Netflix is ​​expanding into kids’ games with a new standalone app

Netflix is ​​launching a new standalone app for children’s games called Netflix Playground, the company said was announced on Monday. Netflix Playground is available as part of a Netflix subscription and has no ads or in-app purchases.

Netflix says the app gives kids access to an “ever-growing” library of games for kids. Netflix Playground launches with titles featuring characters from popular children’s shows.

The app, which is designed for children aged eight and under, is now available in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, the Philippines and New Zealand. It will be released worldwide on April 28. The app is available on both iOS and Android.

It can be accessed offline without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection, which the company says makes it the “perfect companion for long plane rides or grocery trips.”

For example, one game is titled “Playtime With Peppa Pig” and sees players “jump into Peppa’s world with a collection of playful activities.” There’s also a “Sesame Street” game where players practice matching memory cards or coordinating connect-the-dots. Other titles include “Let’s Color,” “Storybots,” “Bad Dinosaurs,” and more.

“We’re building a world where kids can not only watch their favorite stories, but they can step into them and interact with their favorite characters,” said John Derderian, Netflix’s VP of Animation Series + Kids & Family TV, in a press release. “We’re creating a seamless destination for discovery, learning and play. Whether it’s reuniting with Hank and the ‘Trash Truck’ crew for new adventures or making a smoothie with ‘Peppa Pig’, watching and streaming on Netflix can be the funnest and easiest part of any family’s day.”

Netflix first launched games in 2021 and had ambitious plans for the space, but has since scaled back after its titles failed to gain traction. The streaming giant has also shut down several video game studios such as Boss Fight, Spry Foxand one Studio AAA.

Late last year, Netflix broke into TV gaming with a series of new party titles meant to be played in groups, including TV versions of Tetris and Pictionary. The company also said it would prioritize cloud gamingbut has noted that it is still in the early stages of these plans.