Netflix announced Wednesday that it plans to acquire Finland-based mobile game developer and publisher Next Games for about $72 million.
The deal, which is expected to close in the second quarter, is part of the streaming service's strategy to increase its investment in mobile gaming and increase the ways it can reach consumers through its storytelling.
"We are excited for Next Games to join Netflix as a core studio in a strategic region and key talent market, expanding our internal game studio capabilities," said Michael Verdu, Netflix's vice president of games, in a statement. "While we're just getting started in games, I am confident that together with Next Games we will be able to build a portfolio of world class games that will delight our members around the world."