Anime Streaming: Netflix Creates a Battleground
Netflix can be considered as a mammoth among streaming services. That much is pretty obvious considering they shook off a $17 billion loss without much trouble, whereas there were streaming giants such as Viacom, Roku who were worth less than $17 billion at the time. However, there is one area where Netflix is still not making much progress, and that is anime. Meanwhile, their competition is growing quite strong.
Netflix and anime
Netflix has over 50 original anime. They have been at it for years, but only a few of their shows are above average. Some of them are really good, but one would expect much better contents from a platform like Netflix. "Devilman Crybaby", "Violet Evergarden", "Castlevania" can be considered as their best works. And the funny thing is, "Castlevania" is not even acknowledged by many as an anime. Most of Netflix's original anime appeal only to a small group of viewers while their unorthodox animation and art style repels a lot of viewers. But Netflix has a huge collection of top tier classic anime that gains and keeps a lot of subscriptions. And recently, they acquired the license to stream movies made by Studio Ghibli, which is a significant milestone.
How did it affect the status quo?
Netflix appeared as a major threat (it still is) to previously existing anime streaming services like Crunchyroll and Funimation, but these services have survived quite easily, thanks to Netflix's poor performance in original anime production. These services continue to produce and stream great anime. However, Amazon Prime Video is generating some heat now. They acquired the license to stream "Vinland Saga" as their exclusive in North America and Australia. This show is being hailed as one of the best titles of 2019. This clearly shows that Amazon Prime Video means business. This comparatively newer streaming service is following Netflix into entering the world of anime streaming.
Where do things stand as of now?
Netflix has an overwhelming advantage over the other streaming services with a massive 158.3 million subscribers. And with the impressive list of anime they have to offer, they clearly have an edge over their competition. So, it is unlikely that they will be pushed at all by rivals any time soon. They have to bring out their A-game to beat Netflix.
What does it mean for the viewers?
It means the viewers get to enjoy more quality content. Competition can result into even better outcomes at times. This new war can definitely add more in terms of quality anime.