**The Implications of Netflix’s Proposed Acquisition of Warner Bros: Focus on Gaming**

The recent wave of massive acquisitions in the entertainment industry has sparked intense discussions among investors, creators, and fans alike. Currently, one of the most talked-about proposals is Netflix’s intent to acquire the movie studio giant Warner Bros for an astounding $82.7 billion. While the implications for mainstream cinema are significant, another pressing concern is the future of Warner Bros’ gaming division, which Netflix appears to undervalue.

### Netflix’s Perspective on Warner Bros’ Gaming Assets

During a recent investors call, Netflix’s co-CEO Gregory Peters addressed questions regarding the gaming arm of Warner Bros. While he acknowledged that Warner Bros has made strides in the gaming space, he stated, “we actually didn’t attribute any value to that from the get-go because they’re relatively minor compared to the grand scheme of things.” This signals that Netflix may not prioritize the gaming division as part of their acquisition strategy, which raises eyebrows about the future of Warner Bros’ game development.

Peters did highlight the success of certain gaming properties, particularly the likes of the Harry Potter franchise, indicating a possible future integration of successful game properties into Netflix’s broader offerings. However, he reiterated that those contributions have not been included in their acquisition model.

### Current Status of Warner Bros’ Gaming Division

The recent trajectory of Warner Bros’ gaming initiative has not been stellar. The closure of Monolith Studios, best known for titles like *F.E.A.R.* and *Shadow of Mordor*, exemplifies this downturn, with the cancellation of the highly anticipated *Wonder Woman* game serving as a significant loss. Furthermore, recent titles such as *Suicide Squad* and *MultiVersus* have not performed well, contributing to a negative perception of their gaming endeavors.

### Netflix’s Challenges in Game Development

It’s important to recognize that Netflix’s efforts in the gaming realm have not been free of hurdles either. The streamer recently sold its game studio Spry Fox back to its original owners and laid off staff at Night School Studio, known for its work on *Oxenfree*. This lack of success in producing original gaming hits, aside from those based on Netflix’s own shows, raises questions about the company’s capability to manage and innovate in the gaming sector.

### Concerns for the Future

As the acquisition looms, concerns mount over the fate of Warner Bros’ gaming properties and their developers. Will integration into Netflix result in job losses, as has historically been the case with similar acquisitions? Moreover, will the studio’s creative teams be constrained to produce adaptations based solely on Netflix’s existing intellectual properties, such as *Stranger Things* or *Squid Game*, instead of developing original content?

With parallels drawn from Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which faced a prolonged regulatory review process, the future remains uncertain. It could take years before the ramifications of Netflix’s potential acquisition are fully realized.

### Conclusion

In summary, while Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros promises significant shifts in the entertainment landscape, the potential impact on the gaming division raises valid concerns. The future of Warner Bros’ gaming properties and their creative teams appears precarious, and only time will reveal how Netflix navigates this complex transition. As the merger progresses, many are left hoping for a productive outcome that benefits both developers and gamers alike.