If you’re a fan of interactive storytelling, you might want to pay attention to the latest updates regarding Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. Though it was removed from Netflix earlier this year as part of their shift away from interactive programming, it seems there’s a renewed possibility of choosing Stefan Butler’s ’80s video game adventure again. According to Charlie Brooker, the creator of Black Mirror, something intriguing could be on the horizon.
In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Brooker addressed speculation that Bandersnatch may soon make a comeback—perhaps framed as a game this time around. He hinted, “Reports of its death were exaggerated. Watch this space, things are brewing.” It sounds like he believes interactive narratives have a future within the medium.
Brooker’s comments imply a convergence of narrative programming and gaming. For instance, he mentioned “Plaything,” an episode from the latest Black Mirror season focused on Thronglets, a fictional video game bent on global domination. Complementing the episode, Netflix released a tie-in game that Brooker described as compatible with a ’90s vibe. “There are bespoke video clips you can unlock,” he said, adding that his background as a video game journalist fuels his excitement for these projects.
Interestingly, “Plaything” ties back to Bandersnatch with Will Poulter reprising his character Colin Ritman. Brooker noted, “Will Poulter showing up as a living Easter egg showed me that we can continue to break the format to bring back characters or revisit worlds.” He shared his admiration for how Netflix executed Bandersnatch, calling it “startling” and likening the experience to a magic trick.
Brooker remains open to creating more interactive episodes in the future. “I had a whole idea for an interactive sequel to Bandersnatch,” he revealed. He emphasized that any interactive form should have a strong narrative basis, as it shifts the viewer’s experience dramatically.
If you’re curious about other Black Mirror content, all seasons except for the interactive special Bandersnatch are currently streaming on Netflix.
What is the potential for a new interactive episode of Black Mirror? Charlie Brooker has expressed interest in the format, yet emphasizes the need for a compelling narrative to justify its use within a story. This suggests that while audiences may get a chance to engage interactively again, the quality of the storytelling will always come first.
Could Black Mirror: Bandersnatch return to Netflix? Yes, Charlie Brooker mentioned that it’s not gone, hinting at a possible future return that combines gaming elements.
What is “Plaything” about in Black Mirror? This episode dives into a game called Thronglets that threatens the world, with a tie-in game released by Netflix enhancing the viewing experience.
Are interactive shows like Bandersnatch becoming more common? While not mainstream yet, there’s growing interest in blending interactive storytelling with traditional narrative formats, as observed by Brooker’s recent projects.
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