Netflix Closes Studio Behind Squid Game Mobile Title

Boss Fight Entertainment shuts down as Netflix shifts focus to broader gaming categories.

Netflix has officially closed Boss Fight Entertainment, the studio responsible for developing the mobile game “Squid Game: Unleashed.” The decision reflects a strategic pivot in the company’s gaming division, which will now prioritize party, narrative, kids, and mainstream titles. Co-founder David Rippy confirmed the closure in a LinkedIn post, expressing gratitude for the time spent under Netflix’s ownership. The move comes two years after Netflix acquired the studio to expand its interactive content offerings.

Studio Closure and Staff Reactions

Boss Fight Entertainment was originally acquired in 2022 as part of Netflix’s broader push into video games. The studio developed two titles for the platform: “Netflix Stories” and “Squid Game: Unleashed,” both of which will remain available despite the shutdown. David Luehmann, a director of game development at the studio, also acknowledged the closure, noting the end of a decade-long journey. Neither Netflix nor its gaming division provided immediate public comment on the decision.

The closure highlights the challenges of integrating traditional game development into a streaming-focused business model. While Netflix has experimented with interactive content, its gaming ambitions remain in flux. The company’s leadership appears to be refining its approach to better align with its core entertainment strategy. Staff reactions suggest a mix of disappointment and appreciation for the opportunity to work within Netflix’s ecosystem.

Strategic Shift in Gaming Focus

Netflix named Alain Tascan as president of games last year, signaling a renewed commitment to shaping its gaming portfolio. The company now plans to concentrate on genres that complement its existing content, such as narrative-driven experiences tied to popular shows. Co-CEO Greg Peters cited “Squid Game: Unleashed” as an example of the type of game Netflix aims to produce moving forward. This suggests a preference for titles that extend the storytelling universe of its original programming.

The shift away from traditional studio operations may reflect a desire to streamline development and reduce overhead. By focusing on games that enhance viewer engagement, Netflix hopes to create a more cohesive entertainment experience. The strategy also positions the company to compete in a crowded gaming market without relying on large-scale standalone titles. Future releases are likely to be closely tied to Netflix’s content catalog.

Remaining Titles and Future Outlook

Despite the studio’s closure, Boss Fight’s existing games will continue to be accessible on the Netflix platform. This ensures that users can still engage with interactive content based on familiar franchises. The company’s evolving strategy may involve partnerships or internal development teams rather than maintaining separate studios. How Netflix balances creative ambition with operational efficiency will shape its gaming trajectory in the coming years.

The closure of Boss Fight Entertainment marks a turning point in Netflix’s approach to gaming. While the company remains committed to interactive content, its focus is shifting toward formats that align more directly with its streaming model. As the industry continues to evolve, Netflix’s next steps will be closely watched by both media and gaming analysts.