In a bid to replicate the phenomenal success of the viral word game Wordle, streaming giant Netflix is launching its own daily word puzzle game called “TED Tumblewords.” This new mobile game, a collaborative effort with TED, is set to debut on November 19th, available for free to Netflix subscribers, with no in-app purchases or ads.
‘TED Tumblewords’ has already generated significant buzz, with reviews from Mashable and Tom’s Guide labeling it the potential “Wordle killer.” The game allows players to compete against friends, strangers, or the “TED Bot” by sliding scrambled letters to form the longest possible words, earning points for each word chain they create. Players can enjoy three unique puzzles daily and climb leaderboards to showcase their word-building skills. The ability to share scores and victories on social media could further boost the game’s popularity.
Netflix’s foray into gaming began in 2021, and since then, the company has released numerous games for its subscribers, including titles based on its popular movies and TV shows. These games have already garnered over 210 million downloads.
Wordle, created by Josh Wardle, rapidly gained popularity in 2021, with millions of daily players engaging in the five-letter word guessing game. Its viral success made it the top searched item on Google for the year and ultimately led to its acquisition by The New York Times. Wordle and similar games have significantly contributed to The New York Times’ daily visitor numbers, demonstrating the power of word puzzles in attracting and engaging audiences.
Netflix’s commitment to expanding its offerings beyond streaming includes live specials, sports rights, and, increasingly, gaming. “TED Tumblewords” has the potential to become another significant platform for Netflix to capture screen time and attract new subscribers. With its free access, competitive features, and association with the popular TED brand, the game has all the ingredients for success in the competitive world of mobile gaming.