimed satirical lens.
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Netflix’s Impressive Gaming Lineup Continues Expanding
While details on usage rates are unavailable, Netflix remains dedicated to bringing top-tier gaming content onto its streaming platform. They are strategically targeting titles from major developers and publishers to continually improve gaming’s value proposition as part of a Netflix membership.
Recent major game launches have included:
- Kentucky Route Zero – Critically acclaimed indie adventure title
- Spiritfarer – Charming indie management sim centered around death/acceptance
- Dead Cells – Rogue-lite action game with deep combat system
- Immortality – Narrative-driven FMV game from Her Story creator Sam Barlow
And Netflix has made it clear this is just the start of major content partnerships in the gaming space. In 2023, they already have deals in place to add the following exclusive games:
- Katana Zero – Stylish neo-noir action platformer
- Death’s Door – Acclaimed indie action-adventure featuring soul-reaping crow
- Hades – Rogue-like dungeon crawler hailed as an all-time great indie game
Combined with gaming’s lack of ads and microtransactions due to the Netflix subscription model, they have clearly banked on quality over quantity to bring added value to their members.
Optimizing the GTA Trilogy for Mobile Gameplay
In securing Grand Theft Auto: The Definitive Trilogy, Netflix worked closely with Rockstar Games to optimize these advanced remasters specifically for mobile devices. Enhancements include:
- Custom touch controls designed specifically mobile devices
- Support for various control schemes so players can choose what works for them
- Adjustable sizing and interface layouts to enhance playability on phones/tablets
The entire trilogy also utilizes Rockstar Games’ proprietary RAGE engine to enable greater fidelity and more immersive mobile gameplay overall.
Netflix will likely have access to detailed mobile gameplay performance analytics for the trilogy. These insights can further improve development of future gaming content for their subscribers.
The launch on December 14th kicks off what could be a pivotal week for Netflix’s gaming efforts. Securing GTA gives them a huge new level of credibility and visibility that could greatly accelerate growth in engagement for mobile gaming.
