Netflix snaps up Scanline VFX

The Future. Netflix has announced a deal to acquire visual effects house Scanline VFX. The move will be a major boost to the streaming platform’s in-house virtual production capabilities. With the recent launch of Netflix Games, the streaming giant might just be gearing up for the metaverse.

Netflex

Netflix is acquiring Scanline VFX.

• Scanline VFX is a German studio that has provided visual effects for shows like Game of Thrones and Stranger Things.
• The acquisition’s financial terms remain undisclosed, and the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2022.
• Netflix asserts that Scanline VFX will continue to operate as a standalone business and work with third parties.

VFX craze

The visual effects space is catching fire this year. Earlier this month, the 3D game-development platform Unity announced plans to acquire Weta Digital for over $1.6 billion — including all its VFX and graphics tools, 3D art creation suite, and library of assets.

Notably, Netflix launched Netflix Games this month. From there, it’s not a giant leap to see the Scanline acquisition as a stepping stone in its plan to compete in the gaming industry… and pave its way into the metaverse.