Netflix rolls out cloud gaming beta on televisions and computers

For those keen to experience the initial set of offerings, two games are available: Oxenfree, by Night School Studio, now owned by Netflix, and Molehew's Mining Adventure, which Verdu intriguingly describes as a "gem-mining arcade game."

A myriad of devices have been greenlit to support these gaming endeavors, including Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, LG TVs, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku devices, Samsung Smart TVs, and even Walmart's Onn. And if Verdu's promise holds water, this list is only set to expand "on an ongoing basis".

Yet, like any pioneer in uncharted territory, there might be a few hitches. As we've grown accustomed to seamless video streaming from Netflix, it remains to be seen how the platform handles the demanding intricacies of game streaming. A hiccup during a Stranger Things binge might be forgivable, but in a gaming scenario? It's a completely different beast. But as sources suggest, Netflix is taking a measured approach, willing to learn, adapt, and enhance the user experience over time.

Moreover, while rival endeavors like Google's Stadia met an untimely end, Netflix seems more aligned with Microsoft's perspective, viewing cloud gaming as a complementary addition rather than the main event.

If any hiccups arise, Netflix's vast mobile gaming library, boasting over 70 titles, stands as a reliable fallback.

The waters of game streaming might be murky and fraught with challenges, yet Netflix's cautious approach, reminiscent of its initial foray into streaming, speaks volumes. Instead of launching with the pomp and fanfare that marked Google's ill-fated Stadia, Netflix opts for a soft, calculated entry, perhaps learning from past industry missteps.

It's worth noting that Netflix isn't solely relying on existing titles for this endeavor. The reports suggest an investment in original content, with a new game development studio taking shape in California.

With industry heavyweights like Overwatch executive producer Chacko Sonny and Halo veteran Joseph Staten onboard, the intent and seriousness are clear.