Netflix has finally figured out how to get viewers off their phones with its newest horror game, but it doesn’t quite stick the landing
Netflix has released Unhinged, its latest horror game created by filmmaker David Fincher and writer-director Zach Cregger. The point-and-click horror game features an innovative control scheme where players use their own smartphone as the primary input device, replacing traditional mouse-and-keyboard or controller gameplay.
In the game, the player’s phone functions as the protagonist Ava’s device, with Ava calling her friend Claire for help throughout the experience. This design creates a narrative connection between the player’s physical phone and the in-game action as Ava evades a mysterious threat.
While Netflix has successfully introduced this novel approach to horror gaming on mobile platforms, the execution reportedly fails to fully realize the potential. The unique control mechanic addresses common point-and-click shortcomings—such as limited player agency and linear character progression—by providing direct interaction compared to traditional interfaces. However, the game’s implementation doesn’t entirely capitalize on its innovative premise, suggesting the core concept is sound but the overall experience has notable limitations.
The release marks Netflix’s continued gaming expansion, leveraging established creative talent to develop distinctive experiences that differentiate from typical mobile games while capitalizing on horror’s sustained popularity.