Ustwo Shifts Focus to PC After Netflix Pulls Monument Valley 3

Ustwo Games Prioritizes PC Development After Netflix Removal

Ustwo Games, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Monument Valley series, is making a significant shift in its development approach. Following an unexpected removal of Monument Valley 3 from Netflix just six months after launch, the company has announced it will now prioritize PC platforms over mobile devices for future titles.

The Mobile-First Ceiling

This strategic change stems from a realization that developing games with a mobile-first mindset can limit creative potential and necessitate compromises in both product design and marketing. As CEO Maria Sayans explained to Mobile Gamer, the studio felt constrained by the perception of being primarily a mobile game developer when targeting PC and console audiences.

Monument Valley 3's Short Netflix Tenure

The catalyst for this shift was the sudden removal of Monument Valley 3 from Netflix. The game launched in December 2024 with considerable marketing support, only to be pulled from the platform six months later. Ustwo attributes this decision to a change in Netflix's content strategy, acknowledging that similar removals affected other games on the service.

This experience highlighted the risks associated with relying on platforms like Netflix and Apple Arcade for exclusive releases, particularly when those platforms retain significant control over game availability. Rather than developing primarily for these services and then porting to PC later, Ustwo now intends to build its games as multiplatform experiences, with PC serving as the initial launch point.

Building Direct Relationships

The studio's new 'PC first' approach isn't just about avoiding platform-specific constraints; it’s also driven by a desire to cultivate more direct and meaningful relationships with its audience. By launching on PC initially, Ustwo hopes to build a stronger community and receive feedback directly from players.

�In terms of platform, the shift is that we now think as PC as the base, where we can build more direct relationships with our audience and community,” Sayans stated. This suggests a greater emphasis on player engagement and fostering a dedicated fanbase – something that can be challenging when games are primarily distributed through subscription services.

Beyond Monument Valley: Ustwo's Diverse Portfolio

While Monument Valley is undoubtedly Ustwo’s most recognizable title, the studio has demonstrated considerable versatility in its game development. Beyond the award-winning puzzle series, they have created a surreal turn-based tactics game set within the human mind and an engaging photo safari experience focused on environmental conservation. This diverse portfolio showcases Ustwo's ambition to explore various genres and themes, something that may be further enhanced by their new PC-centric approach.