Netflix’s Warner Bros. Acquisition Bid Raises Questions About the Future of WB Games

Netflix Downplays the Role of Warner Bros. Games in Its Proposal

Netflix’s proposed US$82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery has sparked intense debate across entertainment and gaming. Hollywood insiders worry about further erosion of theatrical cinema, while gamers are questioning what the deal could mean for Warner Bros. Games, home to franchises such as Mortal Kombat, Batman: Arkham, LEGO, and Hogwarts Legacy.

To that end, Netflix has now clarified that the gaming division is not a significant factor in its overall strategy. During a recent investor discussion, co-CEO Gregory Peters stated plainly that Warner Bros. Games did not play a meaningful role in the company’s acquisition model.

Peters acknowledged the division’s successes, noting that the division has delivered strong titles in recent years, with Hogwarts Legacy highlighted as an example. Even so, he described the gaming arm as relatively small within the broader context of the acquisition and emphasised that it was not a core consideration for the bid.

Peters added that while there are talented studios and valuable IP, these assets are not central to the negotiation. He mentioned there are opportunities within the division, but made clear that gaming is not driving the company’s acquisition strategy.

Why This Stance Comes as a Surprise

Netflix’s dismissive stance is notable given the company’s public expansion into the gaming sector. In recent years, the streaming giant has invested in mobile titles for subscribers, acquired small studios, and repeatedly discussed its intention to grow its interactive entertainment efforts. Many analysts assumed that gaining access to AAA studios would be a major strategic advantage.

Instead, the company appears to be focused almost entirely on Warner Bros.’ film and television assets. These include some of the largest media properties in the world and represent the core value Netflix aims to leverage to strengthen its streaming dominance. The statement from Peters underscores that, at least for now, Netflix sees gaming as a secondary component rather than a transformative asset in the acquisition.

This perspective raises questions about how Netflix would handle the division should the deal proceed. The company has not yet indicated whether it will maintain the studios, restructure them, or integrate them into its growing yet modest gaming initiatives.

Regulatory Review Continues as Uncertainty Remains

The acquisition remains under scrutiny as regulatory bodies evaluate its impact on competition and media consolidation. Until the deal is approved, the future remains uncertain. Netflix may eventually adjust its position depending on market conditions or internal strategy shifts, but for now, the gaming division appears to be a minimal factor in the company’s plans.

Gamers and industry watchers will be closely watching how Netflix navigates this space. Warner Bros. Games includes teams with long-standing histories and major commercial hits, and the division’s future could shift dramatically depending on the outcome of the acquisition.