Netflix's Mike Verdu appointed as VP of Generative AI for Games

Mike Verdu has unveiled his new role at Netflix: vice president of Generative AI (GenAI) for Games.

While specific details about the position remain limited, Verdu shared on LinkedIn his aim to steer a transformative moment in game development using generative AI.

Information about Verdu's transition first came to light in June. Following this, it was confirmed that Alain Tascan, a former Epic Games executive, would be assuming the role of president of Netflix Games.

Verdu addressed speculation regarding these changes in a LinkedIn post, clarifying that both his new position and Tascan's hiring were parts of a "planned transition."

Discussing the impact of generative AI on gaming, Verdu expressed that it allows delivery teams to operate more swiftly and augments the potential of smaller teams.

"This technology is often met with apprehension, but my passion for game-making sees it as a gateway to unprecedented player experiences," he stated. "We will need to adapt, but when hasn't our industry overcome such challenges?"

For several years now, Netflix has been substantially investing in the gaming sector, particularly after bringing Verdu on board in 2021.

The streaming giant has acquired numerous gaming studios and established two in-house studios. However, they recently announced the closure of their California studio that focused on AAA game development.

Currently, Netflix's game offerings are mobile-exclusive, amassing over 210 million downloads for their more than 100 titles by September.