Netflix has once again blurred the lines between television and interactive media with the release of a new mobile game tied to its acclaimed series, Black Mirror. The game, titled “Thronglets,” is directly inspired by the episode “Plaything” from Season 7, and it offers a unique gaming experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
Thronglets: A Game Born from Black Mirror
Thronglets is not just another mobile game; it is a companion piece to the Black Mirror episode “Plaything.” Developed by Netflix’s Night School Studio, this game brings to life a concept that was left abandoned in the fictional world of the show. In “Plaything,” the game Thronglets is depicted as a project that was never completed by the fictional game studio Tuckersoft. However, in reality, Netflix has fully realized this concept, allowing fans to experience it firsthand.
Gameplay and Features
Thronglets combines elements from classic games like Tamagotchi, Lemmings, Pokémon, and even the original god game Populous. You start by caring for a single Thronglet, but as the game progresses, this solo creature splits into multiple, and before long, you are managing an entire brood. The game demands you feed, educate, and manage the needs of these creatures, each of which possesses a level of consciousness and can communicate directly with you.
Moral Choices and Consequences
One of the most intriguing aspects of Thronglets is the moral dilemmas it presents. As you progress, you will face choices that impact the well-being and survival of your Thronglets. For instance, you might need to decide whether to sacrifice some Thronglets to expedite certain tasks or to prioritize their welfare. These decisions are not just gameplay mechanics; they also contribute to a personality test result that you can share on social media, adding a layer of psychological insight to the game.
Integration with Black Mirror
To fully appreciate Thronglets, it is highly recommended to watch the Black Mirror episode “Plaything” before diving into the game. This order allows you to understand the fictional backstory behind the game, enhancing your overall experience. The episode and the game are intertwined in a way that showcases interactive media at its finest, with each influencing the other in a meta and modern way.
User Experience and Accessibility
Thronglets is available to download on both Android and iOS devices, and it is free for all Netflix subscribers. The game is ad-free, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience. Once downloaded, simply sign in with your Netflix account to access the game.
Netflix’s Gaming Strategy
The release of Thronglets marks a significant step in Netflix’s gaming strategy. After a somewhat disorganized approach to its gaming offerings, Netflix is now focusing on four primary categories: narrative-driven games connected to its series, titles aimed at children, party games, and mainstream successes. Thronglets fits into the mainstream category, demonstrating Netflix’s commitment to developing games that are both engaging and aligned with its popular content.
Future Implications
As Netflix continues to expand its gaming library, games like Thronglets set a high bar for what fans can expect. With over 90 games currently in development, both internally and externally, Netflix is poised to offer a diverse range of gaming experiences that cater to various interests and age groups.
In conclusion, Thronglets is a must-play for any Black Mirror fan, offering a unique blend of gameplay mechanics and moral complexity that resonates deeply with the themes of the series. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or just looking for a new mobile experience, Thronglets is an excellent addition to Netflix’s growing portfolio of games.