Netflix Introduces Fresh Horror Game Starring Zoë Kravitz and Sadie Sink from the Makers of Oxenfree

Netflix Introduces Fresh Horror Game Starring Zoë Kravitz and Sadie Sink from the Makers of Oxenfree

### Netflix’s New Story-Driven Horror Game: Unhinged

Netflix’s foray into the gaming industry may have encountered obstacles, but the streaming powerhouse remains steadfast, as demonstrated by the impending launch of **Unhinged**, a story-driven horror adventure game. Scheduled for debut on June 30th, this title showcases notable actors Zoë Kravitz and Sadie Sink, who take on the pivotal roles of Ava and Claire. The pair must depend on one another through cell phone interactions to outwit a sinister killer hiding in an abandoned apartment complex.

#### Gameplay Features

**Unhinged** distinctively incorporates mobile technology into the gaming adventure. Players will utilize their phones as controllers, enabling them to guide Ava through the apartment complex. The phone acts not only as a control mechanism but also as a means of communication with Claire, who is located across the street. Incoming calls or messages from Claire will activate corresponding vibrations and audio signals from the player’s phone, further immersing them in the suspenseful atmosphere of the game. The skilled voice actor Troy Baker enhances the experience as Ben, another character that players can connect with on the phone.

#### Development History

The game is the creation of Night School Games, the studio known for the celebrated title **Oxenfree**. Acquired by Netflix in 2021, Night School Games is one of the few remaining subsidiaries in Netflix’s gaming division, following a series of strategic transitions in 2024. Initially, Netflix sought to align gaming with its extensive range of streaming offerings, investing in several studios and becoming the exclusive mobile platform for renowned games like **Sonic Mania**, **Hades**, and the **Grand Theft Auto** franchise.

However, Netflix’s gaming dreams confronted the reality that the return on investment fell short of expectations. In 2024, the company terminated a Southern California studio that was in the midst of creating a traditional AAA game. This was succeeded by the closure of Boss Fight Entertainment, the reacquisition of **Cozy Grove** developer Spry Fox, and the removal of various well-liked games from its service.

#### A Shift in Strategy

In light of these difficulties, Netflix has embraced a more casual gaming strategy, focusing on party games and affiliations with its original IPs. The arrival of **Unhinged** may signify a crucial turning point—either indicating a resurgence of the compelling interactive experiences that characterized its initial ventures into gaming, such as the **Black Mirror: Bandersnatch** project, or potentially marking the concluding chapter for a distinguished developer before further alterations within the company.

As Netflix persists in navigating the changing terrain of gaming, **Unhinged** will be instrumental in evaluating the potential for narrative-driven experiences within this medium, potentially alluring audiences on both sides of the screen.