Netflix Names Mike Verdu VP of GenerAI for Games

Netflix has appointed Mike Verdu as the VP of its new Generative AI for Games division, following the closure of its AAA game development studio. Verdu emphasizes that generative AI represents a 'once in a generation' opportunity to accelerate game development and enhance player experiences, claiming it will enable both large and small teams to innovate more rapidly. Despite recent layoffs and skepticism surrounding AI in gaming, Verdu asserts that AI will act as a catalyst for creativity rather than replace human talent. Netflix's gaming efforts have seen limited engagement, with less than 1% of subscribers interacting with its games, prompting the company to explore generative AI to enhance audience engagement. Verdu's transition to this role was described as a planned move rather than a reaction to recent challenges within Netflix Games. The company's broader strategy continues to view gaming as a means to bolster subscriber retention in its streaming services.