David Bridges
Netflix has officially launched an exciting new game titled Thronglets, which draws inspiration from episode seven of the latest season of the critically acclaimed series Black Mirror. This innovative game combines elements reminiscent of both Tamagotchi and Pokémon, yet it delves into dark, existential themes that resonate deeply with the narrative style of the show. Thronglets was developed by Night School, a talented studio known for its previous work on Oxenfree, which Netflix acquired back in 2021. Sean Krankel, the founder of Night School Studio, expressed the synergy between their narrative gameplay explorations and Netflix’s commitment to supporting diverse storytelling, making this collaboration a perfect match.
Within the Black Mirror universe, Thronglets plays a pivotal role in the storyline of episode seven. This episode is set in the same universe as Netflix’s interactive movie Bandersnatch, introducing players to a long-lost game created by Tuckersoft, the gaming studio featured in the film, which has been dormant since its cancellation in 1994. In Thronglets, players must hatch, evolve, and nurture unique creatures known as Thronglets. This involves bathing, feeding, and entertaining them as they multiply at a rapid pace reminiscent of gremlins. However, Netflix highlights that the game transcends mere virtual pet management; it serves as a platform for exploring the complexities of human nature and the repercussions of our digital obsessions.
As you cultivate groups of Thronglets, collectively referred to as a Throng, players have the opportunity to unlock exclusive video fragments from a documentary entitled Ritman Retrospective. These engaging videos feature a series of insightful interviews with Tuckersoft’s chief, Mohan Thakur (played by Asim Chaudhry), and the game’s creator, Colin Ritman (portrayed by Will Poulter). At the conclusion of the experience, players receive a personality test result that can be shared across their social media platforms. Thronglets, similar to Netflix’s other gaming offerings, is available for free on both iOS and Android for any user with an active account. This launch follows the departure of the company’s former gaming chief, Mike Verdu, and comes in the wake of Netflix’s strategic shift towards focusing on party and narrative-driven games. The highly anticipated new season of Black Mirror is now available for streaming.
Ethan Carter
Brandon Fletcher
