Microsoft Is Making a Netflix-Like Streaming Service for Video Games

We’re never leaving the couch.

Binge watching shows and movies is a fantastically fun way to waste time. But what about binge gaming? 

It may be easier than ever, as Microsoft is one step closer to bringing a Netflix-like streaming service to multiple consoles. 

The software giant unveiled its new gaming cloud division last week, headed by 20-year company man Kareem Choudhry. 

“We believe there is going to be 2 billion gamers in the world, and our goal is to reach every one of them,” Choudhry told The Verge in a recent interview.   

The new division will work towards achieving that goal. It was created in part because of the success of Xbox Game Pass, which has given users access to over 100 titles like Halo 5: Guardians and Sea of Thieves since it launched last year. 

“We continue to believe in user choice, and we also believe there’s room in the industry for a gaming subscription and that’s what we’re going to build,” Choudry said.  

Sony’s PlayStation Now streaming service also offers games via subscription. But if either Game Pass or PS Now wants to truly become the Netflix of video games, they’ll need to build a business model that attracts third-party developers. 

“What we’re doing with game pass and creating a subscription-based product, where over half the content is third-party content. I would say we’re getting started from a subscription product perspective.” 

Perhaps the most ambitious facet of Microsoft’s future plans involves streaming titles across different platforms.

“We’re looking at ways to make that content available to anyone no matter what device they’re on,” says Choudhry.  

If that happens, we may never get off the couch.

h/t: Bro Bible