Grand Theft Auto 6: Extended Look Sparks Netflix Viewership Spike, as Streamer Experiences Momentary Wobble
Netflix US viewership spiked by 50% yesterday as Rockstar debuted its Grand Theft Auto 6: Extended Look.
That's according to audience data provided to IGN by market intelligence firm Sensor Tower , when comparing Netflix's US audience to the same time on the previous day.
Compared to the streamer's average US viewership over the past 12 weeks on a Thursday, mobile use was up almost 50%. Web visitors soared by 125%, meanwhile, as countless subscribers tuned in from their PCs (perhaps sneakily watching from work or classes).
While the launch of Netflix's GTA 6 broadcast was ultimately successful, users in multiple countries reported experiencing momentary technical difficulties at the moment of its premiere. If you saw the below error screen — featuring someone's hand and a very wonky cake — you certainly were not alone. Countless users reported seeing similar across social media, including high-profile streamers, and we certainly saw the same here at IGN. Thankfully, the problem resolved itself within around 30 seconds.
"Utilizing lexicon-stirring events tied to notable IP has helped expand Netflix's appeal as an all-encompassing entertainment platform," Abe Yousef, Senior Insights Analyst said. "By aligning itself with the launch of a highly anticipated console title, Netflix is converting heightened consumer interest into re-engagement from lapsed viewers and sign-ups from non-subscribers."
Sensor Tower data has also given an update on GTA 6's pre-order numbers, with more than 4.5 million copies already sold, generating nearly $450 million in revenue — and that's before the GTA 6: Extended Look aired. (It seems likely that number has now risen significantly higher.) Of the copies sold so far, more than three quarters are on PlayStation 5.